Importing a Parrot to the US

[Paul_in_Qatar]

In the event Onan, my African Gray ever wanted to return to the US with me, how would I go about it?

Parrots carry Newcastle Disease, which is dangerous to chickens. I presume there is a hefty quarantine. May I also presume there is a company somewhere that specializes in this sort of thing?

[Kimstu]

Here’s yer helpful guide to bringing pet birds into the US. Yup, it involves major red tape concerning quarantine, veterinary health certificates, and federal permits.

[Monty]

From the above link, it looks as though it’s possible to bring the bird into the US with little hassle provided you did some of the paperwork in advance.

Pet birds originating in the United States may be re-imported without being quarantined if they are accompanied by a United States veterinary health certificate and, if necessary, a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This health certificate must be obtained prior to departure from the United States and must include a leg band or tattoo number.

[Paul_in_Qatar]

Thank you. I think I mislead you. He is an African-origin wild-caught bird. Still an excellent link.

[capybara]

Ah, yeah, you’d need a CITES certificate, and if he’s wild-caught, little chance. We’ve been moving back and forth between Canada and the US with our Jardine’s a there was a metric assload of paperwork, and part of it was that we had to prove to some standard that he was hatched int he US.

[Duckster]

The Wild Bird Conservation Act was enacted in October 23, 1992, to ensure that exotic bird species are not harmed by international trade. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) may issue permits to allow import of listed birds for scientific research, zoological breeding or display, or personal pet purposes when the applicant meets certain criteria. The FWS may approve cooperative breeding programs of WBCA-protected birds, and subsequent import permits under such breeding programs. The WBCA also encourages wild bird conservation programs in countries of origin. For example, wild-caught birds may be imported into the United States if they come from FWS-approved management plans for sustainable use of the species.

Source: http://www.fws.gov/international/permits/web%20list%20wbca.htm

The page goes into details, including links to official lists of what can be legally imported into the US.

[Paul_in_Qatar]

All in all, it looks as though I ought to start a year out.