CITES regulations in the UK: a guide for captive bird owners and breeders

3 April 2026

In Great Britain, CITES regulations apply to anyone dealing with protected bird species, including pet owners, breeders, and sellers.

When do you need a CITES permit or certificate?

You will need the appropriate CITES documentation if you intend to:

Import, export, or re-export any CITES-listed species (whether alive, dead, or in parts/products)
Move a CITES specimen between Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales) and the EU or Northern Ireland
Sell, offer for sale, or use commercially any Appendix I species (known as Annex A in UK law), even if the bird remains within the UK

Permits can be applied for via the GOV.UK online CITES service.

Without the correct paperwork and identification (such as a closed leg ring or compliant microchip), it is illegal to import, export, or sell the bird.

What is CITES?

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is an international agreement between over 180 countries. Its aim is to regulate wildlife trade and prevent species from becoming endangered or extinct.

CITES provides a global framework, but each country enforces it through its own laws. In the UK, this is handled by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), an executive agency of DEFRA, which acts as the UK's CITES Management Authority.

CITES protection levels

Species are classified into three categories:

Appendix I (Annex A) - Highest level of protection; trade is strictly controlled
Appendix II (Annex B) - Trade is permitted but regulated to prevent overexploitation
Appendix III (Annex C) - Trade monitored at the request of specific countries

These rules apply not only to live animals but also to parts and products such as feathers, eggs, skins, and manufactured goods.

Requirements for keeping a captive-bred bird

Before purchasing a captive-bred bird (such as a parrot, bird of prey, or other protected species), you should confirm its legal status.

For Appendix I / Annex A species, the bird must:

Have proof of captive breeding (e.g. breeder documentation or an Article 10 certificate)
Be permanently identified with a closed leg ring or an ISO-compliant microchip
Be accompanied by valid CITES documentation confirming legal origin and trade

It is important to note that 'captive-bred' has a specific legal meaning under CITES. A specimen must have been born in captivity to parents that were themselves bred in captivity (i.e. second generation or beyond). Breeding a bird in a cage, aviary, or enclosure does not automatically meet this definition.

Additional records (such as hatch certificates, transfer history, or proof of lawful acquisition) may also be required.

You must keep all documentation for the lifetime of the bird. Failure to provide valid records may result in seizure.

If the bird is gifted

If you are given a CITES-listed bird (rather than purchasing it):

An Article 10 certificate or ID is not legally required at the time of transfer
However, obtaining as much background information as possible is strongly recommended

If you later decide to sell, export, or otherwise use the bird commercially, you must obtain an Article 10 certificate first.

Penalties for non-compliance

Failure to comply with CITES regulations is a serious criminal offence in the UK. It is illegal to:

Sell or commercially use an Annex A (Appendix I) bird without a valid Article 10 certificate
Trade in any bird that has been illegally imported

Possible penalties include:

Unlimited fines
Up to 5 years' imprisonment
Up to 7 years' imprisonment (under the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979 for import/export offences)
Seizure of the bird

Key takeaway

CITES regulations are designed to protect endangered species and ensure responsible ownership. If you own, breed, or plan to trade protected birds, always ensure proper identification, complete and accurate documentation, and full compliance with UK law.