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Program Presentations
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Speaker Bio
The following PowerPoint programs - presented by Linda S. Rubin are
available. To inquire about these or other programs, or to schedule a
presentation, fill out the Contact Form and include your name,
organization/event city, state, date(s) preferred, email address, and a
daytime/evening contact phone number.
available. To inquire about these or other programs, or to schedule a
presentation, fill out the Contact Form and include your name,
organization/event city, state, date(s) preferred, email address, and a
daytime/evening contact phone number.
| Aves Communications & Promotions |
| Speaker Schedule |
Contact Form
Program 1
NEW! Program 2
| LINE BREEDING PRACTICES in PSITTACINE HUSBANDRY |
Presented at the American Federation of Aviculture convention in San Francisco, this program is a complete introduction to the
dynamics of livestock husbandry principles that focus on building viable, healthy bloodlines of superior breeding stock while
maintaining and improving bloodlines over time. It focuses on linebreeding applications that include the setting of desirable
traits, building family characteristics and creating a quality breeding stud geared for the longterm. It is a linebreeding program
on genetics without all the complications of learning the language of genetics. It speaks to the aviculturist whose longterm
objective is to responsibly build a healthy robust stud, and maintain and improve it over time - whether the goal is for improved
husbandry breeding practices to produce healthy, superior breeding and pet stock – to peak optimization of color mutations – or
even to enhance exhibition lines. Topics include: examining the differences between linebreeding and avoidable inbreeding,
setting phenotypical (visual) traits and genotypical traits (clutch size, fertility, etc.), discussing linebreeding techniques to build
and fortify strains, obtaining genetically desirable breeding stock, dispersing progeny to protect the gene pool, signs of
deterioration of the stud and preventive measurers, avoiding lethal factors (immune-compromised, handicapped, dead-in-shell
chicks), selective controls (limiting numbers produced, closed banding and registration of stock), and the ethics of producing
healthy breeding stock and quality companion parrots for the future. Inquire here ...
dynamics of livestock husbandry principles that focus on building viable, healthy bloodlines of superior breeding stock while
maintaining and improving bloodlines over time. It focuses on linebreeding applications that include the setting of desirable
traits, building family characteristics and creating a quality breeding stud geared for the longterm. It is a linebreeding program
on genetics without all the complications of learning the language of genetics. It speaks to the aviculturist whose longterm
objective is to responsibly build a healthy robust stud, and maintain and improve it over time - whether the goal is for improved
husbandry breeding practices to produce healthy, superior breeding and pet stock – to peak optimization of color mutations – or
even to enhance exhibition lines. Topics include: examining the differences between linebreeding and avoidable inbreeding,
setting phenotypical (visual) traits and genotypical traits (clutch size, fertility, etc.), discussing linebreeding techniques to build
and fortify strains, obtaining genetically desirable breeding stock, dispersing progeny to protect the gene pool, signs of
deterioration of the stud and preventive measurers, avoiding lethal factors (immune-compromised, handicapped, dead-in-shell
chicks), selective controls (limiting numbers produced, closed banding and registration of stock), and the ethics of producing
healthy breeding stock and quality companion parrots for the future. Inquire here ...
NEW! Program 3
| The FUTURE of the COCKATIEL Why many "good birds" won't reproduce, lay fertile eggs, rear young to term, or live a full lifespan ... |
An overview of the current problems that effect the overall health, fertility, and longevity of cockatiels today, and how we are
responsible for shaping their future as an aviary and companion bird. This cutting edge program, new to discussion in the
avicultural community, closely examines the prerequisites of how to breed responsibly for the genetic betterment of the
species so that cockatiels can successfully reproduce full clutches, rear their own young to term, and live as long as they were
intended, rather than the shorter lifespan greater numbers are now experiencing. Topics also draw on lessons learned from
other commonly bred species that have previously suffered genetically due to the lack of knowledge and forethought from the
community as a whole. There is still time for cockatiel breeders to correct their breeding programs and stop the increasing
incidence that is now affecting the cockatiel gene pool - including hens refusing to fully sit some of the newer mutations - to
birds dying at an early age. What are the warning signs of potentially poor parents and poor parenting skills? Why is the
cockatiel experiencing infertility, and degradation of the stock? Show standards ove rthe past 30 years have not dealt with
these very real genetic issues, including the morbidly large or obese cockatiels at the extreme end of the scale, and rewarding
"giantism." Learn how this affects cockatiels directly from the author of the Cockatiel Show Standard for two organizations,
and what it predicts for the future. More than just a few avicutlurists must share in this knowledge; it will take the cockatiel
community as a whole to effect change. Inquire here ...
responsible for shaping their future as an aviary and companion bird. This cutting edge program, new to discussion in the
avicultural community, closely examines the prerequisites of how to breed responsibly for the genetic betterment of the
species so that cockatiels can successfully reproduce full clutches, rear their own young to term, and live as long as they were
intended, rather than the shorter lifespan greater numbers are now experiencing. Topics also draw on lessons learned from
other commonly bred species that have previously suffered genetically due to the lack of knowledge and forethought from the
community as a whole. There is still time for cockatiel breeders to correct their breeding programs and stop the increasing
incidence that is now affecting the cockatiel gene pool - including hens refusing to fully sit some of the newer mutations - to
birds dying at an early age. What are the warning signs of potentially poor parents and poor parenting skills? Why is the
cockatiel experiencing infertility, and degradation of the stock? Show standards ove rthe past 30 years have not dealt with
these very real genetic issues, including the morbidly large or obese cockatiels at the extreme end of the scale, and rewarding
"giantism." Learn how this affects cockatiels directly from the author of the Cockatiel Show Standard for two organizations,
and what it predicts for the future. More than just a few avicutlurists must share in this knowledge; it will take the cockatiel
community as a whole to effect change. Inquire here ...
Program 4
| CAPTIVATING COCKATIEL MUTATIONS FROM AROUND the WORLD |
Presented at the Australian International Cockatiel Symposium in Brisbane and Sydney, Kaytee Great American Bird Show, and
many other venues, here is a fascinating look at the plethora of colorful hues, shades, patterns and unusual combinations in the
world of cockatiel color mutations and the latest Rares ... Rare color mutations and their myriad combinations are impacting
cockatiel circles both on and off the show-bench at a challenging rate. The formerly known "rares" of yesterday are increasingly
spotted at bird fairs, inscribed in show classifications, and rooted throughout classified advertisements, with a growing list of
contemporary mutations that continue to surprise. No longer are aviculturists confined to a mere handful of mutations.
Cockatiels have arrived! A delight to the eye, this program is designed for both the budding cockatiel enthusiast and the
seasoned breeder. It demystifies the topic of color breeding by explaining the properties of primary mutations, popular crosses,
and the rarer colors. This PowerPoint program includes the latest colorful cockatiel mutations, discussing their country of origin,
modes of inheritance, and simple explanations on how pigments work together, with tips on producing desirable color depth and
markings for each mutation. It touches on closed banding, record keeping, pedigrees, exhibition, foundation stock and gene
pools. Both entertaining and a delight to watch, by the end of the program - you will know your cockatiel mutations! Inquire
here ...
many other venues, here is a fascinating look at the plethora of colorful hues, shades, patterns and unusual combinations in the
world of cockatiel color mutations and the latest Rares ... Rare color mutations and their myriad combinations are impacting
cockatiel circles both on and off the show-bench at a challenging rate. The formerly known "rares" of yesterday are increasingly
spotted at bird fairs, inscribed in show classifications, and rooted throughout classified advertisements, with a growing list of
contemporary mutations that continue to surprise. No longer are aviculturists confined to a mere handful of mutations.
Cockatiels have arrived! A delight to the eye, this program is designed for both the budding cockatiel enthusiast and the
seasoned breeder. It demystifies the topic of color breeding by explaining the properties of primary mutations, popular crosses,
and the rarer colors. This PowerPoint program includes the latest colorful cockatiel mutations, discussing their country of origin,
modes of inheritance, and simple explanations on how pigments work together, with tips on producing desirable color depth and
markings for each mutation. It touches on closed banding, record keeping, pedigrees, exhibition, foundation stock and gene
pools. Both entertaining and a delight to watch, by the end of the program - you will know your cockatiel mutations! Inquire
here ...
Program 5
| CARING & LIVING with COCKATIELS |
Presented at the 2008 Canadian National Show in Toronto, Canada; enjoy a complete overview of Cockatiel Culture and
understand the decision-making criteria on whether to own, breed, or even exhibit cockatiels, a program that truly
examines in detail, the many dimensions of ownership. Topic discussion includes: Natural Characteristics, Normal Behavior,
Interaction with other species, Health Care, Diet & Nutrition, Housing & Toys, Daily Care & Maintenance, Supervision,
Training & Exercise, Egg-laying Behaviors in Pet Hens, Hobby Breeding (deliberate or accidental!), the Breeding Cycle,
Providing Daily Companionship, and Long-term Committment. Geared for both the novice and experienced owner.
Inquire here ...
understand the decision-making criteria on whether to own, breed, or even exhibit cockatiels, a program that truly
examines in detail, the many dimensions of ownership. Topic discussion includes: Natural Characteristics, Normal Behavior,
Interaction with other species, Health Care, Diet & Nutrition, Housing & Toys, Daily Care & Maintenance, Supervision,
Training & Exercise, Egg-laying Behaviors in Pet Hens, Hobby Breeding (deliberate or accidental!), the Breeding Cycle,
Providing Daily Companionship, and Long-term Committment. Geared for both the novice and experienced owner.
Inquire here ...
Program 6
| COCKATIEL HUSBANDRY |
Presented at the Canadian Parrot Symposium - East, and a popular program over the years, enjoyed by many who breed
cockatiels either as their specialty, or as an adjunct to support their favorite threatened or endangered species who wish to
keep up with the latest. Cockatiels are the #1 pet bird in millions of US households. Yet after decades of captive breeding,
new challenges face today's aviculturist. This program shares research studies, explaining the key elements to successful
reproduction and husbandry management of America's most popular avian species. Aviculturists have become
accustomed to working with cockatiels in captivity for many decades as their “bread and butter” birds, offering handfed
tame babies, breeding pairs, the latest mutations, and top exhibition stock for sale, all of which has led to an increased
popularity of the species over time. New breeding techniques learned over the years, to the dramatic appearance of
fascinating new color mutations has sparked a collective interest in both newcomers and seasoned breeders alike.
Husbandry techniques gathered from avian research studies have benefited cockatiel breeders by directly improving their
breeding studs or increasing their rate of reproduction. In addition, newer manufactured products ranging from prepared
handfeeding formulas suitable to the cockatiel’s sensitive digestive system, to brooders and other equipment, have been of
tremendous aid to breeding success. This program is designed for all levels. Inquire here ...
cockatiels either as their specialty, or as an adjunct to support their favorite threatened or endangered species who wish to
keep up with the latest. Cockatiels are the #1 pet bird in millions of US households. Yet after decades of captive breeding,
new challenges face today's aviculturist. This program shares research studies, explaining the key elements to successful
reproduction and husbandry management of America's most popular avian species. Aviculturists have become
accustomed to working with cockatiels in captivity for many decades as their “bread and butter” birds, offering handfed
tame babies, breeding pairs, the latest mutations, and top exhibition stock for sale, all of which has led to an increased
popularity of the species over time. New breeding techniques learned over the years, to the dramatic appearance of
fascinating new color mutations has sparked a collective interest in both newcomers and seasoned breeders alike.
Husbandry techniques gathered from avian research studies have benefited cockatiel breeders by directly improving their
breeding studs or increasing their rate of reproduction. In addition, newer manufactured products ranging from prepared
handfeeding formulas suitable to the cockatiel’s sensitive digestive system, to brooders and other equipment, have been of
tremendous aid to breeding success. This program is designed for all levels. Inquire here ...
Program 7
| ADVENTURE into the AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK! |
Presented at a number of meetings, this fun, entertaining, and gorgeous slide presentation tracing the trip into the Outback
of St. George in Queensland during a speaking tour in Brisbane, Sydney and Victoria, Australia. Stories and encounters
range from tracking various species of parrots in the wild, including a flock of Leadbeater's Cockatoos to Red-tailed Black
Cockatoos, to flocks of cockatiels feeding in the soghrum fields - and everything inbetween! Journey down the paddock
fields, to the irrigated river where Rosebreasted Cockatoos, Red-rumps and cockatiels colony breed in gum trees - to emus
strutting across the landscape to greet us as curious about us, as we are of them. Kangaroos, wallabees, Tasmanian devils,
lemurs and duck-billed platypus, are a few that round out the wilder side. Visitations to Australian aviaries and the coveted
Australian Platinum cockatiel mutation - unavailable in America - finish the sojourn into "Oz." Inquire here ...
of St. George in Queensland during a speaking tour in Brisbane, Sydney and Victoria, Australia. Stories and encounters
range from tracking various species of parrots in the wild, including a flock of Leadbeater's Cockatoos to Red-tailed Black
Cockatoos, to flocks of cockatiels feeding in the soghrum fields - and everything inbetween! Journey down the paddock
fields, to the irrigated river where Rosebreasted Cockatoos, Red-rumps and cockatiels colony breed in gum trees - to emus
strutting across the landscape to greet us as curious about us, as we are of them. Kangaroos, wallabees, Tasmanian devils,
lemurs and duck-billed platypus, are a few that round out the wilder side. Visitations to Australian aviaries and the coveted
Australian Platinum cockatiel mutation - unavailable in America - finish the sojourn into "Oz." Inquire here ...
Coming soon ... Exhibiting Psittacine Birds
Use Contact Form to inquire about these or other program possibilities.
| Disclaimer: All services above are contingent upon availability. |
Presented at the American Federation of Aviculture convention in St. Louis, this pioneering, cutting edge discussion will
focus on the dynamics of responsible livestock husbandry practices that deal with genetic issues affecting health, fertility,
parenting and longevity. Topics include such questions as, “Is a bigger bird necessarily a better bird?” “How are we ‘setting’
inherent parenting skills and how are we breeding fertility and desirable parenting skills out of our existing stock?” “Why are
we producing birds with shorter life spans and smaller clutches?” “Are we sacrificing too much in order to produce more
saleable offspring or top exhibition stock?” “What will happen to the reproductive quality and longevity of future breeding
stock? Whichever species the aviculturist may select as a specialty, this discussion will focus a conscious awareness of
working with basic genetic principles that will enhance and safeguard the viability of the aviculturist’s breeding stock and
its contribution (or contamination), to the gene pool at large. This discussion brings a new focus to the genetic influences
affecting the flock whatever the aviculturist's goals, be it producing quality pets, future breeding stock, or the establishment
of high-quality exhibition stock. Inquire here ...
focus on the dynamics of responsible livestock husbandry practices that deal with genetic issues affecting health, fertility,
parenting and longevity. Topics include such questions as, “Is a bigger bird necessarily a better bird?” “How are we ‘setting’
inherent parenting skills and how are we breeding fertility and desirable parenting skills out of our existing stock?” “Why are
we producing birds with shorter life spans and smaller clutches?” “Are we sacrificing too much in order to produce more
saleable offspring or top exhibition stock?” “What will happen to the reproductive quality and longevity of future breeding
stock? Whichever species the aviculturist may select as a specialty, this discussion will focus a conscious awareness of
working with basic genetic principles that will enhance and safeguard the viability of the aviculturist’s breeding stock and
its contribution (or contamination), to the gene pool at large. This discussion brings a new focus to the genetic influences
affecting the flock whatever the aviculturist's goals, be it producing quality pets, future breeding stock, or the establishment
of high-quality exhibition stock. Inquire here ...
| LINE BREEDING SMALL HOOKBILLS for HEALTH, FERTILITY & LONGEVITY |
| Linda S. Rubin |