IMO the important facts on wildlife harvesting are -
* There is a big public demand for human-imprinted pet birds (mostly
parrots and cockatoos).
* Most of the pet-bird-purchasing public do not realise that most of the
more common cockatoos and parrots sold in pet shops are in fact wild-trapped.
* Trapping of fledgling and adult birds inhibits aviculture by keeping
prices down.
* Wild-trapped adult or fledgling parrots and cockatoos make lousy pets
because they are too old to be imprinted or humanised and due to the
stresses involved in trapping, transportation and on-selling, succumb to
many acute and chronic health problems (eg. PBFD, chlamydiosis,
malnutrition, psychological vices etc).
* The typical bird owner is unwilling to invest time and money caring for
the cheap wild-trapped bird.
* Cheap trapped birds are more likely to be released by the unsatisifed
owner OR overzealous trapper.
* Trapping does not encourage farmers to plant trees or retain those with
suitable hollows.
There are two main issues. One is the welfare of the birds in relation to
the public demand. The other is the biological impact and sustainablity of
a harvesting programme.
Exportation is a separate issue and should not be prematurely entertained
by anyone.
-----------------------------------------
Dr Shane Raidal BVSc PhD MACVSc
Lecturer in Veterinary Pathology
Division of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences
Murdoch University
South Street Murdoch WA 6150
Australia
ph: +61 8 9360 2418
fx: +61 8 9310 4144
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