Georgia has laws and regulations regarding the ownership of exotic and wild animals, including birds. While some birds like parakeets, cockatiels and parrots are commonly kept as pets, others may require permits or licenses. Knowing what is legal or illegal can help bird enthusiasts explore their avian interests responsibly.
Overview of Bird Ownership Laws in Georgia
In Georgia, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) oversees laws regarding exotic and wild animals. The DNR defines wild animals as any animals that are not normally domesticated in Georgia. This includes big cats, bears, primates, venomous reptiles, and many species of birds.
Under Georgia law, a wild animal license is required to legally possess, import, transport, transfer or sell Class I or Class II animals. Class I animals include lions, tigers, leopards, snow leopards, clouded leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, cougars, and hybrids of these species. Class II animals include baboons, bears, rhinos, hippos, chimpanzees, gibbons, siamangs, Drills, Mandrills, Gorillas, Orangutans and a number of macaque species.
Birds are not included in Class I or Class II, but there are still regulations regarding owning, breeding and selling certain bird species in Georgia.
Birds That Are Legal to Own in Georgia
Many common pet bird species are legal to own in Georgia without any special permits. These include:
- Budgerigars (parakeets)
- Cockatiels
- Parrotlets
- Lovebirds
- Finches
- Canaries
- Cockatoos
- African greys
- Macaws
- Amazon parrots
- Conures
- Parrots
- Doves
- Pigeons
As long as they are not endangered or protected by federal law, the ownership of these species is unregulated in Georgia. However, some municipalities may have additional restrictions, so it’s best to check local ordinances as well.
Birds That Require Permits
While the species listed above can be owned without special permits, there are some birds that do require licenses or registration in Georgia, including:
- Eagles
- Hawks
- Falcons
- Owls
- Vultures
To legally possess any raptor species native to Georgia, a falconry permit is required. Falconry involves the sport of hunting with trained raptors. Permits involve regular facilities inspections, reporting requirements, and examinations.
For native migratory birds, like hummingbirds, a federal permit is required. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service oversees these permits that allow for rehabilitation, scientific collection, and other activities involving native wild birds.
Birds That Are Illegal to Own
There are some bird species that are completely banned for private ownership in Georgia. These include:
- Cassowary
- Emu
- Ostrich
- Rhea
- Any migratory bird (without USFWS permit)
- Any endangered or threatened species (without USFWS permit)
Cassowaries, emus, ostriches and rheas are large, aggressive flightless birds that pose safety risks for owners and the public. While they are popular novelty pets, possessing these birds in Georgia is prohibited without proper exhibitor or commercial licensing.
It is also illegal to possess any migratory bird or endangered/threatened species without proper federal licensing. Protected species like the red-cockaded woodpecker may not be owned as pets at all.
Buying and Selling Birds in Georgia
When it comes to buying or selling exotic birds in Georgia, there are also some important regulations:
- Pets stores must be licensed by the Department of Agriculture to sell exotic birds.
- Breeders with more than 5 female birds must obtain a bird breeder license.
- Any sales of wild birds native to Georgia require appropriate state and federal permits.
- Endangered species and migratory birds cannot be sold or purchased without authorization.
- Birds cannot be captured from the wild in Georgia for sale or personal use.
There are also general animal welfare laws that regulate the minimum caging sizes, sanitation, nutrition, socialization and veterinary care for birds sold through pet stores or breeders. Following these laws helps ensure captive birds remain healthy and cruelty-free.
Importing and Exporting Birds in Georgia
When bringing birds into Georgia from other states or countries, you must consider their legality:
- A certificate of veterinary inspection is required.
- Birds must be free of infectious diseases.
- A 30-day prior entry permit may be required for some bird species.
- Import of endangered species, Georgia native species, or diseased birds is prohibited.
Exporting native wild birds from Georgia requires appropriate state and federal licenses or permits. There are also federal regulations around exporting exotic bird species to ensure responsible trade and ownership.
Conclusion
Most common pet bird species like parakeets, cockatiels and parrots can be legally owned in Georgia without permits. However, native raptor species require falconry permits, while large exotic flightless birds are prohibited. Any purchase, sale, or import/export of native wild birds also requires proper licensing. Knowing the law helps bird lovers safely pursue this rewarding hobby.
Overall, Georgia takes both an open yet regulated approach to exotic bird ownership. Regulations aim to conserve native wildlife, protect public safety and human health, and ensure ethical treatment of the birds themselves. Responsible owners should familiarize themselves with all state and federal laws before acquiring a new avian companion.
