Genus: Hapalopsittaca
Species: pyrrhops

Where found: Found in wet upper montane forest in the temperate zone, from 2400-3500m (7872-11,480ft). Also tolerates degraded forest.

Ecology: Feeds on fruits, berries, shoots, flowers, seeds, pods and other plant material. Is gregarious; seen in flocks of up to 20 birds. Lays 3 eggs.

Population: 2,500 - 10,000
IUCN Status: Vulnerable, Appendix II

Threats: Is threatened by habitat destruction and fragmentation due to slash and burn agriculture.

This past month a shipment of 35 Grey Parrots, flying from Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo to the United Arab Emirates, was confiscated at Nairobi Airport and placed in quarantine by the Kenyan Wildlife Service (KWS). Dr. Joash Kibagendi Kerosi, who is the Kenyan Government's veterinarian on staff at the airport, noted that the birds were lacking much of the required paperwork and initiated the confiscation and follow up investigation.

Dr. Kerosi recently received special training this past June at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in Geneva, Switzerland. Central to this course was animal handling and CITES regulations. Dr. Kerosi's training was made possible through support from the World Parrot Trust, with additional assistance from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) and the Humane Society of the US (HSUS). WPT is also in contact with KWS, and has notified the Kenyan SPCA, offering aid for the parrots' feeding and vet care. It is uncertain how the parrots will fare after this ordeal, but it is hoped that most will survive the quarantine period.

The Grey Parrot is now extinct in Kenya, and few birds remain in neighbouring Uganda. These confiscated birds and future consignments like them may eventually be rehabilitated and released to help re-establish Grey Parrots in areas where they are currently extinct. A recent review of the status of the Grey Parrot found the species to be declining nearly everywhere it occurs due to heavy trapping for the pet trade.

Learn how you can help the Grey Parrot »  

A few months ago, we told you that the Trust was busy building a new series of web-based seminars, featuring top experts in the parrot world. We had at that time anticipated we would be ready to launch in Spring of 2009. Well, that deadline has come and gone, but not without good reason! During the process, we determined there was more we could do to offer resources specific to parrot care and conservation. As a result, our efforts have expanded into a more feature-rich education program.

In preparation for the launch (tentatively re-scheduled to fall 2009), we are seeking the feedback from you, our fellow parrot enthusiasts. By participating in this brief survey, you will help us to shape and refine the structure, and ensure we are on the right track. Plus, you will be entered into a draw to win a copy of the DVD PollyVision II: Parrots of the Americas!

Participate in the survey »

Sometimes you worry about your bird coming down with something... but have you wondered about the things that you might catch along with your bird? Flock Talk's editor decided to do some sleuthing on the subject.

Read the article »

Want to do something for the greater good? Especially on your birthday? This year, instead of asking for gifts from your family and friends, ask them to donate to the World Parrot Trust.

It's easy, and you'll be giving the ultimate gift for millions of parrots around the world: the gift of survival.

Make a birthday wish for the Trust »

Help Stanley J Dodgen achieve his birthday wish to support the WPT! »