Ban the Keeping of all Pet Birds in the UK

The Issue

Every year, hundreds of thousands of birds—parrots, cockatiels, budgies, finches, owls, even native species—are bred, trafficked, and traded in the UK. Most end up in cages, often in solitary confinement. Parrots can live for over 60 years behind bars. 

The UK plays a major role in both the legal and illegal bird trade, yet this reality is hidden from public view. We point fingers at other countries for wildlife exploitation while ignoring the suffering happening here in the UK.

We are We Rescue Animals—professionals with decades of experience in wildlife conservation, veterinary medicine, and direct rescue. After working hands-on with countless birds trapped in the pet trade, we know the truth: no amount of regulation can make caging birds acceptable.

Birds are born to fly, to live in flocks, to express natural behaviours. In captivity, they face extreme stress, frustration, and loneliness. Many self-mutilate, pluck their feathers, or die from poor diets, untreated disease, or neglect. Minimum standards for their care are poor, rarely enforced, and utterly inadequate.

That is why we are demanding a complete and immediate ban on the keeping and sale of all birds in the UK. No loopholes. No exceptions. Nothing less than freedom for all birds from cages. (Sanctuary exceptions will be put into place with very strict oversight and regulation. With strict enforcement)

By signing this petition, you are standing for compassion, freedom, and a future where no bird lives behind bars for human gain.

Join us. Add your voice. Together, we can end the bird trade.

avatar of the starter
Paul O'DonoghuePetition StarterWildlife Biologist and Conservationist with a real passion for Animal welfare. Committed to stopping the unnecessary suffering of captive animals.

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The Issue

Every year, hundreds of thousands of birds—parrots, cockatiels, budgies, finches, owls, even native species—are bred, trafficked, and traded in the UK. Most end up in cages, often in solitary confinement. Parrots can live for over 60 years behind bars. 

The UK plays a major role in both the legal and illegal bird trade, yet this reality is hidden from public view. We point fingers at other countries for wildlife exploitation while ignoring the suffering happening here in the UK.

We are We Rescue Animals—professionals with decades of experience in wildlife conservation, veterinary medicine, and direct rescue. After working hands-on with countless birds trapped in the pet trade, we know the truth: no amount of regulation can make caging birds acceptable.

Birds are born to fly, to live in flocks, to express natural behaviours. In captivity, they face extreme stress, frustration, and loneliness. Many self-mutilate, pluck their feathers, or die from poor diets, untreated disease, or neglect. Minimum standards for their care are poor, rarely enforced, and utterly inadequate.

That is why we are demanding a complete and immediate ban on the keeping and sale of all birds in the UK. No loopholes. No exceptions. Nothing less than freedom for all birds from cages. (Sanctuary exceptions will be put into place with very strict oversight and regulation. With strict enforcement)

By signing this petition, you are standing for compassion, freedom, and a future where no bird lives behind bars for human gain.

Join us. Add your voice. Together, we can end the bird trade.

avatar of the starter
Paul O'DonoghuePetition StarterWildlife Biologist and Conservationist with a real passion for Animal welfare. Committed to stopping the unnecessary suffering of captive animals.

The Decision Makers

Environment Minister- Steve Barclay
Environment Minister- Steve Barclay

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Petition created on 13 March 2024