How Any Bird Lover Can Help Protect Endangered Parrots

By Mary Bennett


Birds are truly beautiful creatures and they are so common in many areas that people do not realize that some species are as endangered as they are. Endangered parrots are a good example of this. There are so many different varieties of parrot that it may be surprising to learn that approximately one third of parrot species are actually endangered. If you don't want to see these beautiful creatures disappear, here is what you need to know about protecting 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.

Some species are being harder hit than others. You may want to look at supporting organizations that help to breed these particular types of birds so that they do not become extinct.

One characteristic that most parrots share is brightly colored plumage. This makes them stunning to look at. These birds also tend to be quite intelligent and many of them can be taught to mimic human speech. These things, coupled with longer life spans, make these birds very popular as pets even though the larger species can be quite expensive, especially if they are hand reared as babies.

A baby parrot can bring thousands of dollars depending on which species it is. Unfortunately, the fact that they bring high prices means they are very attractive to poachers. By working with a breeder rather than buying from a store, you can help slow the theft of baby birds from the wild and this, in turn, can help keep these birds from becoming extinct.

One thing that you can do to help protect these beautiful creatures is to be very careful where you get any birds that you add to your family. Researching breeders to make sure that they are actually offering domestically bred birds can be a good first step. Seeing where the birds are bred and raised can help you eliminate those that have been captured in the wild.

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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