Be a responsible bird owner

Every year, hundreds of pet birds, mostly parrots are reported missing in Aotearoa New Zealand (Margaret Stanley et al. January 2023). This is especially common in summer, when doors and windows are often left open.

Escaped parrots can become more than just lost pets. Once free, they may compete with native birds for food and nesting sites and can also spread diseases to our vulnerable native parrot species. Even a single escaped bird has the potential to seriously impact local ecosystems in the long term.

What experts recommend

• Plan for the long term: Before choosing a pet bird, research its needs carefully & be honest with yourself about whether you can provide that. Many parrots can live for decades and require a high level of daily care and social interaction.
• Keep them secure: Always ensure your bird is securely contained so it cannot escape even during cleaning, playtime, or when windows and doors are open.
• Never free-fly: Free-flying pet parrots, even under supervision, greatly increases the risk of escape and future impact on the environment.
• Rehome responsibly: If you can no longer care for your bird, never release it into the wild. Instead, find a responsible new owner or contact a bird rescue centre, such as Be Kind Exotic Animal rescue.

Why this matters

Our native bird species are already under threat from habitat loss, predators and disease. Escaped pet birds add additional pressure (especially if your pet is an invasive species in the wild), potentially displacing native birds and introducing new health risks. By being a responsible bird owner, you help protect the unique avian biodiversity of Tāmaki Makaurau and support the survival of our native species.

Although your pet bird plays an important role in its homeland’s ecosystems, they don’t belong in the wild spaces of Aotearoa New Zealand. Some are actually classified as pest species in Auckland – check here (Tiaki Pest Search)