Question 1

I’ve loved parrots since I was young and would like to get one. They are too expensive in pet stores, so I would like to adopt one from a sanctuary.

We thank you for your offer to adopt. The ASAP receives birds from government bodies, either as seizures, due to poor living conditions or pending identification of the rightful owner. For legal reasons we cannot function like the Society for the Protection of Animals which sells captured dogs and cats (domesticated animals). Parrots are CAPTIVE wild animals which require a traceability of origin. As of today, the ASAP cannot therefore put birds up for adoption or place them in a guest home.

Question 2

I would like to get a parrot. Can you give me a list of breeders?

The ASAP does not maintain a list of breeders. 

Question 3 

Why can’t the sanctuary’s parrots be returned to Nature?

The parrots that we receive in our centre are often in a fragile state. As they are often born in captivity, returning them to their country of origin would condemn them to death, either during transport or upon arrival. They would not adapt to the environment since they have only known captivity and contact with human beings.

Question 4

I would like to get a parrot but I don’t know what “breed” to select: African grey parrot, Amazon parrot or Cockatoo?

The term to use with birds is “species” and not “breed.” For this type of advice, we prefer that you call us at 01 34 83 56 52. The purchase of a parrot must take into account the environment of the future owners; each situation is unique. It will be difficult to ask you questions via email; the easiest will be if we communicate verbally.

Question 5

I have had my parrot for three months. Do I need to vaccinate it as with a dog or a cat?

No vaccine exists specifically for parrots but we advise you to have your veterinarian conduct a Psittacosis test and a Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) test, if the breeder or seller has not already done so. For more details, consult our special information sheets on the “Health” page. It is advisable to take your parrot to annual check-ups to verify its good health. Do not wait until your parrot is sick before going to see your veterinarian. Signs of illness in a bird (curling up in a ball, no longer sitting on its perch, eating less, etc.) appear very late. Prevention is better than running and acting late and urgently.

Question 6

I am going to Spain on vacation and would like to take my parrot with me. What papers do I need to obtain?

For countries in the European Community (EC) you must travel with your parrot’s transfer certificate (certificat de cession) which includes the name of the species in Latin and the ring number which proves its ownership as well as a health certificate from your veterinarian produced a maximum of 48 hours prior to your departure.