BIRD Enthusiasts were were spoilt for choice at Beaudesert Parrot and Finch Association’s annual bird sale.
Crowds flocked to Beaudesert Showgrounds on Sunday to view about 60 stalls selling birds and items such as perches, food and suspended aviaries.
BPFA president Anne Da Costa said the event was one of the biggest bird sales in south-east Queensland.
“Everybody says it’s the best because we have a good variety or birds, products and supplies,” she said.
“I think people enjoy the laid-back atmosphere we, and the sellers, bring to the venue.”
Ms Da Costa said this year, which marked the 13th annual bird sale, the club had about 20 more stalls than last year.
She said despite the concern they had less birds on sale due to abrupt weather changes from a cold snap to humidity, she was happy with the number of attendees at the sale.
“We had a mild breeding season and the birds predict what they’re going to do,” she said.
“Even though there are less birds that previous years, the turnout of people is great.”
Ms Da Costa said the day was about taking advantage of the sale of birds and supplies and enjoying the social gathering.
“Everyone is here truly for the passion – it’s a fun hobby for us all,” she said.
Everyone is here truly for the passion – it’s a fun hobby for us all
- President Anne Da Costa
Ms Da Costa said the event was the club’s major fundraiser which brought the birding community together annually.
“The funds go back into the club to keep it running but when we hold the bird sale, we make sure we support the locals,” she said.
“There are a whole heap of bird clubs around who come along and spend the day with us.”
Bird enthusiasts John and Vicki Vout said this was their second time to attend the bird sale, walking away with several Finches.
“It’s a good day out to come to the bird sale and the sellers are friendly,” Ms Vout said.
Mr Vout said he found a good range of birds while meeting new people.
“You can also see network with other breeders and socialise with them here which you wouldn’t normally meet anywhere else,” he said.
“Today we bought firetails, plumhead finches and diamond firetails which are all Australian native finches.”