This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.
You can’t legally or ethically keep a wild bird as a pet.
It’s illegal in the U.S. to capture or possess native wild birds, as they’re protected by law for conservation.
Even accidentally harboring an injured wild bird is against the rules, apart from a few exceptions like starlings or pigeons.
Removing wild creatures from their natural habitats is unethical – they belong in the wild, not cages.
While you can keep captive-bred birds with leg bands, avian vets often refuse treatment for illegal wild pets.
To learn more about the few cases where you can legally care for certain birds, keep reading.
Table Of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Say "no" to caging a feathered friend from the wild – it’s a legal no-fly zone and robs our avian buddies of their rightful freedom in nature’s wide-open sky.
- While cuddly baby birds might melt your heart, think twice before playing parent. Leave any feathery foundlings be and notify the wildlife experts to give them the proper TLC.
- Sure, a few "rats with wings" like pigeons get a free pass for adoption. But for the vast majority of wild birds, it’s hands off – their home is the great outdoors, not your living room.
- Don’t ruffle any feathers by harboring an illegal avian amigo. Veterinarians and authorities frown upon treating wild-caught birds, so keep your wings on the right side of the law.
Can You Keep a Wild Bird as a Pet?
No, you can’t legally or ethically keep a wild bird as a pet. It’s generally illegal and unethical to remove wild birds from their natural habitats and keep them as pets, as this can be detrimental to the birds’ well-being and disrupt the ecosystem.
Legality of Keeping Wild Birds as Pets
You can’t legally keep a wild bird as a pet in the United States. It’s a felony to capture and possess native wild birds or any part of them, like feathers or eggshells.
This law protects wild bird conservation and animal welfare by preventing the pet trade from depleting wild populations through poaching. Even unintentionally harboring an injured wild bird can land you in hot water.
The only exceptions are invasive species like European Starlings, Pigeons, and House Sparrows. If you find an orphaned baby of those species, you can legally keep it—but all other wild birds must be left alone or surrendered to wildlife rehabilitators.
Falconry with captive-bred raptors requires special permits too. So can you keep a wild bird as a pet? Simply put, no.
Ethics of Keeping Wild Birds as Pets
Removing wild birds from their natural habitats and keeping them as pets is unethical and often illegal, especially for native songbird species in the United States. While captive-bred birds with metal bands may be kept legally, avian veterinarians frequently refuse to treat illegally obtained wild birds.
Unethical to Remove Wild Animals From Their Habitats
You wouldn’t want to cage a free creature. Wild birds belong in nature, not captivity. Removing them harms conservation efforts and their welfare.
Metal Bands Indicate Captive Breeding
If your pet parrot has metal bands, it’s captive-bred and legal. Wild, native songbirds can’t legally be pets. Check for bands before purchasing to guarantee ethical, lawful ownership.
Avian Vets May Refuse to Treat Wild Birds
Most avian vets will refuse to treat wild birds as it promotes unlawful wildlife possession and undermines conservation efforts. You’ll need documentation proving captive-bred origins to receive veterinary care.
Illegal to Keep Native Songbirds in the U.S
It’s illegal to keep native songbirds in the U.S. due to:
- Native bird conservation efforts
- Avoiding illegal bird trade
- Preventing habitat destruction
- Protecting endangered species
These laws safeguard our feathered friends—enjoy birdwatching responsibly instead.
Orphaned Baby Birds
If you encounter an orphaned baby bird, it’s essential to leave it alone and inform your local wildlife agency. However, there’s an exception for certain non-native species like European Starlings, Pigeons, or House Sparrows, which you may legally keep if orphaned.
Leave Orphaned Baby Birds Alone
If you find an orphaned baby bird, leave it alone. Baby bird development relies on minimal human interference. Wildlife rehabilitators have training to properly care for orphaned wildlife with environmental and ethical considerations in mind.
Notify Local Wildlife Agency
After leaving the orphaned baby bird alone, you must notify your local wildlife agency. With their expertise, they’ll make decisions ensuring the bird’s:
- Safety
- Proper care
- Ultimate release
Never attempt orphan bird care yourself without legal authorization. Let the professionals handle this sensitive situation under strict legal guidelines.
Legal to Keep Orphaned European Starlings, Pigeons, or Sparrows
If you do find an orphaned European starling, pigeon, or sparrow, it’s legal to keep them. But it’s essential to provide proper care, like adequate housing, food, and vet visits. Remember, even these common birds need specialized attention.
Falconry
For those interested in falconry, it’s crucial to recognize that birds of prey like falcons and hawks present extraordinary challenges in terms of proper care. In fact, falconry necessitates not only the acquisition of federal and state permits but also mentorship from an experienced falconer who can provide instruction on training these captive-bred raptors.
Birds of Prey Are Difficult to Care For
Taking on a bird of prey is a huge commitment. Their diets, need for exercise, specialized shelter, intense training, and socialization make them extremely challenging pets.
Falconry Involves Training Captive-Bred Falcons
Falconry involves training captive-bred falcons and hawks. It’s highly regulated due to:
- Conservation concerns
- Public safety
- Animal welfare
- Ancient tradition
- Specialized skills required
Captive breeding guarantees a sustainable, ethical source of birds for this sport.
Requires Sponsorship From Experienced Falconer
Engaging in falconry requires sponsorship from an experienced falconer, who’ll guide you through the captive breeding and falcon care processes. Their training guarantees you follow sponsorship regulations for this ancient sport.
Federal and State Permits Required
Engaging in falconry legally requires obtaining both federal and state permits. These laws aim to guarantee responsible, ethical falconry while protecting bird populations. Your experienced sponsor’s guidance in interpreting the regulations proves invaluable.
Warnings
You should never keep wild birds as pets, as it’s illegal and unethical to remove them from their natural habitats. Report any suspected cases of illegal bird ownership to the appropriate authorities to protect these vulnerable creatures.
Do Not Keep Wild Birds as Pets
Don’t keep wild birds as pets—it’s illegal and unethical. Consider:
- Emotional attachment issues
- Psychological impact on birds
- Cultural significance violations
- Environmental consequences
Wild birds belong in nature. Respect their freedom.
Report Illegal Bird Ownership
You must report illegal bird ownership. Protect wildlife by being a responsible citizen. Consequences like fines and jail await. Prioritize animal welfare.
| Reporting Illegal Ownership |
|---|
| Uphold the Law |
| Safeguard Nature |
| Prevent Animal Cruelty |
Handle Orphaned Birds Legally
Don’t try rehabilitating orphaned birds yourself. Identify the species legally and contact wildlife authorities for proper handling instructions.
Falconry is a Complex and Regulated Sport
Falconry is deeply rooted in history, governed by intricate laws, requiring intensive training, substantial costs, and commitment to caring for specialized birds of prey.
Seek Professional Guidance Before Engaging in Falconry
Falconry isn’t for beginners – seek professional guidance before pursuing this captive, bred sport. From sponsorship to permits, understand regulations thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do you properly care for a pet bird?
Like a moth to a flame, you’ll be drawn to properly caring for your feathered friend – provide a spacious cage, healthy diet, ample toys, and regular vet check-ups to keep them soaring.
What are the signs of a healthy pet bird?
A healthy pet bird should have bright, clear eyes; smooth, well-groomed feathers; an active demeanor; and regular eating and droppings. Monitor your bird closely for any changes that could indicate illness.
What are the most popular pet bird species?
You think pet birds are for the birds? Most popular are budgies, cockatiels, and parakeets – easy to tame and perfect for avian admirers. But keep this on the downlow: some wild ones make enchanting (if prohibited) companions.
How can you train and socialize a pet bird?
With patience and kindness, build trust through positive reinforcement and bonding activities like talking, petting, and giving treats. Let your feathered friend set the pace for taming and socialization.
What are the most common health issues in pet birds?
Sometimes, you notice your pet bird picking at feathers or acting lethargic. Common health issues include respiratory infections, feather plucking, and digestive problems(Source). Regular vet check-ups can prevent serious health complications.
Conclusion
Like the majestic falcon soaring above, the legalities and ethics surrounding whether you can keep a wild bird as a pet are clear.
Unless you obtain proper permits for regulated activities like falconry, it’s best to admire wild birds from afar.
Removing creatures from their natural habitats disrupts delicate ecosystems and deprives them of their birthright to roam freely.
Appreciate nature’s winged wonders without caging their spirits – the wild is where they truly belong.
