The National Finch and Softbill Society encourages local bird clubs
to affiliate. Together, the NFSS and local clubs work together in promoting the
keeping and breeding of finches and softbills on both a National and a local
level. The NFSS promotes affiliated clubs and their events, to help attract
members and participants from within and outside the local region, bringing the
finch and softbill community together.
Affiliated clubs may elect to host an NFSS-Sanctioned show to introduce the
hobby to beginners, educate their membership and their community about the
various species kept in aviculture, and encourage breeding programs to
perpetuate and improve the species in aviculture. All NFSS Panel Judges have
completed the rigorous and widely respected NFSS Apprentice Judge Program. These
experienced judges use a keen eye, the NFSS written standards, and polished
communication skills to provide spectators throughout the country
with a truly educational experience covering some of the most delightful species
at any bird show. Beginning and experienced breeders alike will find guidance
for their breeding programs that will help improve the species in aviculture
with each generation.
The standards by which the judges evaluate the birds can be found in the NFSS
Judges' Handbook and Official Standards. Also included in the handbook are the
NFSS Show Classifications, an extensive categorized listing of finch and
softbill species frequently seen at NFSS exhibitions.
A list of NFSS affiliated bird shows and other affiliated bird events is
published in the NFSS Journal and on the website. A complete list of NFSS Panel
judges with their contact information also appears in both places.
In
appreciation and support of finch and softbill breeders
and fanciers
who share their birds via bird exhibitions, NFSS has established the Champion
Exhibitor, Exhibitor
of Excellence and Champion
Bird awards. The NFSS respectfully recognizes exhibitors
who have earned these awards for their annual and lifetime
achievements at the National Finch and Softbill Society
General Meeting, held in conjunction with the National
Cage Bird Show.
It
is our hope that finch and softbill breeders and enthusiasts
can continue to share our wide variety of birds through
the inspirational and far-reaching exposure of the NFSS
exhibition. If you are interested in learning more about
why exhibition is an important part of the breeding
program and how to get started, please peruse our Introduction
to Showing Finches and Softbills.
