Macaws, classified as a Class II protected animal in China, are prohibited from being privately owned. To legally keep one, you would need to acquire a Wildlife Domestication and Breeding Permit. Keeping a macaw without this permit is a violation of the law. Currently, the parrot species that are permitted to be kept as pets in China are the Budgerigar (also known as the parakeet or shell parakeet), the Cockatiel, and the Lovebird.
Macaws are listed in the International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species (Version 3.1) from 2012, making them a Class II protected animal in China. It's illegal to privately own them without a valid Wildlife Domestication and Breeding Permit. You often see macaws in zoos because these facilities have the resources and qualified staff to properly care for them, ensuring they live comfortably. Private owners typically cannot provide the same level of care, hence the prohibition on private ownership, and violations will lead to legal consequences.
What Parrot Species Are Legal to Own in China?
1. Budgerigars (Parakeets)
Budgerigars are a commonly seen parrot species known for their active nature and their high level of interaction and breeding capacity. They are a popular choice for pet owners.
2. Cockatiels
Cockatiels are also legal to own privately. They are intelligent birds that can mimic human speech and be trained to perform certain tasks. Their appearance is another attractive quality. If you're unsure which type of parrot to keep, a cockatiel is a great option.
3. Lovebirds
Not all Lovebird varieties are legal to keep. Only the Masked Lovebird is allowed to be kept as a pet. The Peach-faced lovebird species are Class II protected animals, and any private sale or trade will be in violation of the law.