How do they ship live birds?

Transporting live birds from one location to another can be a complex process that requires careful planning and preparation. There are many factors to consider when shipping live birds, including the type of birds being transported, the distance they will travel, and regulations for transporting live animals. Despite the challenges, millions of live birds are shipped around the world every year for purposes like agricultural use, zoos, or as pets.

Preparing birds for transport

Before birds can be shipped, they need to be prepared to ensure they remain healthy and safe during transit. Here are some key steps involved:

• Health checks – Birds are examined by a veterinarian to confirm they are fit for travel. Blood tests may be conducted to check for disease.
• Food and water withdrawal – Birds are taken off feed and water for 6-12 hours before transport. This helps prevent motion sickness and soiling of transport containers.
• Placing in transport containers – Specially designed ventilated containers or crates are used to hold each bird or small groups. The containers protect the birds and prevent escape.
• Paperwork – Health certificates, veterinary documents, and other paperwork is necessary to comply with regulations.

Proper preparation helps minimize stress and keeps birds in optimal condition before and during transport. Sick or weak birds should not be shipped unless absolutely necessary.

Transport methods and containers

There are a few main methods used for shipping live birds:

• Air transport – Airlines ship millions of live birds domestically and internationally every year. Small birds travel in containers with specially designed feeders and perches. Larger birds may travel individually in larger crates.
• Ground transport – For shorter distances, climate-controlled trucks are used to transport crated birds by road. Trains also sometimes transport birds across land.
• Ships – Maritime transport is used for some international bird shipments. Seafaring vessels can accommodate large quantities of birds.

The most common shipping containers used include:

• Cardboard boxes – Disposable cardboard boxes work for short trips. Boxes have ventilation holes and are lined with absorbent material.
• Plastic crates – Reusable, sturdy plastic crates are ideal for most bird transport. They come in different sizes with built-in perches and feeding/watering ports.
• Modified cages – Some modified bird cages or coops serve as suitable transport containers for larger birds.

Proper crates or boxes keep birds secure, allow for inspection during transit, provide ventilation and protection, and sometimes facilitate feeding and watering if needed.

Regulations and paperwork

Extensive regulations apply to the shipment of live birds, which are considered animals. Here are some important regulatory considerations:

• Permits – Import and export permits approved by the relevant government authorities are required for international bird transport.
• Health certificates – Veterinary health certificates attesting to the health of the birds must accompany all shipments.
• Endangered species – Special endangered species permits are mandatory for transporting threatened or exotic bird species.
• Quarantine – Birds may need to undergo quarantine before or after shipment to control disease.
• Reporting – Shippers may have to file paperwork about bird mortality occurring during transport.

Failure to comply with applicable regulations can result in substantial penalties, shipment delays or seizures, and bans from future transport. Experienced bird shippers are familiar with all rules.

Providing for health and safety

Proper precautions must be taken during transport to keep birds healthy and safe. Here are some important considerations:

• Stocking density – Adequate space and ventilation is crucial. Stocking density rules dictate appropriate bird numbers per container size.
• Shelter – Padding, absorbent material, and perches allow birds to rest comfortably.
• Temperature control – Climate control systems maintain suitable temperatures.
• Food and water – For longer trips, special feeders and waterers provide needed nourishment.
• Inspection – Shipments are periodically inspected to check bird condition.
• Biosecurity – Strict protocols prevent spread of disease. Transport crates are sanitized between shipments.

Careful handling and close monitoring throughout the shipment process reduces injury, mortality, and other transportation risks.

Special considerations by bird

Specific factors must be considered depending on the type of bird being shipped:

Chickens

• Common for agricultural use
• Transported as day-old chicks
• Shipped in ventilated boxes in large numbers
• Require temperature regulation and hydration

Turkeys

• Usually young “poults” under 4 weeks old
• Boxes have feeders and waters
• Adults transported individually in larger crates

Parrots

• Transported in individual, sturdy plastic containers
• Perches, toys, and padding add comfort
• Climate control regulates temperature
• May require acclimation to prevent thermal shock

Raptors

• Often shipped hooded to reduce stress
• Thick leather jesses prevent injury
• Permits required for many species
• May be tranquilized by veterinarian first

Requirements can vary significantly depending on factors like the size, rarity, and temperament of the birds.

Minimizing transit duration

A shorter transit time reduces risks and stress on birds. Here are some tips for minimizing duration:

• Direct routing – Use direct flights or routes to minimize stops and total travel time.
• Priority handling – Shipments are marked as priority or express cargo.
• Climate considerations – Avoid extremes of hot and cold that require acclimation.
• No weekends – Schedule shipments to avoid sitting over weekends.
• Preclearance – Arranging paperwork preclearance can prevent customs delays.

A good carrier stays updated on weather or other factors that could cause shipment delays or routing changes.

Arrival and post-shipment care

Proper procedures must also be followed once birds reach their destination:

• Inspection – Birds are examined for signs of injury or illness after arrival.
• Acclimation – Gradual reintroduction to food, water, and climate conditions.
• Quarantine – Isolation for several days up to weeks to monitor for disease.
• Veterinary care – Any birds with health issues receive swift treatment.
• Biosecurity – Strict sanitation prevents disease transmission to resident flocks.

Efficient post-shipment care allows birds to recover from transport stress and remain in good health.

Cost considerations

Shipping live birds can incur a variety of costs, including:

• Documentation fees for permits, health certificates, etc.
• Quarantine and testing fees including veterinary expenses
• Freight transport fees that vary by carrier, distance, and bird volume
• Fuel or energy surcharges added by carriers
• Customs clearance and inspection fees
• Crate rental or purchase costs
• Insurance costs in case of bird injury or death

For large commercial shipments, birds themselves can represent a high cost. Certain exotic or rare bird species also have exceptionally high value. Factoring in all costs ahead of time ensures the shipper has sufficient budget.

Approximate shipping cost ranges:

Costs scale dramatically with larger bird volumes and longer distances. Overseas shipments are most expensive.

Selecting an avian shipper

Choosing an experienced avian shipper is essential for safe live bird transport. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a company:

• Specialization – They should focus specifically on bird transport rather than general cargo.
• Training – Personnel should be knowledgeable about bird handling, welfare, and regulations.
• Reputation – Look for experienced companies with a strong track record.
• Technology – They should use advanced containers, climate control, and monitoring.
• Compliance – The company should have an excellent compliance record with no violations.
• Global reach – For international shipping, they must have broad logistics networks.
• Transparency – Costs, timelines, and processes should be clearly explained.

A top avian shipping company will provide safe, humane, and professional bird transport with minimal risks or complications.

Conclusion

Transporting live birds over long distances is complex yet vitally important. With careful planning and preparation using appropriate containers and vehicles, millions of birds are shipped globally each year. Strict regulations protect bird welfare during transit. While costly, specialized avian shippers minimize the risks of injury, illness, or mortality. When done properly, birds can arrive safely at their destination to thrive in their new home.