CITES Explained for UK Parrot Buyers

Before you reserve: a practical document check

Use this as a conversation guide, not as legal advice. Requirements depend on the species, the route and the current UK rules.

1. Record the species, scientific name and the individual identification shown for the bird.
2. Ask for documents relating to that bird, rather than a generic template or a verbal assurance.
3. Check that the ring or microchip reference matches the invoice and provenance records.
4. Confirm which UK authority, permit or border process applies to your destination before travel is arranged.
5. Keep copies of the paperwork and written delivery terms, and do not pay before you understand what is being supplied.

For route-specific questions, review our delivery information and use the contact page to confirm the destination before making arrangements.

What is CITES?

Established in 1963 and currently signed by 183 countries, CITES regulates international trade in wildlife and wildlife products to prevent it driving species toward extinction. The treaty classifies species into three appendices based on conservation status:

• Appendix I: Species threatened with extinction. Commercial trade is highly restricted and requires both export and import permits. Parrots in this category include the African Grey (Psittacus erithacus), Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus), and Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao).
• Appendix II: Species not currently threatened but potentially harmed by uncontrolled trade. Commercial trade is allowed but requires export documentation. Most commercial parrot species fall here — Blue-and-Yellow Macaw, Amazon Parrots, Eclectus, Conures, Cockatoos.
• Appendix III: Species listed at the request of individual countries for specific regulation. Rare in parrot trade.

Post-Brexit CITES requirements for the UK

Movement between the EU and the United Kingdom can involve additional documentation and border steps. The exact requirements depend on the species, its listing, the origin and destination, and whether the movement is commercial. Rules and forms can change, so confirm the current process with the relevant UK and exporting-country authorities before travel is arranged.

• Species and listing: check the current CITES category and whether a permit, certificate or notification applies to the individual movement.
• Origin and destination: confirm which authority issues or receives each document and whether a border inspection or approved route is required.
• Animal-health rules: check the current veterinary and welfare requirements separately from CITES; they are not interchangeable.
• Timing: do not book travel or assume an airport is suitable until the current route and paperwork have been confirmed in writing.

Questions to ask a seller

Ask which documents relate to the individual bird, who is responsible for each application, which authority should be contacted, and what happens if a permit or route is delayed. Keep copies of the written answers and compare them with the current official guidance. If you are considering a bird from this aviary, you can contact Paraíso de Aves with your destination and species so the route can be discussed before any commitment.

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