Parrots, cockatiels, budgies, canaries and finches can all travel safely, but birds have needs that dog and cat owners might not expect. They're sensitive to temperature swings, drafts, fumes and sudden fright. Cross-border moves add paperwork that can take weeks to arrange.
Choosing a travel carrier
- Smaller than the home cage. A travel carrier should be big enough for the bird to perch and turn around, but not so big that it gets thrown around during braking.
- A low perch. Set the perch close to the floor so the bird is stable.
- Secure latches. Many parrots are expert escape artists. Use clips or zip ties on doors.
- Partial cover. A breathable cover over part of the carrier reduces visual stress while leaving airflow.
- No loose toys or swings, which can injure a bird during sudden stops.
Food and water
Water dishes spill in a moving vehicle. Offer water-rich foods like apple, orange slices, grapes or leafy greens during the trip, and offer water in a dish at stops. Scatter the bird's usual seeds or pellets on the carrier floor.
Temperature and air quality
Most pet birds are comfortable in normal room temperatures and don't cope well with extremes or sudden changes. Keep the carrier out of direct sun and away from vents blowing straight onto it. Birds have very sensitive respiratory systems, so no smoking, air fresheners or aerosol sprays in the vehicle.
Keeping birds calm
Birds are prey animals. A covered carrier, a quiet vehicle and calm voices help. Some birds thrash in the dark when startled, so a dim light or partial cover is better than total darkness for many species. Talk to your avian vet about your bird's temperament.
Crossing into the United States
According to USDA APHIS, pet birds entering the U.S. from Canada generally need:
- A VS import permit (apply using VS Form 17-129, at least 30 days before travel)
- A health certificate from a veterinarian
- A veterinary inspection at the port of entry
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service documents if the species is covered by CITES or the Wild Bird Conservation Act (many parrots are)
The bird must also have been in your possession for at least 90 days before travel and kept away from other birds and poultry. Birds from areas under highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) restrictions face much stricter rules, including federal quarantine at specific airports. Fees apply.
Coming into Canada
Canada has its own conditions for pet birds, and they can change with avian influenza outbreaks. Check the CFIA's Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) and your avian vet well before your trip.
Plan early
Bird moves are rarely last-minute. Start the permit process at least six weeks ahead. When you request a quote, tell us the species, the number of birds and your timeline, and we'll help you plan the paperwork around the route.
Planning a move with your pet?
4Paws Movers offers dedicated, climate-controlled ground transport across Ontario and cross-border into the U.S., plus airport cargo drop-off. Every fee is published.