Once again it is time for the yearly parrot auction to take place.

The event, which garners many a spectator and enthusiast, is in its third year and takes place on Saturday 25 May at the Eike Hall in Rawsonville.

“This year we have about 100 lots that will be auctioned, just less than last year,” said Guy van Zyl, chairperson of the Overberg Parrot Club and Parrot Breeders Association of Southern Africa (Pasa), “but that can be written down to the economy as everyone does not have the funds readily available to come and join us.”

As with the auctions in the past, this year is no different, what with breeders and owners from as far afield as Gqeberha, Wolmaranstad, Stella and East London participating.

“What is also very interesting is that two years ago a junior bought a few birds at the auction, and this year she is back and those offspring will be auctioned on the 25th.”

The Overberg Parrot Club was started in 2008, and after each auction the club’s membership increases.

“After every auction we get a lot of enquiries and people wanting to become a member,” Van Zyl said. “Being part of such a club is beneficial to the owners because we are able to lend support to fellow bird lovers and breeders, and we can also provide help.”

He invites everyone to pop in at the auction.

“Bring the family. We start on the Friday from 14:30, when all the birds will be checked, and see if they are fit to be auctioned. From 18:00 to 19:00 we will auction off a lamb to raise some funds, and then from 19:00 we will have our traditional dinner of waterblommetjiebredie. On Saturday we start bright and early again. The birds can be viewed up to 09:30. The auction starts at 10:00.”