PH>that we were familiar with from other breeders whom we knew had good
PH>strong bloodlines. We bred for confirmation and also for personality,
PH>to improve our own stock.
PH>Seems to me an ethical bird breeder would do the same things we used
to PH>do with the dogs.
Exactly. If one is breeding for show stock, then the breeder should BUY
from other show people, preferably retired champs or offspring thereof
(unfortunately, there is no pedigree registry system for show birds, so
you have to take the breeder/seller's word for such things right now).
If one is breeding for pet quality stock, then the breeder should look
for good health, and good personality in the parent birds. Price REALLY
shouldn't enter into the issue at all.
I realize that some people can't afford to spend big bucks on buying
birds. But I have always believed, and will continue to do so, that if
you can't afford to get the good stuff to start out, you most likely
can't afford to give it good care later on, and thus, you probably
shouldn't have it to begin with. Harsh perhaps, but it's my opinion.
PH>It doesn't surprise me that a person would breed "cheap" birds, and it
PH>makes me wonder if this lady knows anything about heredity, breed
PH>standards, and genetics.
In the case of the local person I referred to, she has NO clue about any
of the above topics. She cares about the bottom line--what she can make
off the birds. Puppy-mill mentality, all the way, unfortunately. I'd
LOVE to see the health department shut her down (she has over 140 birds
just in her *living room*, stacked to the ceiling of a standard
bungalow-sized house). 
--Kathy
 * SLMR 2.1a * Truck Pulls: for people who don't understand WWF.
--- Silver Xpress Mail System       
---------------