How to Ship a Bird

If you are moving cross-country or are selling a bird to someone who doesn't live within driving distance, you may need to ship the bird. It is illegal to ship most species of pet birds via postal service. Instead, the bird must be shipped via airline cargo service. This method of shipping is quite expensive, but is fast and very safe.

Things You'll Need

  • Airline-approved carrier
  • Perch
  • Food dishes
  • Bird's usual diet
  • Fresh fruit
  • Cable ties
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Instructions

    • 1

      Call the airline you will be using to ship your bird to make reservations. Generally speaking, you will only need to book the flight a few days in advance. Be sure to specify that you will be shipping a live bird, or birds.

    • 2

      Call the cargo office at your local airport to determine when you will need to drop off the bird, and where the drop off point is located. Some cargo offices are located within the airport, but usually they are in a separate building nearby.

    • 3

      Prepare the bird for shipping. If you are shipping a pet bird, it may be helpful to let him explore the carrier he will be flying in beforehand. You may also want to take him on a drive around town while riding in the carrier. If your bird has unclipped wings, you should clip them before shipping to prevent loss in case he escapes from the carrier.

    • 4

      Set up the carrier for the trip. The carrier will need a securely attached perch and food dishes, as well as a paper lining on the bottom. Provide at least three days worth of food, along with juicy fresh fruit to prevent dehydration. Water cannot be shipped with your bird since it will spill.

    • 5

      Label the container for shipping. You must include care instructions for your bird in case of flight delay, and clearly mark the container with "LIVE BIRD". You should also add tags or other labels with your name and contact information, in case a problem arises. If the bird you are shipping bites, you should note this on the carrier to avoid injury to airport personnel who will be transporting her.

    • 6

      Place the bird inside the container and secure it using cable ties. This is a good time to offer your bird a treat and some reassuring words.

    • 7

      Bring the container with the bird inside to the airport cargo office for shipping. In general, you will need to arrive two hours before the flight departs, but you should check with the cargo office for specific instructions.