 | December 5, 2013
A chance to learn more about the plight of birds
Dear Friends,
Born Free USA works hard to help wildlife in need, and birds are no exception. That's why we're excited to celebrate the 13th Annual National Bird Day on Sunday, January 5, 2014! National Bird Day, created by Born Free USA and the Avian Welfare Coalition, shines a spotlight on issues critical to the protection and survival of birds – captive and wild. The annual campaign educates people about the international trade in wild birds, raises awareness about standards of care for pet birds, and engenders a deeper respect and understanding about global avian conservation issues.
Each year, thousands of birds are sold through the pet trade to individuals who mistakenly believe that birds are appropriate as pets. Even when bred in captivity, exotic birds are not domesticated animals, and all of their inherent behavioral and physical needs remain. When locked in cages, birds are cruelly deprived of the chance to engage in natural behaviors such as flying and socializing with others of their species. Pet birds may express their frustration through aggression, eventually driving many bird owners to abandon their "pets." The unregulated bird trade has resulted in countless unwanted, abused, or abandoned birds in shelters and rescue facilities.
You can help!
Join animal advocates around the world in celebrating National Bird Day: a day of action for all birds.
Born Free USA has assembled a full suite of information and activities to celebrate birds at www.nationalbirdday.com. And, here's a fun list of seven ways to help right away:
1. Watch Parrot Confidential, the acclaimed 2013 documentary that explores the challenges of owning parrots, how breeders and owners become bird rescuers, and conservation efforts in the wild.
2. Visit www.nationalbirdday.com throughout the month of January for special video diaries and interviews from experts at Born Free USA and the Avian Welfare Coalition, as well as from bird watchers, rescuers, researchers, and activists.
3. Follow Born Free USA's National Bird Day Blog at www.nationalbirdday.org for a special six-week series, starting December 16.
4. Take Born Free USA's bird quiz to test your knowledge of bird calls with an interactive challenge.
5. Spread the message of compassion for birds by sending a National Bird Day e-card to friends and family, posting Born Free USA's collectible 2014 posters in your community, or by placing an ad in your local newspaper.
6. For bird owners, learn tips on what you can do to make your rescued bird happy.
7. For wild bird lovers, learn tips to reduce bird collisions.
We're excited for you to join us in celebrating our feathered friends – and fighting for their humane treatment – on January 5! Think Outside the Cage!
For the animals,
P.S. There is one bird you can buy! Check out Freedom the cockatiel.
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