Illegal Parrot Species in the USA

The vibrant world of parrots captivates us with their dazzling plumage, intelligent minds, and astonishing ability to mimic human speech. From the majestic Macaws to the playful Conures, these intelligent birds are cherished companions for many. However, beneath the allure lies a dark, often unseen side of the exotic pet trade: the illicit market for illegal parrot species in the USA. This clandestine industry poses a severe threat to wild populations, animal welfare, and even public health, while also carrying significant legal risks for unsuspecting or complicit individuals.

Imagine a parrot, vibrant and full of life, torn from its native habitat, crammed into inhumane conditions, and smuggled across borders – all to fuel an insatiable demand. This isn’t a rare occurrence; it’s a grim reality for countless birds every year. Understanding which parrot species are illegal, why they are, and the profound consequences of this illicit trade is crucial for anyone passionate about these incredible creatures, for ethical pet ownership, and for the preservation of global biodiversity.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the complexities surrounding illegal parrots in the USA. We’ll unravel the laws, identify the most targeted species, expose the devastating impacts of the black market, and, most importantly, equip you with the knowledge and tools to be a responsible, ethical advocate for parrots everywhere. Let’s shed light on this critical issue and empower you to make informed choices.

The Dark Side of the Exotic Pet Trade: Understanding Illegal Parrots in the USA

The desire to own an exotic pet, particularly a parrot, is understandable. Their beauty, intelligence, and long lifespans make them incredibly appealing companions. However, this demand, when unchecked, fuels a multi-billion dollar illicit wildlife trade, second only to drugs, arms, and human trafficking. The trade in illegal parrot species in the USA is a significant component of this global crisis, driven by profits and a disregard for conservation and animal welfare.

When we talk about “illegal parrots,” we’re not referring to all exotic birds. Many parrot species are legally bred and sold within the USA, often through reputable breeders and pet stores. The illegality arises when birds are:

• Smuggled: Wild-caught birds illegally transported across international borders.
• Unlawfully Sold: Birds that were originally smuggled and are then sold on the black market, often without proper documentation.
• Protected Species: Birds whose trade is restricted or outright banned due to their endangered status, even if captive-bred, without specific permits.
• Unregistered: Certain species may require specific permits or registration, and failure to comply makes their ownership unlawful.

The motivations behind the trade are multifaceted. For traffickers, it’s about significant financial gain, often facilitated by lax enforcement in source countries and high demand in destination markets. For some buyers, it might be an unknowing acquisition, lured by a lower price or lack of awareness about the bird’s origin. For others, it’s a deliberate choice to acquire a rare or highly sought-after species, regardless of its legal status or ethical implications. This intricate web of supply and demand creates a fertile ground for the continued proliferation of unlawful parrot ownership.

The “Why” Behind the Illicit Demand

Several factors contribute to the persistent demand for smuggled parrots:

• Rarity and Exclusivity: Rare or endangered species command higher prices and status among some collectors.
• Lower Cost (Perceived): Smuggled birds, despite the risks, can sometimes be sold cheaper than legally captive-bred counterparts because traffickers avoid breeding costs, permits, and proper veterinary care.
• Ignorance of Laws: Many potential buyers are simply unaware of the complex web of national and international laws governing exotic bird ownership.
• Lack of Documentation: For birds that might not be readily available through legal breeding programs, the black market becomes the only avenue.
• “Wild-Caught” Preference: Some believe wild-caught birds are hardier or more desirable, a misconception that fuels poaching.

The journey for these birds is horrific. From capture in the wild, often involving the destruction of nests and the killing of parent birds, to brutal transportation conditions where many perish from stress, injury, and disease, the mortality rate is staggering. Only a fraction of these birds survive the journey to become illegal parrot species in the USA, and those that do often arrive in poor health, carrying diseases that can threaten other birds and even humans.

What Makes a Parrot “Illegal”? Decoding Laws and Regulations

Defining an “illegal” parrot isn’t always straightforward, as it involves a complex interplay of international treaties, federal laws, and state-specific regulations. Understanding these frameworks is essential for any current or prospective parrot owner in the USA.

International Laws: CITES

At the heart of international wildlife protection is the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). CITES is a multilateral treaty to protect endangered plants and animals. It works by regulating international trade in specific species to ensure that it doesn’t threaten their survival. Parrots are heavily represented on CITES appendices:

• Appendix I: Species threatened with extinction. Commercial international trade in these species (and their parts/products) is prohibited. Trade is only permitted in exceptional circumstances, for non-commercial purposes (e.g., scientific research), and requires both import and export permits. Examples include many Macaw species (e.g., Lear’s Macaw, Spix’s Macaw) and various Cockatoo species.
• Appendix II: Species not necessarily threatened with extinction now, but which might become so if trade is not regulated. Commercial international trade is allowed but requires an export permit (or re-export certificate). Many popular parrot species, such as African Grey Parrots, most Cockatiels, and various Amazon parrots, are listed here.
• Appendix III: Species that are protected in at least one country, which has asked other CITES Parties for assistance in controlling trade. Trade requires a certificate of origin and, in some cases, an export permit.

The USA is a signatory to CITES, meaning these regulations are implemented through federal laws, making adherence compulsory for anyone involved in the import or export of birds.

Federal Laws in the USA

Several key federal laws govern the import, sale, and ownership of parrots in the United States, specifically targeting the trade in illegal parrot species in the USA:

1. The Wild Bird Conservation Act (WBCA) of 1992: This landmark act was designed to protect exotic bird species by prohibiting the import of most wild-caught exotic birds into the United States. It specifically aims to reduce pressure on wild populations and promote captive breeding programs. There are limited exceptions for scientific research, zoos, and cooperative breeding programs, but these require strict permitting. The WBCA is a primary tool in combating the entry of smuggled parrots into the country.
2. The Lacey Act: This act prohibits the trafficking of illegally harvested wildlife, fish, and plants. It makes it unlawful to import, export, transport, sell, receive, acquire, or purchase fish or wildlife taken, possessed, transported, or sold in violation of any federal, state, foreign, or Indian tribal law, treaty, or regulation. This means if a parrot was illegally caught in its native country, even if it’s not a CITES Appendix I species, trading it in the US would be a violation of the Lacey Act.
3. Endangered Species Act (ESA): While CITES governs international trade, the ESA protects federally listed endangered and threatened species, both domestically and internationally. If a parrot species is listed under the ESA, it receives strong protections, making its possession, sale, or transport highly regulated or prohibited without specific permits, even if captive-bred within the US.

State and Local Regulations

Beyond federal laws, individual states, counties, and cities often have their own regulations regarding exotic pet ownership. These can range from requiring permits for specific species to outright banning certain types of birds. For example, some states may have additional restrictions on highly destructive or potentially invasive species, or require specialized permits for Appendix I CITES birds even if legally obtained federally. Always check with your local animal control, state wildlife agency, and city ordinances before acquiring any parrot to ensure compliance and avoid unlawful parrot ownership.

The Most Common & Highly Targeted Illegal Parrot Species

While any parrot species can potentially be involved in illegal trade, certain species are more frequently targeted due to their rarity, beauty, intelligence, and high market value. These are often species listed on CITES Appendix I or II, making their trade heavily regulated or entirely prohibited without extensive documentation.

Species at High Risk of Illegal Trade:

• African Grey Parrots (Psittacus erithacus and Psittacus timneh): Once highly abundant, wild populations of African Greys have plummeted dramatically due to habitat loss and intense trapping for the pet trade. Both species are listed on CITES Appendix I, meaning commercial international trade is essentially banned. Despite this, they remain a top target for smugglers due to their exceptional intelligence and mimicry abilities, making them highly desirable as pets.
• Macaws (various species): Many species of Macaws, particularly the larger, more colorful ones, are highly coveted.
  • Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus): The largest parrot species, listed on CITES Appendix I. Their striking blue plumage and gentle nature make them incredibly expensive and highly sought after, leading to severe poaching pressures.
  • Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao): While more common in legal trade as captive-bred birds, wild-caught Scarlet Macaws are still targeted, especially in regions where they are particularly vibrant. Listed on CITES Appendix I.
  • Military Macaw (Ara militaris) and Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus): Both are CITES Appendix I, facing significant threats from habitat destruction and illegal capture.
• Amazon Parrots (various species): Many Amazon parrot species are popular for their talking abilities and personalities. While many are bred legally, some rarer or particularly striking species are still poached.
  • Yellow-naped Amazon (Amazona auropalliata): CITES Appendix I. Heavily poached, particularly for their exceptional talking ability.
  • Yellow-headed Amazon (Amazona oratrix): CITES Appendix I. Similar to the Yellow-naped, its excellent mimicry skills make it a target.
• Cockatoos (various species): Several Cockatoo species, especially the rarer and larger ones, are CITES Appendix I and heavily targeted.
  • Moluccan Cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis): CITES Appendix I. Their large size, intelligence, and affectionate nature make them popular, but their loud calls and demanding needs mean many end up in rescue, often after being illegally obtained.
  • Palm Cockatoo (Probosciger aterrimus): CITES Appendix I. A magnificent and rare bird, highly valued by collectors, leading to significant poaching pressure.
• Poicephalus Parrots (e.g., Senegal, Meyer’s, Red-bellied Parrots): While many are legally traded, their small size and relative ease of smuggling make wild-caught specimens appear on the black market, particularly for species listed on CITES Appendix II.

Table: Examples of Highly Targeted Parrot Species and Their CITES Status

Here’s a snapshot of some species frequently encountered in the illegal trade due to their protected status:

Species Name	CITES Appendix	Primary Reason for Illegality/Targeting
African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus/timneh)	I	Exceptional intelligence, mimicry, high demand, rapid wild population decline.
Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus)	I	Largest parrot, striking appearance, high market value, extreme rarity.
Yellow-naped Amazon (Amazona auropalliata)	I	Renowned talking ability, highly coveted for pet trade.
Moluccan Cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis)	I	Large, affectionate, highly sought after, but demanding.
Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao)	I	Iconic, vibrant colors, high demand, though many are legally captive-bred.
Palm Cockatoo (Probosciger aterrimus)	I	Unique appearance, rarity, high collector value.

It’s vital to remember that even if a species is listed on Appendix II, severe restrictions apply to its international trade, and wild-caught specimens are generally prohibited for import under the WBCA. Any purchase of a CITES-listed bird should be accompanied by impeccable, verifiable documentation proving its legal origin.

The Devastating Impact: Why Illegal Parrot Trade Harms Everyone

The trade in illegal parrot species in the USA is far more than just a legal infraction; it’s a destructive force with widespread, devastating consequences for animals, ecosystems, and human society.

1. Ecological Devastation and Species Extinction

The most profound impact is on wild parrot populations. Poaching removes individuals, often breeding adults, from already fragile ecosystems. This disrupts natural breeding cycles, reduces genetic diversity, and pushes vulnerable species closer to extinction. For many species, the rate of removal vastly outpaces their natural reproduction rate. Habitats are also damaged during capture operations, further exacerbating the crisis. The loss of these key species can have ripple effects throughout their ecosystems, affecting seed dispersal, plant pollination, and food webs, leading to broader ecological imbalance.

• Estimated Mortality: It’s estimated that for every parrot that successfully enters the pet trade from the wild, several more die during capture, transport, and holding. Some sources suggest a mortality rate of 50-90% before reaching the final consumer.
• Population Declines: Wild populations of iconic species like the African Grey Parrot have plummeted by over 90% in some regions due to unsustainable harvesting for the pet trade.

2. Severe Animal Welfare Issues

The suffering inflicted upon smuggled parrots is immense and heartbreaking. Their journey from the wild to a buyer’s home is often a horrific ordeal:

• Brutal Capture Methods: Parrots are caught using nets, traps, or by destroying nests, often resulting in injuries, stress, and the death of parent birds and chicks.
• Inhumane Transportation: Birds are crammed into small, unsanitary containers, often hidden in luggage, truck tires, or secret compartments. They endure extreme temperatures, lack of food and water, and oxygen deprivation. Many die from suffocation, starvation, stress, or injury during transit.
• Disease and Malnutrition: Survivors often arrive emaciated, injured, and riddled with stress-related illnesses or parasites. They may also carry zoonotic diseases (transmissible to humans).
• Trauma: Wild-caught birds are inherently fearful of humans. Forced into captivity, they suffer immense psychological trauma, which can manifest as feather plucking, aggression, and other behavioral issues, leading to a life of misery.

3. Threats to Human Health and Safety

The illegal wildlife trade poses a significant public health risk. Smuggled birds often bypass health inspections and quarantine protocols, increasing the likelihood of disease transmission. Parrots can carry a range of zoonotic diseases, including:

• Psittacosis (Chlamydiosis): A bacterial infection that can cause flu-like symptoms, pneumonia, and even death in humans.
• Avian Influenza: While rare, the potential for avian flu strains to jump from birds to humans is a serious concern.
• Newcastle Disease: Highly contagious and often fatal to birds, it can cause mild flu-like symptoms in humans.

The uncontrolled movement of live animals through illegal channels creates pathways for the introduction of novel pathogens, posing a global biosecurity threat.

4. Legal and Ethical Ramifications for Owners

Owning an illegal parrot species in the USA carries severe legal consequences, regardless of whether the owner was aware of the bird’s origins:

• Fines and Imprisonment: Violations of the Lacey Act, WBCA, CITES, or ESA can result in substantial fines (tens of thousands of dollars) and lengthy prison sentences.
• Confiscation of the Animal: Any illegally obtained parrot will be confiscated, often without compensation, and placed into a rescue or sanctuary, or, in some cases, humanely euthanized if its health is severely compromised or it poses a disease risk.
• Reputational Damage: Involvement in the illegal wildlife trade can severely damage one’s reputation.

Beyond legal penalties, there are significant ethical implications. By purchasing an illegal parrot, even unknowingly, an individual inadvertently supports and perpetuates a cruel and destructive industry. Ethical ownership means ensuring your pet has been acquired legally and responsibly, contributing to conservation, not its demise.

Identifying & Avoiding Illegal Parrots: A Buyer’s Guide and Ethical Ownership

The best way to combat the trade in illegal parrot species in the USA is to ensure you never contribute to it, even inadvertently. As a prospective parrot owner, due diligence is paramount. Here’s a guide to making ethical and legal choices:

1. Understand the Laws Before You Buy

Before you even begin your search, educate yourself:

• Federal Laws: Familiarize yourself with CITES, the Wild Bird Conservation Act (WBCA), and the Lacey Act. Understand that commercial international trade in most wild-caught parrots is illegal, and many species require specific permits.
• State & Local Laws: Check with your state’s Department of Fish and Wildlife, local animal control, and city ordinances. Some areas have additional restrictions or bans on certain parrot species.

2. Buy from Reputable Sources Only

This is perhaps the most critical step. A reputable breeder or avian specialty store will:

• Provide Detailed Records: Offer full documentation, including hatch certificates (for captive-bred birds), parentage information, banding records, and veterinary health certificates. For CITES-listed birds, ask for CITES permits (for legally imported birds) or proof of legal captive breeding within the US.
• Welcome Inspections: Allow you to visit their facility, see the breeding pair (if applicable), and observe the living conditions of their birds.
• Be Knowledgeable & Responsible: Be able to answer all your questions about the bird’s species, care, and legal status. They will prioritize the bird’s welfare over a quick sale.
• Never Sell Unbanded Birds: Legally captive-bred parrots in the US are typically closed-banded (a seamless metal ring placed on the leg as a chick). While a band doesn’t guarantee legality (bands can be faked or placed on wild birds), an unbanded bird (especially a juvenile) is a major red flag.

3. Be Wary of “Bargains”

If a price seems too good to be true for a rare or highly sought-after parrot, it almost certainly is. The costs associated with ethical breeding, proper nutrition, and veterinary care are significant. Extremely low prices often indicate a bird with an illegal origin, health problems, or both. For instance, an African Grey Parrot sold significantly below the typical market rate for a legally bred bird in the USA should raise immediate suspicion of it being an illegal parrot in the USA.

4. Demand Proper Documentation (and Verify It!)

Never accept vague answers or excuses about paperwork. For CITES-listed species, specific permits are required for international trade. For domestically bred birds, a hatch certificate and proof of parentage are essential. If purchasing a bird that was imported years ago, ask for import documentation. Don’t just take a piece of paper; understand what it means and, if possible, verify its legitimacy through official channels (e.g., USDA or USFWS). Key documents include:

• Hatch Certificate: Details the bird’s species, hatch date, breeder information, and band number.
• CITES Certificates: If the bird was legally imported (e.g., for conservation purposes or before WBCA), it will have specific CITES import/export permits.
• Health Certificates: From a licensed avian veterinarian.

5. Exercise Caution with Online Sales and Unverified Private Sellers

Online marketplaces and social media groups are notorious for facilitating the sale of illegal parrot species in the USA. While legitimate sellers use these platforms, they are also a haven for traffickers. Be extremely skeptical of sellers who:

• Refuse to meet in person or allow you to see the bird’s living conditions.
• Are vague about the bird’s history or origin.
• Pressure you for a quick sale.
• Don’t provide clear, high-quality photos or videos.
• Demand cash-only transactions without receipts.

6. Consider Rescue and Adoption

Instead of buying, consider adopting a parrot from a reputable avian rescue organization. These birds are often in need of loving homes, and the rescue will have done the due diligence regarding the bird’s legal status (if known) and health. You give a bird a second chance and support an ethical cause.

Ethical parrot ownership begins with responsible acquisition. By following these guidelines, you become a part of the solution, helping to protect wild parrot populations and ensure the welfare of all parrots.

What to Do if You Encounter an Illegal Parrot or Suspect Smuggling

Discovering or suspecting the presence of an illegal parrot in the USA can be a challenging situation. Whether it’s a bird being offered for sale under suspicious circumstances, or you’ve unknowingly acquired one, knowing the correct steps to take is crucial. Your actions can help combat the illegal wildlife trade and protect both animals and the public.

1. Do NOT Purchase or Take Possession of the Suspect Bird

If you suspect a parrot is illegal, the most important thing is to avoid taking possession of it. Purchasing or acquiring an unlawful parrot, even with good intentions, can make you complicit in the illegal trade and expose you to significant legal penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment. It perpetuates the demand that drives the cruel trade.

2. Gather Information Discretely

If you encounter a suspicious situation, try to gather as much information as possible without putting yourself at risk or alerting the suspected trafficker. Useful details include:

• Seller’s Information: Name, contact details, location (if an individual) or business name and address (if a store).
• Bird Details: Species, apparent age, distinguishing features, overall health condition, presence or absence of a leg band, and any documentation offered.
• Circumstances of the Sale: Where was it advertised? What price? Any unusual conditions of sale (e.g., cash only, no paperwork)?
• Date and Time: When did you observe or learn about the situation?

Take screenshots of online ads, note down names, and covertly take photos if safe to do so. Do not engage in an argument or directly accuse anyone.

3. Report Your Suspicions to the Authorities

Reporting is vital. The relevant authorities are equipped to investigate and take action. Here’s who to contact:

• U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) Law Enforcement: This is the primary federal agency responsible for enforcing wildlife laws, including CITES, the Lacey Act, and the WBCA. They investigate smuggling, illegal sales, and unlawful possession of protected species.
  • How to Report: Visit their official website (fws.gov/wildlife-crime) or call their tip line. You can often report anonymously.
• State Wildlife Agencies: Your state’s Department of Fish and Wildlife (or equivalent) may also have jurisdiction, especially concerning state-specific regulations.
• Local Law Enforcement/Animal Control: For immediate concerns regarding animal welfare or if you believe the bird is in immediate distress, your local authorities might be able to respond quickly, even if the federal illegality needs to be handled by USFWS.

When reporting, provide all the information you’ve gathered. Be clear, concise, and cooperative. Emphasize that you suspect trade in illegal parrot species in the USA.

4. What If You Already Own an Illegal Parrot (Unknowingly)?

This is a more complicated and sensitive situation. If you genuinely believe you have unknowingly acquired an unlawful parrot:

• Seek Legal Counsel: It is highly advisable to consult with an attorney who specializes in wildlife law. They can advise you on the best course of action to minimize legal repercussions.
• Do NOT Attempt to Resell or Release: Attempting to sell an illegal bird further perpetuates the trade and is illegal. Releasing a captive bird (especially one of non-native origin or unknown health status) is irresponsible and illegal, as it can introduce diseases, become invasive, or simply be unable to survive in the wild.
• Contact USFWS or a Reputable Avian Rescue: Your attorney may advise you to voluntarily surrender the bird to USFWS. While this might still incur some legal penalties, it is often viewed more favorably than discovery through an investigation. Alternatively, contact a reputable, licensed avian rescue or sanctuary. Some may be able to accept the bird and work with authorities, but it’s crucial to be transparent about the suspected illegal status.

It’s a difficult position, but taking responsible action, even if late, is the most ethical and legally sound path.

5. Support Reputable Organizations

Beyond reporting, you can contribute to the fight against illegal parrot trade by supporting organizations dedicated to wildlife conservation, law enforcement, and avian rescue. These groups work tirelessly to protect species in the wild, rehabilitate confiscated birds, and educate the public about responsible pet ownership.

Your awareness and willingness to act are powerful tools in stopping the destructive cycle of the illegal parrot trade. By taking these steps, you contribute to the safety of parrot populations worldwide and uphold the integrity of ethical animal care.

Conclusion: Be a Champion for Parrots, Not a Contributor to Crime

The journey through the world of illegal parrot species in the USA reveals a grim reality: a clandestine trade driven by profit, fueled by demand, and leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. We’ve explored the intricate web of laws, from CITES to the Wild Bird Conservation Act, designed to protect these magnificent birds. We’ve identified the most vulnerable species, from the intelligent African Grey to the majestic Hyacinth Macaw, all victims of poaching and smuggling. And we’ve laid bare the devastating impacts – ecological collapse, immense animal suffering, public health risks, and severe legal consequences for those involved.

But this is not a story without hope. You, as a current or aspiring parrot enthusiast, hold immense power to make a difference. By committing to ethical practices, educating yourself, and being vigilant, you can become a crucial part of the solution. Remember that responsible pet ownership extends beyond providing food and shelter; it encompasses understanding the origins of your companion and ensuring that your choices do not contribute to a cruel and illegal industry.

Never succumb to the temptation of a suspiciously cheap bird or bypass the necessary documentation. Always purchase from reputable, transparent sources that can verify a parrot’s legal, captive-bred origin. If you suspect foul play, act decisively by reporting to the authorities. Every ethical choice, every informed decision, every report of suspicious activity chips away at the foundations of the illegal wildlife trade, safeguarding parrots for generations to come.

Let your passion for parrots translate into a commitment to their protection. Be a champion for their future, ensuring that the vibrant beauty and intelligence of these extraordinary birds continue to grace our planet, not as commodities of a black market, but as thriving members of our global ecosystem. Together, we can turn the tide against illegal parrot species in the USA and foster a world where all parrots thrive legally and ethically.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a parrot species illegal in the USA?

Parrot species are deemed illegal in the USA primarily due to international treaties like CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) and domestic laws such as the Wild Bird Conservation Act (WBCA). These regulations aim to prevent the exploitation of endangered species and protect global biodiversity by restricting or prohibiting their trade and import.

Which are some common illegal parrot species in the USA?

While no parrot species is *illegal to own if acquired legally before the laws were enacted*, certain species are illegal to *import or sell* without specific permits. Highly restricted or commonly smuggled species include various types of Macaws (like some Hyacinth Macaws unless very specific conditions are met), some African Grey Parrot subspecies, and certain Cockatoo species, particularly if they are wild-caught. Most legal parrots in the USA are captive-bred.

What are the consequences of owning illegal parrot species in the USA?

Owning or trading illegal parrot species in the USA can lead to severe penalties, including substantial fines and imprisonment. Authorities can seize the bird, and individuals may face charges under federal laws like the Lacey Act or the Wild Bird Conservation Act. These measures are in place to deter the illegal wildlife trade and protect vulnerable populations.

How can I tell if a parrot I’m interested in is an illegal parrot species in the USA?

To ensure you’re not acquiring an illegal parrot species in the USA, always request proof of origin, such as a breeder’s certificate or CITES documentation for certain species. Be wary of unusually low prices or sellers who cannot provide clear documentation, as most legal pet parrots in the US are domestically captive-bred. Consulting with a reputable avian veterinarian or rescue organization can also help confirm a bird’s legal status.

What should I do if I suspect someone has an illegal parrot species in the USA?

If you suspect someone has an illegal parrot species in the USA, you should report it to the appropriate authorities. Contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or your state’s wildlife enforcement agency. Providing as much detail as possible, such as location and species, can assist in their investigation to combat illegal wildlife trade.

Are all wild-caught parrots considered illegal parrot species in the USA?

Not all wild-caught parrots are necessarily illegal parrot species in the USA, but the vast majority of wild-caught parrots are prohibited from import for commercial purposes. The Wild Bird Conservation Act (WBCA) of 1992 largely bans the import of most wild-caught birds, including parrots, into the United States. There are very limited exceptions, primarily for scientific research or zoological breeding programs under strict permits, making it extremely rare and difficult to legally acquire a wild-caught parrot as a pet.