Today's Gloster Standard of Excellence is displayed from 4 different angles
This was made possible through a motion made at the GFCC AGM in 2025 by Steve Chennells our Vice Chairman
The Consort
The Gloster Consort is the non-crested variety of the Gloster Fancy Canary and represents the pure expression of the breed’s type, balance, and feather quality without the presence of a crest.
General Appearance
The Consort should display a compact, cobby, and harmonious outline, combining refinement with substance. Balance and proportion are essential, with no single feature appearing exaggerated. The bird should convey neatness, roundness, and elegance.
Size
Ideal length approximately 11 cm (4½ inches).
The bird should appear small and sturdy, never long, coarse, or narrow.
Head
The head must be broad, rounded, and well proportioned, forming a smooth continuation of the body line.
- The skull should be wide with a gently rounded profile.
- Eyebrows should be clearly defined but never heavy.
- Expression should be soft and pleasing, contributing to the characteristic Gloster charm.
The head of the Consort is often described as showing the true type of the breed.
Body
Short, compact, and well-rounded with good width across shoulders and chest. The back should be smooth and slightly curved, tapering subtly toward the tail to maintain overall balance.
Wings
Neatly carried and close fitting to the body, without crossing or drooping.
Tail
Short, narrow, and proportional, carried straight and in line with the back.
Legs and Feet
Moderate in length, allowing the bird to stand comfortably without appearing tall or upright.
Feather Quality
Feathering should be tight, smooth, and silky, enhancing the rounded outline while maintaining definition. Excessive feather length or looseness is undesirable.
Condition
The Consort should appear lively, clean, and well presented, demonstrating excellent health, condition, and preparation for exhibition.
The Corona
The Gloster Corona is the crested variety of this type of Canary, distinguished by its characteristic circular crest which forms the defining feature of the variety.
General Appearance
The Corona should present a compact, cobby, and harmonious outline, displaying harmony between body, head, and feather quality. The bird must convey neatness, refinement, and overall symmetry, without exaggeration in any single feature.
Size
The size should be to the diminutive, i.e. as close as possible to the size from perch to perch in the show cage. The bird should appear small yet jaunty in action, never long, coarse, or slim.
Head and Crest
The crest is the hallmark of the Corona.
- The crest must be round, full, and symmetrical, forming a complete circular outline.
- Feathering radiates evenly from a small central point, creating a smooth and natural fall.
- The crest should sit neatly on the head without heaviness or distortion and connected to the
- Eyes should remain visible through the feathering and not be completely buried.
- No splits, irregular feather growth, or excessive bulk should be present.
Body
Short, compact, and well-rounded with good width across the shoulders and chest. The back should be smooth and gently curved, tapering slightly towards the tail.
Wings
Neatly folded, lying close to the body without crossing.
Tail
Short, narrow, and in proportion to the body, carried in line with the back.
Legs and Feet
Moderate in length, allowing the bird to stand confidently without appearing high-stationed.
Feather Quality
Feathering should be smooth, tight, and silky, enhancing the rounded outline of the bird while maintaining definition and refinement.
Condition
The Corona must appear alert, clean, and well presented, showing vitality and excellent preparation for exhibition.