Each year wild African Grey Parrots are trapped in Cameroon and Congo. They often endure terrible conditions thereafter, and many don't survive the journey from forest to market.

Next Monday (July 23rd) the CITES Standing Committee will decide the fate of thousands of African Grey Parrots. Now is our chance to urge CITES to protect this Globally Threatened Species. If we can get CITES to adopt a trade suspension from these two countries, we'll not only spare thousands of birds, we will help turn the tide on the trade in wild parrots for good.

But, we only have a few days in which to do it - please sign your name, get all your friends to do the same, and help us save thousands of wild parrots today!

Sign the petition now »

Some good news in the parrot world: Dr. Sam Williams and the team at Echo Bonaire provide an upbeat report on their rehabilitation and release of over one hundred native parrots and parakeets confiscated on Bonaire from the wild bird trade in mid-2011.

Read the report »

Genus: Psittaculirostris
Species: desmarestii
World Population: About 150,000
Range: Found in various parts of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.
Ecology/Habitat: Found up to 1650m (5412ft) in lowland and hill forest, riverine forest, forest edge and sometimes savanna. Wild diet consists of figs and their seeds, nectar and some insects. Gathers in small groups to feed high up in the canopy. Will nest communally in groups of up to three pairs. Is very active.
Threat Summary: Western subspecies is probably in decline because of deforestation and the wild bird trade.
IUCN/CITES Rating: Least concern, Appendix II

Learn more about the Desmarest's Fig Parrot »

Oh, for a chewable, a toy to rend and pulverize... this is the fondest wish of companion parrots everywhere. And their wish is our command: in this, the first installment of our new do-it-yourself enrichment corner, The Toy Box, the editor reports on some simple-to-make chewables: pine cones and paper balls.

Read article »

Welcoming a new family member: World Parrot Trust expert Phoebe Green Linden addresses the often-thorny issue of introducing a new parrot to the household.

Read the article »

Behaviourtects
Building Rewarding Relationships with Positive Reinforcement
A one-day workshop designed to explore the complex yet remarkably simple world of behaviour, learning and training. The workshop will be presented by professional learners and seasoned trainers Jim McKendry and Nicholas Bishop and endorsed by internationally recognised supporters Susan Friedman (Behaviorworks) and Steve Martin (Natural Encounters Inc). Jim and Nic also welcome long-term behaviour education stalwart Sheryll Steele-Boyce (Australian Birdkeeper Magazine) and the World Parrot Trust as event partners. A portion of the funds raised will be donated to WPT's efforts in assisting the welfare and conservation of this beautiful but imperiled group of birds.

The workshop is designed for people of all backgrounds and experience levels that want to improve their understanding and application of learning theory. In a relaxed, dynamic and fun setting, Jim and Nic will guide you through the step-by-step process of grasping the key concepts of how to build successful relationships with everything from chooks to Chihuahuas, from parrots to people.

Due to venue limitations and our desire to maximise the quality of learning experience, the Behaviourtects workshop will be limited to 30 participants.

Venue: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Gold Coast, QLD
Date: Sept. 30, 2012
Time:8:30am to 4:00pm
Contact: Jim McKendry
Email: jim@pbec.com.au
Phone: +07 5442 5342
View Brochure(PDF): http://www.pbec.com.au/Behaviourtects_2012.pdf

Parrot Lover's Cruise - Western Caribbean
Welcome to the 4th Annual Parrot Lover's Cruise, one of the most spectacular cruises for parrot enthusiasts. Leave your worries behind and relax as you join us to discover some of the bluest waters and best sightseeing in the world. Educate yourself with onboard parrot seminars and visit exotic ports of call where you may get a chance to see wild parrots!

Book early, seating is limited!

Date: Oct. 28 - Nov. 4, 2012
Contact: Carol Cipriano
Email: carolstraveltime@gmail.com
Phone: +1.570.470.0034
Web: http://www.parrotloverscruise.com

For more event listings, visit the WPT website at:
http://www.parrots.org/index.php/parrotnews/Events/