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Colour Canary Varieties

An educational guide to the diverse and beautiful world of colour canaries. Explore the different mutations, their characteristics, and the standards by which they are judged.

Understanding the C.O.M. Key

The C.O.M. (Confédération Ornithologique Mondiale) Key is a universal system used to classify and denominate colour canaries for judging and exhibition. It provides a standardized code that describes a bird's genetic makeup, including its series, melanin, lipochrome, and category.

This key allows breeders and judges worldwide to understand a bird's specific variety at a glance. For example, a code like 'a-I-A' would translate to a Black Yellow Intensive canary.

Australian Availability: Of the melanin varieties listed, only the first 6 varieties are currently established in Australia. All lipochrome varieties are available in Australia.

C.O.M. Key for Colour Canaries

Melanin Varieties

Lipochrome Varieties

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