JAN 16, 2021 — 

To my fellow bird lovers, feathered allies, and exotic bird owners, As the founder of the non-profit Majestic Wings Rescue, I am devoted to the life long care of unwanted, abused, neglected, and behaviorally challenged birds. I have had the disadvantage of seeing how South Carolina’s legal system does not have adequate laws to protect birds or their owners. South Carolina has the seventh highest rate of animal cruelty in the country. It’s time for South Carolina to adopt a more stringent animal welfare law that contains verbiage that protects our feathered friends by making it a requirement that all breeders, rescues, and owners abide by regulations that outline proper housing, ventilation, lighting, cleaning and sanitation, pest control, feeding and watering, veterinary care, handling, and transportation. The Federal Animal Welfare Act states “The term “animal” means any live or dead dog, cat, monkey (nonhuman primate mammal), guinea pig, hamster, rabbit, or such other warm-blooded animal, as the Secretary may determine is being used, or is intended for use, for research, testing, experimentation, or exhibition purposes, or as a pet; but such term excludes (1) birds,…” The AWA also states nothing “limits any State or local law or regulation protecting the welfare of animals; or prevents a State or unit of local government from adopting and enforcing an animal welfare law or regulation that is more stringent than this section.” We also need to see protection from theft for avian owners. Parrot theft is a continuous issue is South Carolina. Section 16-13-60 of Title 16 only states it is “unlawful for any person to steal a dog …” Separation from a parrot’s owner(s) can cause the bird anxiety, depression, and can lead to plucking, PTSD, loss of appetite, and self-harm. Parrot theft is a painful experience for feathered loved ones and the entire flock. We need better theft laws to protect birds, their owners, and lead to a faster return home. Please sign this petition so we can show that we want to see a change in South Carolina’s laws. Our animal friends deserve more protection!

Great Thanks to Bea Miller for helping revise this proposed bill