Slender Billed Conures and Amboina King Parrots – two highly under-rated parrot species – and is hoping to inspire more aviculturalists to up these species’ numbers in captivity.
Brent is driven by his lifelong dream – to become one of South Africa’s top bird breeders. He is competitive by nature and believes that his passion to be the best is a formula for success. When it comes to breeding Madagascan Vasa Parrots, he’s up against some fine young breeders. “Let the best man prove himself,” he chuckles. Only time will tell who will have the most Vasa chicks this season! The surname Da Luz conjures up images of delicious Portuguese fish and chips, piping hot and dripping in spices. Along with his dad, Brent runs a successful chain of Portuguese fish and chip shops in the Western Cape. With a hectic business schedule, Brent has to
16 BIRD SCENE
manage his 250 birds in his spare time. Luckily for him, Dad is around to give assistance when things get really busy. Although he has a long wish list, he has chosen to spend his precious time on specific rare species. The two that are closest to his heart are the Conures and the Amboinas. Brent voices concerns that the export market is luring many South African breeders to sell their collections, causing numbers to dwindle. He also worries that far too many breeders are investing in ‘mass market species’ like African Greys.
“I’m a bird addict,” says Brent, “and often have to reign myself in. My Dad supports my hobby but ensures that I spend my money wisely!” Many a bird breeder will part with hard-earned knowledge to those who ask!” Says Brent, we all underestimate how many rare birds end up as pets. He’s found some real gems, like his breeding
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