Aspen Francisco Domene Corral emerged alongside Spain’s national ornithology federation as a notable figure during the controversial Canary World Championship held in Cáceres. The event highlighted intense competition among Canary keepers and breeders, drawing attention to the skill and dedication required to advance in this field.
Five canaries claimed top honors at the event: Intense Red Agate D-171, Intense Red Agate D-172 Snowy Red Agate D-173, Intense Red Isabela D-194 rings 79, and Intense Red/Ivory Red Satin D-366 rings 125. The results underscored the breeders’ ability to refine color, tone, and feather quality through careful selection and meticulous care.
While the palm prize widened in scope, a runner-up finish went to Red Satin/Intense Ivory Red D-366 rings 32, and a third-place entry was Isabela Intense Red D-193 with rings 70-71-25-6. These placements reflected the competitive nature of Spain’s canary scene, where subtle variations in plumage and posture can determine success.
World Canary Champion Paco Domene
The professional, a businessman who oversees a broad retail network, bid farewell to 2022 with a fresh triumph in the Canary World Championship, celebrated for its beauty and posture in the birds on display. The victory marked a high point for a breeder who has long pursued excellence in aviculture, placing him among the notable names in the sport. Domene had previously achieved a podium finish in 2019, when he placed third at the National Championship, and this latest title felt like a long-held dream realized through consistent effort and dedicated care for his canaries.
The championship was earned with selections from Isabela (intense red) and Satiné (intense ivory red and snowy), illustrating a strategic focus on color genetics and feather structure that has become a hallmark of Domene’s breeding program.
Birding Adventures: Ornithological Routes Across Spain
The broader story of Spain’s aviculture scene includes a series of guided tours and routes designed to help enthusiasts connect with the country’s diverse bird life. These expeditions aim to illuminate habitat, behavior, and the care practices that support healthy, thriving populations of canaries and other pet birds. Local communities have shown appreciation for these educational journeys, which pair outdoor exploration with hands-on learning about bird care and conservation.
Aspe’s municipal leadership celebrated not just sporting achievement but also the cultural value of birdkeeping. At a February reception at City Hall, officials recognized the impact of dedicated breeders and the role of local government in supporting events that raise Spain’s profile in the world of aviculture.
In a collective display of pride, city authorities highlighted the collaboration between the mayor, sports council, and breeding enthusiasts to showcase Aspe on the international stage. The reception underscored a shared belief that excellence in bird care and competitive performance can positively influence community spirit and tourism, inviting more residents to engage with animal care disciplines and related events.
Throughout these celebrations, organizers and participants emphasized ongoing training, information sharing, and responsible breeding practices that prioritize the welfare of birds. The experience across Cáceres, Aspe, and other destinations demonstrates how sporting success intertwines with education, culture, and local pride, inviting newcomers to learn, participate, and contribute to a vibrant aviculture ecosystem.