I've had quite a few people contact me asking if I would consider shipping my babies. I know many of the members on here have had birds shipped to them, how does this work? Is it pretty stressful on the birds? What are the chances of picking up diseases? The last thing I want to do is put any of my babies in danger, advice?
Much depends upon the bird....meaning some states require quarantine of the birds, and some won't allow it period state to state transfer. Check the states codes, and ask a vet. There are transfer papers a vet usually should have.
The stress would be if you violate state codes and unexpectedly have bird quarantined...this could take a few weeks to clear up. And where is the bird in meantime thru it all? How is it treated during this all.....If you are traveling by air, you need to purchase an airline-approved carrier. For your pet bird to be able to ride in the cabin with you, the carrier needs to fit under your seat. Contact your airline for the proper carrier measurements.
If you are traveling to another state, check with that state’s Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and a state veterinarian to confirm that your bird’s species is allowed. Certain species, namely
quaker parrots, are illegal to possess and travel within several states; authorities have the jurisdiction to confiscate your bird if found. Also, if the state you are traveling in has issued a quarantine on parrots and other avian species, your bird might be at risk for being confiscated. Before traveling state-to-state, get an interstate veterinary health certificate from your veterinarian at least 10 days prior to traveling.
International travel is very difficult to do with your bird and it takes a long time (often a year) to gather all the necessary paperwork. You have to obtain a Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) permit that must be validated by the USFWS. You must also check with the other country’s rules about entry with exotic pets. Some countries require additional paperwork and permits. Some do not allow the transport of exotic animals, due to fear of the avian flu.
I know for a fact some states won't allow transfer of budgies and are strick on that.