Pet Bird Travel in the Winter Months

Traveling with birds in the winter can take a little more preparation than traveling with a pet like a dog. You may have to call various airlines, restaurants and hotels to see if you can bring your bird with you, since this information may not be readily available. The most important thing to remember when traveling with a bird in the winter is to try to mimic the bird's climate at home as best as possible by keeping its surroundings warm at all times.

  1. Leaving the Country

    • Get a valid permit from the Division of Management Authority of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service if you plan to leave the United States with a bird. Applications for permits must be received at least two to three months prior to travel. You must then have your permit validated by a Fish and Wildlife Service Wildlife Inspector before you leave the United States. Make sure you bring a copy of your validated permit with you on your trip to show upon return to the U.S. Also find out whether the countries you plan to visit have additional import and export requirements.

    Flying With Your Bird

    • Call your airline to see whether they permit birds, what kind of birds and whether birds are allowed in the cabin or must be stowed. Obtain a necessary health certificate no more than 10 days prior to your flight. Make sure your pet bird has plenty of room to move around in a travel cage. Covering the cage will help keep your bird calm and warm, especially in the winter months.

    Driving With Your Bird

    • Purchase a travel cage, which will be smaller than the bird's regular cage but roomy enough for him to stretch and perch. Secure your bird's cage with a seat belt. Do not put the cage in the front seat. Some birds may travel better with their cage covered; in the winter months this will help protect your bird from the elements when moving it into or out of the car. Also, wrap the cage in a blanket to provide additional warmth, making sure to leave air holes. Bring enough food for your trip and make sure you have a nonspillable water bottle for your bird to drink on the drive. Never leave your bird in the car without the heat on.

    Comfortable Temperatures

    • Make sure to have a comfortable temperature for your bird. Pre-warm the car before your start your drive. Do not put the heat on too high in the car in the winter, but make sure it is still warm enough for your bird. If you are flying, ask the airline what the temperature will be where the bird is kept. If you believe it will be uncomfortably cold for your bird, reconsider whether taking your bird with you is absolutely necessary.

    Plan Ahead

    • Check weather reports for temperatures and storms. Know that both climate and altitude can both affect your bird. In winter, never leave your bird unattended in the cold; make sure you can bring it with you even when you eat your meals. Make a list of avian veterinarians located along your route, and make sure the hotels you are staying in are bird-friendly. Check on your bird frequently if its cage is covered.