Dog and cat shows have become standard...

Dog and cat shows have become standard fare for animal lovers, but a group of South Bay bird enthusiasts says it’s about time that bird shows are afforded the same respect. And this weekend, birds of all kinds will be on display during the Southern California Finch and Hookbill Show, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at the Community Resource Center in Redondo Beach.

There will be bird photo contests, a talking bird contest and a free-flying bird demonstration. Organizers say the purpose is to raise awareness about the proper care and nutrition of birds, and to let people know that there are many other types of parrots besides cockatiels and conures.

“We feel that for the children, especially, this is a great opportunity to introduce them to the joys of pet ownership,” said Roxanne Lynn Greene, a Torrance resident who is helping organize the bird show. “We want them to know that birds are fun and (we) have planned many events with audience participation in mind.

Greene said proceeds from the event will go toward the Hurricane Andrew Relief Fund, to help residents of South Florida recover from the devastating storm.

What: The third annual Southern California Finch and Hookbill Show, featuring finches, lovebirds, cockatiels, parrots and other birds from across the country. Organizers say exhibitors from as far away as Ohio and Maryland will be there.

When: Saturday from 7 to 9 a.m. to register birds for show; judging starts at 10 a.m.; trophies presented at 7 p.m., followed by trick bird and owner look-alike contest at 8:30 p.m. On Sunday, judging starts at 8 a.m. Show ends at 5 p.m.

Where: Community Resource Center, located at Nob Hill and Pacific Coast Highway in Redondo Beach.

Background: The Southern California Finch and Hookbill Assn. is a relatively new club in the South Bay but is sponsoring its third show. Organizers say hundreds of rare and exotic birds will be on display.

Admission: Adults $1; children under 12 free. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Bird entry fee is $1.50 per bird.

Information: (310) 318-2884 or (310) 327-1473.