Finding local bird breeders can be a great way to buy birds from ethical sources, get advice on caring for birds, and connect with the birding community. With some research and networking, you can locate reputable breeders near you. Here are tips on how to find local bird breeders in your area.
Search Online Directories
One of the easiest ways to find local bird breeders is to search online directories. Many bird clubs, breeder associations, and avicultural societies have member directories on their websites. You can search by location to find breeders that are closest to you. Some examples of directories to check include:
- The American Federation of Aviculture breeder directory
- Local bird club breeder lists
- State aviculture society breeder lists
- Parrot Alert breeder listings
When searching these directories, pay attention to any reviews, credentials, or certifications that the breeders have. This can help you gauge their reputation and experience level.
Check Bird Fair Lists
Many local bird fairs and expos publish lists of the vendors that will have booth space at the event. Oftentimes, many vendors are local breeders. So reviewing the vendor list for an upcoming bird fair in your area can show you breeders that are geographically close to you.
You can then visit their booths at the fair to talk with them in person and get more information about their breeding practices. Some well-known bird fairs to look for include:
- Florida West Coast Bird Fair
- North American Parrot Society Convention
- Southern California Bird Expo
- Midwest Bird Expo
Ask at Local Pet Stores
Stop by independently-owned pet stores in your area and ask the staff if they know of any local bird breeders. Mom-and-pop pet stores are often plugged into the local bird community and may be able to refer you to breeders they work with or know.
Let the staff know what type of bird you are interested in getting so they can make recommendations based on the breed. For example, ask about parrot breeders specifically if you hope to get a parrot.
Search Local Classifieds
Local classifieds websites like Craigslist and community bulletins can have listings from backyard bird breeders in your vicinity. You can browse the pet sections and “farm & garden” areas for people advertising birds for sale.
However, use caution and thoroughly vet any breeders you find through classifieds before purchasing a bird from them. Make sure to see their facilities in person and ask questions to determine if they are reputable.
Reach Out to Vets
Avian vets and veterinary offices that specialize in birds are plugged into the local bird community. Call nearby bird vet offices and ask if they have any breeder clients they recommend.
Vets who have treated birds from local breeders can speak to the health, temperament, and condition of the birds. This gives you assurance you are connecting with ethical breeding operations.
Join Local Bird Groups
From bird walking groups to parrot clubs, joining local birding and aviculture groups is a great way to network and get breeder recommendations. Attend meetings and get to know members to discover if any members themselves breed birds.
Also pay attention to any breeder advertisements in the group’s newsletter or website. Reputable groups will be selective about the breeders that they allow to advertise.
Some places to find local bird groups include:
- Meetup.com
- Facebook groups
- Online forums like Birdboard.com
- Pet store bulletin boards
Search Social Media
Social media can also be a useful for finding bird breeders. Search for terms like “parrot breeders near me” or “[your city] bird breeders” on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
You can also search hashtags like #birdsforsale, #parrotbreeder, or #budgiebreeder. Look for breeders that have strong reviews and an established social media presence.
Attend Bird Shows and Expos
One of the best ways to meet local breeders face-to-face is by attending bird shows and expos in your region. These shows allow you to talk with breeders, see the types of birds they breed, and get a feel for their experience level.
Some shows to look for include:
- American Federation of Aviculture annual convention
- Hookbill Headquarters bird show
- North American Parrot Society regional shows
- Local parrot club bird shows
Search online bird show calendars to find upcoming shows near you. Introduce yourself to breeders at these events and start networking.
Questions to Ask Local Bird Breeders
Once you have found some local bird breeders, take time to thoroughly interview them and ask key questions before deciding to make a purchase. Here are some important questions to ask:
How long have you been breeding birds?
Look for breeders with several years of experience breeding the specific species you want. Breeding requirements can vary greatly between different parrot species, for example. An experienced breeder will be well-versed in the nuances.
What species of birds do you focus on breeding?
Some breeders specialize in just one or two bird species, while others breed a wider variety. Choose a breeder that concentrates on breeding the species you want. Their expertise will be deeper.
Do you belong to any breeder associations or avicultural societies?
Reputable breeders often are members of professional associations that uphold breeding ethics and standards. This includes groups like the American Federation of Aviculture.
May I visit your aviary and meet your breeding birds in-person?
Responsible local breeders will allow and encourage visits to see their operations firsthand. Visiting lets you view the health of their breeding stock and facility conditions.
Do you quarantine and vet test new birds before adding them to your aviary?
Vet testing and quarantining helps prevent disease spread. Breeders committed to bird health will have these procedures in place.
Will the birds come with a health certificate from an avian vet?
Health certificates help provide assurance that the birds have been properly vetted for infectious diseases and parasites before ownership transfer.
What is your handfeeding process?
Find out specifics on the supplements and formulas used, feeding schedules, and weaning practices. High-quality handfeeding is key for healthy baby birds.
Can you provide references from past bird buyers?
Reputable breeders should be able to provide some references from satisfied customers. Speaking with references is a great way to get candid reviews.
What is your guarantee or return policy?
Many breeders offer health guarantees covering issues that arise shortly after purchase. However, guarantees vary greatly. Understand the specific terms the breeder offers.
Do you offer any post-purchase support or guidance?
The best breeders will provide support after you take your new bird home, such as help with training and care. This shows their commitment to the birds’ wellbeing.
Signs of a Good Bird Breeder
When evaluating local bird breeders, look for these signs that indicate responsible, ethical practices:
- Keeps their aviaries clean and well-maintained
- Provides birds with adequate space, toys, and enrichment
- Has top-notch facilities for quarantining and handfeeding baby birds
- Performs vet testing and health checks before breeding and selling birds
- Is knowledgeable about genetics and scientifically selective when breeding
- Focuses on temperament and health over cosmetic traits
- Asks you questions to ensure their birds will go to a good home
- Is transparent and willing to address any concerns or questions
- Offers guidance and support after bird purchases
- Has strong relationships with avian veterinarians
These signs indicate that a breeder prioritizes bird health, proper care and ethics over profits.
Potential Red Flags with Bird Breeders
Watch for these red flags when evaluating local bird breeders:
- Refuses to allow aviary visits or viewing of breeding stock
- Breeds many different exotic species (raises question of expertise)
- Advertises many baby birds available at once (may indicate overbreeding)
- Breeds birds with genetic defects or health issues
- Sells unweaned baby birds
- Does not health test or vet birds
- Cannot provide references from past buyers
- Cages and aviaries are dirty and cramped
- Does not ask questions or screen buyers
Breeders demonstrating some of these red flags may be unethical and best avoided.
Questions Prospective Bird Buyers Should Be Prepared to Answer
Just as you will question potential breeders, reputable breeders will also ask questions to ensure their birds are properly placed. Be prepared to answer questions like:
- Have you owned this type of bird before? Do you have experience caring for birds with similar needs?
- Who will be the primary caretaker for this bird?
- How many other pets do you have in your household currently?
- Does any family member have allergies to birds or dander?
- What food, toys, and cages will the bird have?
- Do you have an avian vet selected to provide care for this bird?
- What arrangements will you make for the bird when you travel?
- Do you understand the noise levels and mess that may come with this species?
- Are you prepared for the lifespan commitment this bird species requires?
- Have you birdproofed your home?
Answer honestly so the breeder can decide if the match is appropriate. Your priorities should align on ensuring the lifelong wellbeing of the birds.
Conclusion
Finding local ethical bird breeders is well worth the effort to locate a happy, health bird and establish relationships within the bird community. Be patient, do thorough research and vetting, and develop connections. Partnering with reputable local breeders sets the stage for an enriching bird companionship.