January 5th is National Bird Free Day. A day designated to draw attention to captive birds and to the exploitation of other countries' native birds by the U.S. pet industry. Born Free USA, in conjunction with the Animal Protection Institute and the Avian Welfare Coalition (AWC), are calling on activists around the U.S. to take action on behalf of captive birds.
The USA has enacted laws to protect native birds — such as blue jays, cardinals, and crows — from commercial exploitation, yet fails to recognize the inconsistency in allowing the pet industry to exploit the birds of other countries, explains Born Free USA.
Even when bred in captivity, exotic birds are not considered domesticated animals, and all their inherent behavioral and physical needs remain intact. When it comes to birds, deprivation of their natural behaviors (to fly and flock, for example) is an inescapable component of their captivity.
Each year tens of thousands of birds are sold into the pet trade to individuals who are under the mistaken impression that a bird will make a perfect pet. Eventually, whether due to frustration, disinterest, or concern, many people attempt to rid themselves of the responsibility of caring for their birds. Unfortunately, few of these birds will find a loving home, and most will spend their days isolated and confined to their cages. Others will bounce from home to home as their caretakers tire of them, and some may be abandoned at local shelters and birds rescue centers, set ‘free’ to fend for themselves or euthanized.
Visit: http://www.nationalbirdday.com/
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