Pet Travel Expert

I have a Nanday conure and I am planning on returning to England from the USA. What are the requirements to take my pet bird with me?  Thanks, Lynne

Moving pet birds can be quite difficult, especially these days given the avian influenza concerns.  While it is possible to take a pet bird from the United States to England, it can require a lot of pre-move paperwork and documentation.

First, you will want to determine if your bird is a CITES species parrot.  CITES stands for the "Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, and is designed to protect exotic animals (like parrots, tortoises and reptiles) from damaging over-trading.  Nearly every parrot with the exception of the budgie and cockatiel are listed on the CITES database -- some are more strictly governed than others.  You will most likely need a CITES export permit from the US as well as a CITES import permit from England.

Secondly, you will need to check with England's DEFRA, which governs the import of pets and animals.  They have an entire portion of their site dedicated to importing and exporting pet birds. They will give you the import regulations for pet birds (which will likely include pre-export bird flu tests, health certificate requirements, as well as a post-import quarantine).

Also needing to sign off on a bird export from the US is the US Fish & Wildlife services to complete the following:

1. Obtain a valid permit from the Division of Management Authority, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Applications for permits must be received in that office at least 60-90 days in advance of anticipated travel.

2. Have your permit validated by a Fish and Wildlife Service Wildlife Inspector before you leave the United States. (Instructions will be provided on the permit.)

3. Take a copy of your validated permit with you. This copy must be presented when you re-enter the United States with your pet.

4. Find out whether the country(ies) you plan to visit have additional import and export requirements and restrictions. At a minimum, a re-export certificate from the country(ies) visited will be required.

The Division of Management Authority can provide you with a contact address, phone or fax number for CITES permits offices in other countries. There are no restrictions on the length of time you may travel abroad or on the number of birds you may take with you.

Additionally, Lynne, PetRelocation.com is able to arrange your pet bird's move on your behalf, taking care of all of the permitting and flight bookings.  If you're interested in getting a quote for our door-to-door pet transport services, please fill out our quote request form and one of our service consultants will be in touch.