Surrender a Parrot
When circumstances change, asking for help can be an act of compassion.
We understand that deciding to surrender a parrot can be difficult. You will not be judged for asking for help.
The Georgia Aviary approaches every surrender request with compassion and respect. We may be able to help by learning about your parrot, understanding your situation, and determining whether we can provide appropriate support.
Applications are submitted securely through ParrotTrax. You will be redirected to ParrotTrax to complete the application.
Before You Apply
- You must be the parrot’s legal owner or otherwise authorized to surrender the bird.
- Submitting an application does not guarantee that The Georgia Aviary can accept the bird.
- Intake decisions are based on available space and resources, the needs of the bird, and the health and safety of birds already in our care.
- Please be completely honest about medical conditions and behavior. Biting, screaming, feather-damaging behavior, or other challenges do not automatically prevent a bird from being considered for intake.
- An approved surrender is a permanent and irrevocable transfer of ownership to The Georgia Aviary.
What We’ll Ask About
The application asks about your parrot’s species, age, history, diet, housing, health, veterinary care, behavior, and reason for surrender. Please provide veterinary records and recent photos when available. The more complete the information, the better we can evaluate your bird’s needs.
How the Surrender Process Works
1. Submit a Request
Complete the online surrender application through ParrotTrax.
2. Our Team Reviews It
We evaluate your parrot’s individual needs along with our current capacity and resources.
3. We’ll Contact You
A team member may contact you for additional information or to discuss possible next steps.
4. Transfer Is Arranged If Approved
If we are able to accept your parrot, we will coordinate the surrender and provide instructions for transfer.
What Happens After Surrender
Once a parrot enters our care, our team evaluates the bird as an individual. Care may include veterinary evaluation and treatment, species-appropriate nutrition, appropriate housing, enrichment, social opportunities, behavioral support, and other accommodations based on the bird’s physical and psychological needs.
Our goal is to determine the most appropriate long-term outcome for each bird. Depending on the individual parrot’s needs and circumstances, that may include placement in a carefully screened foster or adoptive home, or lifelong sanctuary care.
Not Sure Surrender Is the Right Choice?
If you’re struggling with your parrot’s behavior, care needs, or a temporary change in circumstances, please let us know in your application. When possible, our team may be able to recommend resources that could help you make an informed decision.
NEED URGENT HELP?
The parrot surrender application is not monitored as an emergency service.
If your bird is experiencing a medical emergency, contact an avian veterinarian or emergency veterinary hospital immediately. If an animal is in immediate danger due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment, contact the appropriate animal-control or law-enforcement agency.
Ready to Submit a Request?
Please complete our ParrotTrax surrender application. Submission does not guarantee intake, and please do not bring a bird to The Georgia Aviary unless arrangements have been confirmed by our team.
You will be redirected to ParrotTrax to complete the secure surrender application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Surrender Fee?
There is no required surrender fee, and a parrot will never be turned away solely because an owner cannot contribute financially. However, we do request a donation whenever possible to help offset the cost of veterinary care, quality nutrition, appropriate housing, enrichment, and lifelong care. In some cases, we may request a more substantial donation due to significant medical needs, specialized housing, multiple birds, or other circumstances that create unusually high costs. Our priority is always the welfare of the bird, regardless of an owner’s ability to donate.
Can I Surrender a Parrot for Someone Else?
Generally, only the parrot’s legal owner or someone authorized to act on their behalf may surrender the bird. We may ask for documentation or confirmation of ownership before accepting a parrot. If the owner is deceased or incapacitated, or there are other special circumstances, please contact us so we can discuss the situation and determine the appropriate next steps.
What If I Don’t Know My Bird’s Complete History?
That’s okay. We understand that a parrot’s full history is not always known, especially for birds who have had multiple homes. Please share as much as you can about their health, diet, behavior, previous homes, and veterinary care. Even limited information can help us better understand and care for your bird.
Can I Surrender Multiple Birds?
Yes. We can consider multiple birds, including bonded pairs and groups. Acceptance depends on available space, the birds’ individual needs, and our ability to provide appropriate care. Please include information about each bird and let us know if any are bonded or should remain together.
Can I Visit or Receive Updates After Surrendering My Bird?
Visits and updates are considered on a case-by-case basis. We understand how difficult it can be to say goodbye to a beloved parrot and will be as compassionate as possible throughout the process. However, decisions about continued contact are always based on what is in the best interest of the bird, including their emotional well-being and ability to adjust to their new environment.