The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is calling on bird owners to ensure they are aware of keeping requirements for some regulated species, to ensure their pets do not become pests.
Conures, Indian ringneck parakeets, Alexandrine parrots and macaws are examples of birds which require a permit to enter Western Australia and to be kept here.
Kununurra-based DPIRD senior biosecurity officer John-Paul Slaven said permit conditions required C1 category declared birds to be kept in a secure, double-door aviary.
“We have recently identified birds in the Kimberley that were not being kept in line with the regulations,” Mr Slaven said.
“The owners were unaware of import and keeping requirements, so we are reminding the bird keeping community to be aware of the regulations in WA to protect our biosecurity.
“If these birds were to be released or escape into the wild, they could potentially impact native birds or our agricultural production.”
Mr Slaven said it was an offence to keep prohibited or restricted birds without a permit and this could result in seizure or a fine.
Members of the public can search the WA Organism List on the DPIRD website www.agric.wa.gov.au, by typing the common or scientific name of the bird.
Keeping permits and information can be obtained from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) website.
“For interstate travellers, some bird species are prohibited entry into WA and others may require a permit to enter,” Mr Slaven said.
“Import permits can be obtained from the DPIRD website by searching for ‘invasive species permit’, before importing any birds or bringing your treasured pet with you.”
Any unusual birds seen in the wild should be reported using DPIRD’s MyPestGuide reporting app or contact the department’s Pest and Disease Information Service on 1800 084 881.
Media contacts:
DPIRD media liaison Jodie Thomson/Megan Broad +61 (0)8 9368 3937/3137