Risk assessment of animal welfare in exotic birds kept as companion and hobby animals

VKM has assessed the welfare needs, welfare challenges, and mitigation measures for 27 exotic bird species kept as companion and hobby animals in Norway. VKM concludes that it is challenging to achieve good welfare for these exotic bird species in captivity. There is a high risk of poor welfare in these birds kept without conspecifics. Furthermore, inadequate housing lacking enrichment and without the possibility of free flying outdoors is detrimental to the welfare of all species. Feather clipping and hand-rearing are other high-risk factors, as is feeding a seed-based diet. VKM has also compiled an overview of mitigation measures.