Monday, April 29, 2019

A Bird Lover's Guide to Protecting Endangered Parrots

By Mary Bennett


Having a bird for a pet is an experience that is totally unique. Many people love the idea of adding one of the many species of parrots to their home but what they may not realize is that they run the risk of adding endangered parrots to their home. If you want to find a way to protect these creatures, here is what you need to know so that you can do your part to save them.

You may be surprised to learn that the parrot species is actually quite large. There are actually almost four hundred species that can be found both in the wild and as domesticated pets. They range in size from very small to quite large. While their size can vary quite a bit, all parrots have a large beak or bill that curves and four toes on each foot, two of which face forward and two which face backwards.

There are many different reasons why any animal or bird is becoming endangered but for many parrot species, the problem is due to habitat loss. The forests where many of these creatures live and feed are being cut down for agricultural use or for humans to build homes. If you work with companies that try and preserve the environment you can, by extension, help keep these birds safe.

Working with, and supporting, companies that try to reverse or offset deforestation can help protect parrots. Doing your research and finding the species that are the most critically endangered species can help you narrow down your choices and select those companies that will have the greatest impact on the avian population.

While it may seem like a good thing for these birds to be so popular as pets, it is actually a mixed blessing. Some types of birds are very brightly colored. They are smart and have endearing personalities. Their long life spans and ability to be trained also makes them popular in the pet market.

Many people are poaching animals from the wild. While most people think of larger animals, the fact is that birds are also being poached as well and it is beginning to put a huge strain on the wild bird population. There have been many stories of people who are stopped while trying to transport baby birds or eggs hidden inside their clothing. The value of a rare parrot can make the stiff fines for poaching worthwhile.

While you may be tempted by parrots that you see in pet stores, this is not always the best place to get a pet bird. The specimens you see in stores may not have been hand raised and may even have been purchased from sources that poach them from the wild. You should find out as much as possible about where a particular bird has come from before you buy it.

Taking your time and doing your research before bringing home a parrot can help you avoid damaging the wild bird populations. Working with individual breeders rather than purchasing them from a store can also help you avoid illegally sourced birds and will ensure you have a better chance of picking a healthy, tame bird that will become a welcome addition to your family.




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