It seems that what most of the accounts on this topic are not taking into account is there are a lot more people in aviculture that are interested in mutations rather than “wild type” birds. The market for “wild type” birds would be very small indeed. And considering the cost and trouble in getting these two species from the wild – no way would anyone bother. And truly wild caught adult parrots are basically useless as they rarely settle enough not to kill themselves against the wire, let alone that the chances of breeding from them are almost non-existent. The poachers would have to find nests and take eggs/nestlings and hand raise them… Just my thoughts, Susie Wisniewski _________________________________________________________________ View photos of singles in your area! Looking for a hot date? http://clk.atdmt.com/NMN/go/150855801/direct/01/==============================www.birding-aus.org birding-aus.blogspot.com
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Susie, it is about time someone else pointed out a few facts to the “field bird observer” about aviculturists. Many years ago when Ron H was still alive, he had more Princess Parrots in his collection than had been seen in the wild in the previous 10 years. They were a mixture of “wild-type”, blues and splits (heterozygous – for those that don’t know the lingo). When at the ASA bird sale 2 years ago, the mutations were selling for at least twice the price of the “wild-type” of birds like Princess Parrots, Bourke’s (Rose mutation) Parrots and the many mutations of the Eastern and Crimson Rosellas.
I wonder, with all of the mutations floating around of many species, whether there are, in fact, many homozygous wild-type parrots left in captivity in Australia (of those that have popular mutations).
Having been involved heavily in aviculture for 25 years before moving interstate and selling my birds, and my parents involvement as well (mum, Ethel, was renown for hand-rearing parrots and cockatoos), I agree with you notes that wild birds brought into captivity didnt do particularly well for all the reasons that you have mentioned. Similarly many, would say most, aviary-bred birds don’t survive long in the “wild” if they manage to escape from their aviaries, either.
Yours in all things “green”
Regards
John Harris Manager, Environment and Sustainability Donvale Christian College 155 Tindals Rd Donvale 3111 03 9844 2471 Ext 217 0409 090 955 john.harris@donvale.vic.edu.au
President, Field Naturalists Club of Victoria (FNCV) Past President, Victorian Association for Environmental Education (VAEE)