In Western Australia, certain birds are protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 and Wildlife Conservation Regulations 1970. This means that it is illegal to keep these birds as pets or take them from the wild without the appropriate licenses and permits from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA).
Overview
There are three main categories of protected birds in WA that require licenses:
- Specially protected fauna – Birds that are rare, threatened species. A license is required to take, keep or breed these birds.
- Birds protected from sale – Common native birds that can be kept as pets but cannot be sold. A “keeping” license is required.
- Birds that require an export permit – Birds that can be exported out of WA with the appropriate permit.
Below is a more detailed look at each category of protected birds, including a list of the species that require licenses and permits in WA.
Specially Protected Fauna
Birds classified as “specially protected fauna” under the Wildlife Conservation Act are either rare or threatened species. There are strict regulations around keeping these birds, and licenses are required for the following activities:
- Taking from the wild – A license is required to capture or collect these birds from the natural environment.
- Keeping – A license is required to keep specially protected birds in captivity, whether they are captive-bred or taken from the wild.
- Breeding – A license is needed to intentionally breed these bird species in captivity.
Below are some examples of birds classified as specially protected fauna in WA:
Species | Common Name |
---|---|
Leipoa ocellata | Malleefowl |
Polytelis anthopeplus monarchoides | Regent parrot (south-west) |
Rostratula australis | Australian painted snipe |
Dasyornis longirostris | Western bristlebird |
How to apply for a license
To apply for a license to take, keep or breed specially protected fauna, you need to submit a application to the DBCA. The application requires:
- Details about the birds to be kept or bred
- Your experience and facilities for housing the birds
- A purpose and justification for keeping or breeding the birds
Licenses have strict conditions attached, including veterinary care requirements, housing specifications, mandatory record-keeping and inspection regimes. Approval is not guaranteed.
Birds Protected From Sale
Many common native birds in WA are protected from being sold. This includes iconic species such as galahs, corellas and cockatoos. However, these birds can be legally kept as pets with the appropriate “keeping” license from DBCA.
Below are some examples of birds protected from sale that require a keeping license in WA:
Species | Common Name |
---|---|
Cacatua pastinator pastinator | Western long-billed corella |
Calyptorhynchus baudinii | Baudin’s cockatoo |
Eolophus roseicapillus | Galah |
Nymphicus hollandicus | Cockatiel |
How to apply for a keeping license
To legally keep protected birds as pets, you must:
- Apply for a “keeping license” from DBCA
- Pay the prescribed application fee
- Provide details of the species and number of birds
- Provide details of your aviaries or facilities
- Submit to any inspections if required
The license specifies conditions for keeping the birds, such as veterinary care, housing requirements and record-keeping. Licenses are valid for 1-5 years before renewal is required.
Birds Requiring Export Permits
Some native bird species can be exported out of Western Australia with the appropriate permit. This includes popular pet and aviary bird species that are not threatened or specially protected. An export permit from DBCA is required to transport these birds interstate or overseas.
Below are some examples of birds that require an export permit to be moved out of WA:
Species | Common Name |
---|---|
Alisterus scapularis | Australian king parrot |
Glossopsitta concinna | Musk lorikeet |
Melopsittacus undulatus | Budgerigar |
Psephotus haematonotus | Red-rumped parrot |
How to apply for an export permit
To export birds out of WA, you need to:
- Complete an application form from DBCA
- Pay the prescribed fee
- Provide details of the species, numbers and destinations of birds
- Provide proof of legal ownership of the birds
Export permits outline conditions for transporting the birds, and are valid for a set time period.
Exempt Birds
Some introduced bird species are exempt from licensing requirements in WA. This includes common cage birds and poultry that are not native to Australia. Below are some examples:
- Budgies
- Canaries
- Finches
- Doves
- Fowls
- Ducks
However, interstate movement of even exempt species may still require permits. Always check regulations before transporting birds across state borders.
Offences and Penalties
There are serious penalties under the Wildlife Conservation Act for breaches relating to protected birds, including:
- Taking, selling, keeping or breeding protected birds without a license – fines up to $10,000 and 2 years imprisonment.
- Cruelty or neglect – fines up to $50,000 and 5 years imprisonment.
- Exporting birds without a permit – fines up to $10,000.
Penalties vary based on the type of offence and species involved. Fines can be imposed on both individuals and corporations.
Conclusion
In summary, there are strict regulations around protected bird species in Western Australia. Licenses and permits are required for taking, keeping, breeding, selling or exporting many native birds. Penalties apply for breaches of the Wildlife Conservation Act.
When keeping birds as pets or aviary birds, always check if a license is needed. Apply to the DBCA for any required licenses or export permits well in advance of acquiring new birds or transporting them interstate. Follow all conditions on permits and licenses to avoid penalties.
With appropriate planning and responsible pet ownership, bird enthusiasts can enjoy protected species while still conserving WA’s precious wildlife.