Cross breeds are hybrids, and they are not usually APA approved. Stick with pure bred and look at the APA coloring. I always wash my birds 3 days before a show. This gives them enough time ti regain their shine/oil to their feathers. The bird cannot have any body parasites or deformities. Make eye contact with the judge and do not speak until spoken to. Use ma'am or sir when addressing them. Also make sure you know how to handle your birds really well. Good luck.