Companion Animals

Companion Bird Breeding Welfare Standards

The companion bird trade involves welfare problems at breeding facilities, during transport, and in retail that result in high mortality and poor welfare for millions of birds.

Key Facts

Mortality rates for imported exotic birds historically exceeded 50% before international trade restrictions
Domestically bred parrots from mills face overcrowding, poor nutrition, and insufficient socialization
Improperly socialized parrots develop behavioral problems that make them difficult to care for as adults
Hand-rearing from very early ages can impair normal parrot social development when done incorrectly

Welfare Considerations

Companion bird welfare problems begin at breeding and continue through transport and sale. Mill-bred parrots may be weaned too early, inadequately socialized, and nutritionally deficient before sale. These early deficits affect behavioral development for life, creating animals that are simultaneously dependent on humans and poorly equipped for companion life. Adopting from rescue organizations avoids supporting this pipeline.

What You Can Do

Adopt companion birds from rescue organizations rather than purchasing from breeders or pet stores
Research species-specific needs exhaustively before acquiring any parrot or bird
Support avian rescue organizations that rehabilitate mill-bred and neglected companion birds
Advocate for companion bird breeding standards that require adequate socialization and veterinary care
Never purchase wild-caught companion birds regardless of claimed legality