Bleeding Heart Pigeons are an endangered group of pigeons found throughout the Philippine Islands. We in Australia are privileged to have a population of the Luzon Bleeding Heart in our aviaries. The bird became the subject of the first project adopted by the Conservation Committee. A survey was conducted of the population of Bleeding Hearts in Australian aviaries. It was found that, while the bird is far from numerous, a genetically viable population exists. To assist in the propagation of the Bleeding Heart a husbandry manual was prepared. This manual was published using the format of husbandry manual used in Australian zoos. Realising that the Bleeding Heart was in dire straits in its native country, the Committee looked for a project to support. It was decided to support the construction of aviaries for a captive breeding project in the Philippines. Money was raised through a raffle, the sale of tee shirts, and husbandry manuals. In the end over $2000 has been raised to help with the construction of the aviaries. Other funds came from conservation organisations and zoos from around the world. The project brought the Conservation Committee into contact with aviculturists, conservationists and zoo biologists from four continents.

The Bleeding Heart Pigeon Project succeeded because of the hard work and dedication of Charles Hibbert, a well known Melbourne aviculturist. Charles would like to hear from anyone with an interest in these pigeons, and may be contacted at chibbert@bigpond.com.au