African Grey Parrot Consumption in China

The findings are especially timely given recent trialling of a potential 'Whitelist' system by China’s National Forestry and Grassland Administration (NFGA). This policy would be applicable to African grey parrots and 13 other bird species, and aim to regulate legal trade through established captive-breeding techniques, but has not been formally adopted or implemented and is under consideration only.

The research indicates strong consumer interest in parrot ownership, with legality emerging as a key factor in purchasing decisions. However, widespread confusion persists around what constitutes legal trade and how it affects wild populations.

RESEARCH TAKEAWAYS

• Whitelist Influence: Nearly half of respondents said that inclusion of a species on a whitelist would increase their desire to own it. Among those interested in African parrots, this figure rises to almost seven in ten respondents.
• Purchase Intentions: 91% of current parrot owners would consider buying another if trade were legal.
• Motivations and Barriers: Consumers are drawn to parrots for their intelligence, social nature, and ability to enhance home ambience. Key deterrents include legality concerns, housekeeping demands, health risks, and safety issues. Cost is the least influential factor.
• Conservation Perceptions: 45% believe buying pet parrots has no impact on wild populations, with some thinking it may even benefit wild populations. Over half (52%) think captive breeding can help conserve endangered species.
• Legal Understanding: Only 29% believe some species are legal with a permit, and 28% if born in captivity. 6% believed all species of parrot should be able to trade legally.

These research findings provide valuable insights for social and behaviour change campaigns, empowering and persuading consumers to recognise and avoid illegal trade practices. Informed and responsible pet ownership, especially for African grey parrots and other endangered parrot species, is vital for reducing threats to endangered species and to securing a future for nature."

Gayle Burgess, TRAFFIC’s Behaviour Change Programme Leader

TRAFFIC’s social behaviour change campaign is now live on Douyin, targeting potential buyers of AGPs and other endangered African parrots.