Companion Animals

Parrot Welfare and Wild Capture

Wild-captured parrots endure severe welfare harm, and illegal capture continues despite legal protections in many species.

Key Facts

CITES Appendix I listing has reduced but not eliminated wild parrot capture
Up to 75% of wild-caught parrots die before reaching buyers
Grey parrots have declined by 80% partly due to trade pressure
Captive-bred parrots from responsible breeders have dramatically better welfare outcomes

Welfare Considerations

Wild parrot capture causes acute welfare harm at every stage: capture trauma, crowded transport, repeated handling, and high mortality. Despite CITES protections, illegal trade continues driven by demand for rare species. Even legally exported wild-caught birds endure significant welfare compromise. Captive-bred alternatives exist for virtually all popular parrot species.

What You Can Do

Only purchase captive-bred parrots with documented origins
Refuse to purchase any wild-caught parrot species regardless of price
Support CITES enforcement programs targeting parrot trafficking
Report suspected wild-caught parrot sales to relevant authorities