Abstract
The Estrildian is a magazine of the
Estrildid Society. It was established in
the United Kingdom in 1991 for the
welfare, study and breeding of estrildids
in captivity. The original concept
of the founders of The Estrildid
Society was to cover only those waxbills
belonging to the genus Estrilda,
but this was expanded to cover all
estrildids . There has been some discussion
regarding whether or not this
magazine should cover finches outside
this group, such as the Cuban
finches (Grassquits). No matter which
way this goes, this excellent new
society provides much needed information
on the many estrildid finches
now found in captivity. Al though this
society is based in England, the maga-
very possible that those finches now
found in our aviaries may be the
founding stock for upcoming generations.
The Estrildian not only gives excellent
information on individual finch
species , it also provides details on
many related subjects. These subjects
range from how to cultivate live food
(insects, larvae, etc.) for our finches to
which species are compatible with
each other.
This is an excellent magazine for the
beginner or for those experienced
finch breeders wishing to branch out
into new species . A beautiful color
illustration of an Orange-cheeked
Waxbill graces the cover. This illustration
was done by Howard Robinson
who also includes excellent black and
white finch illustrations throughout
the magazine. Of interest to me was
the "Member's Sales and Wants" section
in the back of the magazine. The
wants far outweighed the sales which
illustrates the great need to learn how
to successfully reproduce these birds
for many generations. This magazine
is a great stai1 to filling this need.
Subscriptions for The E.>trildian are
$45.00 (U.S. currency - personal
checks accepted) for U.S . aviculntrists.
The checks should be made out to
The Estrildid Society and sent to
Malcolm Story, 29 Sherburn Park
Drive , Rowland Gill, Tyne & Wear,
United Kingdom, NE39 IQU. •