Bird in the hand

Judges Brian Glassey and Diane Payton inspect a pekin bantam on the opening day of the Oamaru Poultry, Pigeon and Canary Society’s 139th annual show yesterday.

Attracting 801 entries, it was the biggest show in recent years.

An array of birds were judged in their respective categories, including pekin bantam, jacobin pigeons and budgies.

The show also honoured the late Barrie Rae, a life member, show manager and renowned pigeon exhibitor, who died the day after the show last year.

The fancy pigeon competition was named the Barrie Rae Memorial Fancy Pigeon Classic and the Rae family donated a trophy for the winner.