Are you dreaming of bringing home a beautiful exotic bird? Whether you’re a seasoned bird lover or a first-time parrot parent, buying a live bird in Europe—especially in countries like Germany—requires more than just passion. There are essential legal and environmental responsibilities you must be aware of before making your purchase.
At Parrot FarmHouse, we’re committed to not only helping you find the perfect feathered friend—but also ensuring every bird we sell comes with all the required documents, certificates, and legal compliance you need. 💼🦜
Let’s dive into the essential guide every bird buyer should read before making their purchase!
International Laws Protecting Wildlife (CITES)
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is a global agreement signed by 184 countries, including the entire European Union. Since 2015, the EU has officially become a party to CITES, reinforcing its commitment to stopping illegal wildlife trade.
What does this mean for you?
If you’re buying a bird species protected by CITES, you must have the proper import/export documentation. CITES categorizes species under three levels of protection:
Appendix I: Species at risk of extinction – trade is allowed only in rare, exceptional cases.
Appendix II: Not immediately endangered, but still requires regulation.
Appendix III: Protected in at least one country; needs trade monitoring and support.
Without the right permits, your bird could be seized at customs—and you could face legal consequences.
🛑 Always ask the seller for the correct CITES documents before you buy.
Understanding EU Wildlife Action Plans
Europe is not just a buyer of exotic birds—it’s also a hotspot for wildlife trafficking. In response, the European Commission revised its Action Plan against Wildlife Trafficking in 2022, outlining four powerful priorities:
Prevention – Reduce illegal demand and support ethical, sustainable sourcing.
Stronger Laws – Align with global standards and reinforce national laws.
Tighter Enforcement – Crack down on illegal wildlife trade with better monitoring and cooperation.
Global Cooperation – Unite source, transit, and consumer countries to stop illegal trade.
As a buyer, you play a key role. Choose a seller who complies with EU regulations, offers full transparency, and provides authentic documentation.
What You Must Check Before Buying a Bird
Here’s your pre-purchase checklist for buying a bird in Europe:
✅ Is the species listed in the EU wildlife trade annexes?
✅ Does the seller offer full CITES compliance and EU certification?
✅ Is the seller registered and located within the EU?
✅ Do you know the origin of the bird (wild-caught or captive-bred)?
✅ Are there any additional veterinary, agricultural, or transport documents required?
💡 Bonus Tip: Be cautious when buying birds online, especially on auction sites or social media. Illegally sourced birds are often sold without proper papers.
Travelling with Your Bird
Planning to travel with your feathered companion?
You’ll need personal ownership certificates for non-commercial travel with CITES-listed species.
No special documents are needed within the Schengen Area, but it’s still smart to carry proof of legal ownership.
Ensure the bird’s transport meets the EU’s animal welfare standards, especially under Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005.
Souvenirs & Animal Products – What’s Allowed?
If you’re bringing home souvenirs made of birds or bird-related materials, such as feathers or carvings, remember:
📌 Permits are required for most items made from species listed in CITES or EU annexes.
🚫 Without proper documentation, items can be confiscated at customs and you may be fined.
Buy LEGALLY Certified Birds at Parrot FarmHouse
At Parrot FarmHouse, we go above and beyond to ensure that every bird you purchase is:
✅ Fully certified under CITES and EU law
✅ Health-checked and vet-approved
✅ Accompanied by all legal documentation
✅ Raised with care, love, and attention
Whether you’re in Germany, France, Spain, or anywhere in Europe, you can rest assured that you’re buying from a reputable, legal, and ethical source.
👉 Don’t take the risk of illegal purchases. Choose peace of mind. Choose Parrot FarmHouse.
Adopt Your Parrot Today!
Ready to welcome a vibrant new friend into your life? Explore our selection of live parrots for sale—from African Greys to Macaws and everything in between. All birds come with:
Full legal certification
Health documents
Easy EU-wide delivery
🦜💼 Secure your parrot now and join the family of happy, responsible bird owners across Europe.
Visit ParrotFarmHouse.com to browse available species or contact our team directly for guidance!
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