The Spangle Double Factor budgerigar represents a captivating variation within the budgerigar fancy, characterized by its striking lack of body markings and uniform coloration. This unique trait is a result of a double dose of the Spangle gene, leading to either a pure yellow or pure white bird. While generally devoid of markings, the double factor spangle melanistic variant can exhibit a reduced intensity of body color, resembling a Clearwing. This article delves into the history, identification, and breeding of this distinctive budgerigar variety.
A Look Back: The History of the Spangle Mutation
The Spangle mutation first came to light in 1971 when Mr. Sergio Casagrande in Victoria, Australia, observed these unusual birds in his aviary. The Budgerigar Council of Australasia (B.C.A) Secretary, Mr. Harry Eady, noted these birds in 1972. However, it is Mr. Merv Jones of Traralgon, Victoria, who is credited with the mutation’s establishment. In 1974, he successfully bred sixty similar birds from a single bird acquired from his neighbor, Albert Richie. During this time, the appearance of clear yellow or white birds, later termed the Spangle Double Factor, also occurred. Mr. Jones consulted with leading Victorian breeder Mr. Frank Gardner, suspecting he had discovered a new mutation.
In 1976, six of these distinctively marked birds were presented at the Gardner Shield Show for Mr. Gardner’s assessment. He confirmed the presence of a new mutation, with fanciers already using the term “spangley” to describe them. Mr. Gardner officially named the variety “Spangle,” drawing a parallel to the spangle markings seen in poultry. The recognition that the clear yellow and white birds were manifestations of the same mutation is attributed to Mr. Geoff Gardiner, a young enthusiast at the time who later became a prominent figure and Senior Judge in Victoria’s budgerigar community. Breeders have since developed Spangle Double Factors in various forms, some appearing as almost solid colors with a subtle body color collar, while others, due to the inclusion of melanistic Spangle, resemble pale-colored Clearwings.
Identifying the Exhibition Standard of Perfection
To be recognized in exhibition standards, the Double Factor Spangle budgerigar must meet specific criteria. The bird should display solid and uniform color of full intensity across its body, rump, and underparts. Its mask should be broad and deep, extending past the large cheek patches without any interruption or cleft. Silvery white cheek patches are a hallmark on both yellow (buttercup) and white varieties. The wings should mirror the body color, with primary flights and tail feathers approaching full body color. Key identifying features include black eyes with a white iris ring and feet that are either blue/grey, pink, or a combination of both. Exhibiting hens possess a brown cere, while cocks have a blue cere.
Strategic Pairings for Producing Double Factor Spangle Budgerigars
Successful breeding of Spangle Double Factors hinges on strategic pairing. It is generally recommended to pair them with high-quality normal Spangles. Mating a Spangle with another Spangle can indeed produce double factor offspring. To mitigate the undesirable body color collar that can appear below the mask, breeders often incorporate a Cinnamon wing background. The Cinnamonwing gene is beneficial as it promotes an even distribution of pale body color suffusion. Even greater effectiveness can be achieved by utilizing a Cinnamon wing Opaline background, as both the Cinnamon wing and Opaline genes act as modifiers that weaken body color. For more in-depth guidance on the role of Opaline in background genetics, consulting a breeder specializing in Spangle Double Factors is advisable.
For those interested in the genetics and pairing expectations, a detailed visual guide is available for download. This resource can be invaluable for understanding the various outcomes of different gene combinations. Understanding Budgie Genetics can provide foundational knowledge, while exploring crested budgies for sale might offer insights into other unique mutations.
