Captive and pet birds
Importing captive and pet birds
From the United Kingdon, Isle of Man and other Channel Islands
You can import captive and pet birds from the UK, Isle of Man and other Channel Islands provided that you comply with the conditions laid out in a general licence.
Download General licence to import captive and pet birds (size 21kb)
From the Continent
If you wish to import birds from Europe you will need to apply for a specific licence and obtain a health certificate. The health certificate is issued by the Environment Department upon receipt of the completed licence application form. You will need to arrange for a vet to complete the certificate in the country the bird is travelling from.
Download Importation of captive and pet birds application form (size 42kb)
Exporting captive and pet birds
To the United Kingdon, Isle of Man and other Channel Islands
There are currently no retrictions on exporting captive or pet birds from Jersey. However it is the owner's / exporter's responsibility to adhere to any requirements laid down by the importing country, and as such you should contact the authorities of the importing country.
To other countries
If you wish to export captive and pet birds to other countries, a health certificate will be required. You will need to contact the Environment Department at least 10 days prior to the date of export.
Importing breeding and racing pigeons
From the United Kingdon, Isle of man and other Channel Islands
Breeding pigeons and racing pigeons can be imported from the UK, Isle of Man and other Channel Islands provided that you comply with the conditions laid out in a general licence. Prior to their arrival in Jersey the Environment Department need to be notified - the notification periods are:
- breeding pigeons - 48 hours
- racing pigeons - 7 days
Download General Licence to import breeding pigeons and racing pigeons (size 25kb)
Download notification to import breeding pigeons (size 21kb)
Download notification to import racing pigeons (size 20kb)
From Europe
If you wish to import birds from Europe, a specific licence and health certificate will be required. You will need to contact the Environment Department at least 10 days prior to the date of importation.
Exporting racing pigeons
To race back to Jersey
If you want to export pigeons to race back to Jersey you will need a specific licence. You will need to contact the Environment Department at least 10 days prior to the date of export.
Download application to race pigeons outside Jersey (size 22.7kb)
Further information
Outbreak of disease
If an outbreak of disease was to occur near to Jersey, the States Veterinary Officer may review the situation and re-introduce specific licences for all birds from the restriction zone.
Welfare of the birds
It is very important that when transporting birds the welfare of the birds is considered. If you are transporting birds by sea or air, the ferry operator or airline need to be informed.