The UK has a vibrant aviculture (bird breeding) community, with many species of birds available for purchase as pets or livestock. While certain birds like pigeons, chickens, and ducks are commonly kept, there are also more exotic species that can be bought from specialist avian stores or breeders. This article will provide an overview of the types of birds that can be purchased in the UK, along with key information on their suitability as pets, housing requirements, and legal status.
Poultry
Many common barnyard birds can be purchased in the UK, including:
Chickens
Chickens are arguably the most popular poultry bird kept in the UK. They are kept for both eggs and meat, and make good pets too. There are over 200 chicken breeds to choose from, with different size, plumage, egg laying and temperament traits. Some popular breeds include:
– Hybrid egg laying strains – these have been selectively bred for maximum egg production, laying up to 300 eggs per year. Examples are the Black Rock, Lohmann Brown and ISA Brown.
– Ornamental breeds – these are bred for their attractive plumage and appearances, rather than egg laying abilities. Examples include Silkies, Polish, and the handsome Modern Game bird.
– Dual purpose traditional breeds – these are moderate egg layers but also raised for meat. Breeds like the Rhode Island Red, Orpington and Sussex are common.
Chickens can be bought as day old chicks, started pullets ready to lay, or mature birds. Prices range from £2-15 per bird depending on breed and age. Basic housing and care are required.
Ducks
The most popular ducks breeds kept in the UK are Indian Runners, Khaki Campbells, Calls, Cayugas, and Pekins. They are kept for both meat and egg production. Most duck breeds are moderately prolific layers, producing 150-200 creamy colored eggs per year. Duck breeds have distinct personalities – Indian Runners are active foragers while Pekins are calm and docile. Ducks require access to water for swimming and need housing safe from predators. Prices range from £5-25 depending on breed and age.
Geese
Goose breeds farmed in the UK include the Embden, Toulouse, Sebastopol, Chinese, and African. Geese produce meat and fatty livers for foie gras. They lay moderate amounts of very large eggs. Goose breeds vary in size and temperament. Larger breeds like the Embden can be aggressive and noisy. Geese need grazing areas and ponds. Prices range from £20-100 per gosling.
Quail
Coturnix quail are small birds raised for eggs and meat. Their housing and feed requirements are minimal. Quail start laying eggs at 8-10 weeks old and are prolific layers. Popular breeds include Texas A&M, Pharaoh, and Japanese. Quail cost £2-5 per bird and are sometimes sold in batches of fertilized eggs for hatching.
Pigeons
Pigeons are kept for racing, shows, and as pets. Popular breeds are Racing Homers, Fantails, Pouters, and fancy Tumblers. Racing pigeons can cost hundreds of pounds but show breeds range from £15-60 per pair. Basic housing like a pigeon loft is required. Pigeons are active flyers that breed readily when kept in pairs.
Caged Birds
There is a wide selection of small exotic bird species available for sale as pets in the UK. Some popular caged birds include:
Budgerigars
Commonly called budgies, these small parakeets are one of the most popular pet birds in the world. They come in myriad colors and patterns thanks to extensive breeding. Budgies are active and acrobatic flyers. Their care is fairly straightforward for such a small bird. Budgies cost around £15-40 depending on color mutations.
Cockatiels
Cockatiels are slightly larger parrots native to Australia. They are often crested and available in color mutations like pied, pearl, albino and more. Cockatiels can mimic speech and bond closely with owners. Their care requirements are minimal for a small parrot. Cost is £30-90 each.
Lovebirds
As their name suggests, these small parrots form close bonds with mates and owners. Agapornis lovebirds come in 9 colorful species. They are busy, active birds that constantly chew and play. Lifespan is 10-15 years. Lovebirds range from £30-100 depending on rarity.
Parrotlets
Parrotlets are tiny parrots under 5 inches long. They pack a huge personality into a small body and are full of spunk and energy. Common species available include Pacific, Spectacled, and Yellow-faced. Their tiny size makes them suitable for apartment living. Cost is £70-150 per bird.
Finches
These brightly colored songbirds are lively and social. Species like zebra finches, society finches, and Gouldian finches are commonly kept. Finches have minimal care needs when kept in small flocks. Price is £5-30 per finch depending on rarity.
Canaries
There are several types of canary breeds bred for their lovely songs and bright yellow plumage. Common varieties include American Singers, German Rollers, Waterslager, and Border Fancy. Canaries are tamer than finches and some will learn tunes. Cost is £20-100 per bird.
Birds of Prey
Birds of prey like falcons, hawks, and owls can be kept in UK with proper licenses and facilities. Some examples include:
Harris Hawks
These social raptors are the most popular bird of prey for falconry. Their comradery with humans makes them suitable for hunting and display. Price is £400-1000 for a breeding pair. Harris hawks require outdoor weathering facilities and hunting opportunities.
Eurasian Eagle Owls
The largest owl species capable of taking large prey like foxes and hares. Their impressive size and horns make them desirable display birds. Price is £1000-2500 for a captive bred owl. Large outdoor enclosures mandatory. Taking birds off property requires permits.
Peregrine Falcons
The fastest animal on Earth, peregrines can reach 200mph in a hunting dive. Displaying these birds is exciting. Price is £1500-5000 for a breeding pair. Permitting is strict for taking peregrines off-site to fly.
European Barn Owls
A protected species in the UK, barn owls are in demand for natural rodent control. A license is required to house captive bred birds. Price is £300-800 per bird. Must prove owls are being used for agricultural purposes.
Raptor Breeding & Exotic Pet Regulations
Breeding native UK raptor species like owls, falcons, and hawks requires permits. Many exotic bird species are protected by CITES regulations and require import/export permits. Sellers must prove captive bred lineage for exotic birds. Always check regulations before acquiring restricted bird species.
Selecting a Pet Bird
When selecting a pet bird, consider:
– Noise – Larger parrots are noisy. Finches and quail are quieter. Canaries and parrotlets are moderately loud.
– Mess – Birds drop food and feathers. Larger birds create bigger messes. Use cages with debris guards.
– Care Time – Larger parrots need hours of daily interaction and enrichment. Finches and quail require less hands-on time.
– Lifespan – Small birds like budgies live 5-10 years. Large parrots can live 60+ years. Make sure you can provide lifetime care.
– Veterinary Care – Avian vets are essential for optimum health. Ensure you have access to a qualified bird vet.
– Housing – All birds need sufficiently sized cages and/or flight areas. Ensure you can provide enough space.
Do ample research to find a bird species suited to your lifestyle and commitment level before acquiring any new pet.
Buying Captive Bred vs Wild Caught Birds
When sourcing pet birds, captive bred specimens are strongly recommended over wild caught birds for these reasons:
– Wild populations are not depleted when buying captive bred birds. Many wild bird populations are under pressure.
– Captive bred birds are already accustomed to humans and captivity. Wild caught birds often fail to thrive.
– Captive bred birds are less stressed by domestic life. Transport is easier on birds bred locally.
– Domestic bred birds are less prone to carrying diseases. Wild caught birds risk introducing pathogens.
– Lineage and age is traceable for captive bred birds. Wild caught bird origins are unknown.
– Legally sourced captive bred birds have documentation. Some wild bird trade is illegal or unethical.
For conservation reasons and animal welfare, it is prudent to avoid buying wild caught bird species unless you can absolutely verify the seller’s credentials and legal standing.
Where to Buy Birds in the UK
Good options for sourcing pet birds ethically and safely include:
– Reputable avian stores and breeders – Research reviews and reputation carefully first. Visit facilities in person.
– Avian associations like the National Cage & Aviary Birds and Budgerigar Society – Members must adhere to codes.
– Bird auctions and bird marts for unique specimens from trusted vendors. Attend in person.
– Animal shelters and rescue organizations – Adopting rescues saves lives. Ensure health and temperament first.
– Fellow hobbyists like pigeon fanciers or aviary clubs – Offer rehoming opportunities
Avoid:
– Online ads from unverifiable sources – No way to confirm conditions birds are kept in. Often wild caught.
– Markets with live animals unless fully licensed – High risk of unethical treatment and disease transmission.
– International sellers online – Importing birds risks health issues and noncompliance with regulations.
Do thorough vetting before acquiring birds. An ethical, responsible breeder will welcome questions and provide documentation as well as health guarantees.
Housing Pet Birds
All pet bird species have basic housing requirements including:
– Appropriately sized enclosure – Large enough for flying, climbing and spreading wings.
– Proper perches – Natural wood branches and perches fit for the species. Various widths and heights.
– Cleanliness – Daily cleaning of droppings and food debris. Full disinfection periodically.
– Fresh air – Good ventilation without drafts. Outdoor aviaries offer fresh air.
– Lighting – Exposure to natural light cycles. No dark corners.
– Foraging opportunities – Provide toys, branches, baths. Rotated periodically to stimulate innate behaviors.
– Social interaction – Solitary species may require separate enclosures. Highly flocking species need companionship. Monitor for aggression and compatibility.
Do ample research into a specific bird species’ habitat needs before acquiring the pet. Provide housing that allows them to exhibit natural behaviors. Upgrade enclosures as a bird grows. An avian vet can advise on ideal housing dimensions.
Feeding Pet Birds
Birds have specialized dietary needs, so do your homework before acquiring a species.
Types of Bird Food
– Seed mix – Provide a quality mix with variety. Avoid unhealthy fillers.
– Pellets – Offer formulated pellets for balanced nutrition. Some birds prefer these.
– Produce – Chopped veggies and fruits. Research which are safe for your species.
– Grit – Crushed eggshells, oyster shell for calcium. Cuttlebones for small birds.
– Protein – Cooked eggs, mealworms, beans, nuts. Varies by species.
– Foraging – Hide foods around enclosure to stimulate natural foraging behaviors.
– Fresh water – Clean drinking water always available. Avoid drippers. Change daily.
Species-Specific Diets
– Budgies and parakeets – Fortified seed mix. Veggies like kale, carrots, peppers. Some fruit and pellets. Cuttlebone.
– Cockatiels – Fortified seeds and pellets. Chopped dark leafy greens, berries, veggies. Cooked eggs few times a week.
– Lovebirds – Mainly pellets supplemented with fortified seeds, veggies, fruits, proteins.
– Parrotlets – Small sized pellets, occasional seeds. Chopped fruits and veggies. Proteins.
– Canaries and finches – Fortified finch seed mix. Greens, egg foods, sprouted seeds. Veggies, fruits only occasionally.
– Raptors – Whole prey items like mice, chicks, fish. May need vitamin/mineral supplements.
Research your specific bird species’ dietary needs for optimum health. Provide clean water, seeds/pellets and produce daily. Protein foods 2-3 times weekly in most cases. Periodic supplements. An avian vet can advise on ideal diets.
Enrichment & Training Pet Birds
In addition to proper housing and diet, pet birds need:
– Social Interaction – Birds are flocking animals. Spend time interacting, training and bonding daily.
– Foraging Opportunities – Hide foods, use puzzle toys to stimulate natural behaviors. Rotate frequently to prevent boredom.
– Physical Exercise – Ensure adequate unclipped flight time and space. Perches at varying heights and sizes. Some species may enjoy harness training for outdoor adventures. Supervise closely.
– Mental Stimulation – Provide foot toys, shredding toys, bells etc. Rotate frequently. Train using positive reinforcement.
– Grooming – Mist baths, shallow pans of water for feather care several times weekly. Showers for larger birds. Avoid toxic chemicals.
– Day/Night Cycle – Ensure 14 hours sleep in darker environment overnight. Cover cages partially but allow airflow.
– Cage Enrichment – Provide branches, ropes, ladders, swings and platforms. Move periodically for variety.
– Flock Socialization – For highly social species, house in compatible pairs or groups. Monitor for aggression. Separate if needed.
With adequate enrichment and supervised freedom, pet birds can lead healthy, engaged lives. An active bird is a happy bird.
Common Pet Bird Health Issues
See an avian vet annually, plus immediately at first signs of illness. Be vigilant for:
– Respiratory infections – Wheezing, discharge, open-beak breathing. Treatment needed quickly.
– Overgrown beak and nails – Signs of malnutrition or lack of chewing/climbing opportunities. Trim only by a vet if overgrown.
– Feather plucking – Can be behavioral or medical issue like infection, mites, allergies. Identify root cause.
– Diarrhea – Diet change or parasitical/bacterial infection. Resolve quickly before dehydration. Probiotics may help.
– Constipation – Often diet related. Address diet deficiencies and ensure bird is fully hydrated. May need enemas.
– Vitamin deficiencies – Poor diet, lack of direct sunlight. Ensure balanced diet, supplement if needed.
– Obesity – Trim and limit fatty foods. Ensure bird gets exercise out of cage.
– Reproductive issues – Egg binding, lack of breeding, aggression. Photoperiod manipulation and/or vet intervention may be needed.
Know the common ailments your bird species may face and act quickly at any signs of sickness. An avian vet can provide guidance on prevention and treat any issues promptly.
Conclusion
The UK has a well-established avicultural scene with a diversity of bird species able to be kept, from common chickens and ducks to exotic parrots and raptors. Follow laws and only source birds ethically and domestically. Do ample research to pick species suited to your commitment level, interests, and lifestyle. Be prepared to provide appropriate enclosures, enrichment, nutrition and healthcare. When cared for properly, pet birds can make engaging, long term companions.