Bird-lovers rush to rescue captive parrots abandoned in Chengdu woods

Hundreds of captive pet parrots have been released into woods in Chengdu, Sichuan province, prompting many volunteers and citizens to come to the rescue, as these captive birds are difficult to survive in the wild. Local departments of wild animal protection have also taken measures to rescue the birds, according to a report by Beijing Youth Daily.

On Oct 31, a plea for assistance from bird-lovers began circulating online, highlighting the release of hundreds of pet parrots in the Chengdu woods. The birds, believed to be non-native to the area, were first discovered by a forest management worker who regularly patrolled the woods. The news attracted volunteers and concerned citizens who rushed to the site to rescue the captive birds.

By the evening, dozens of parrots, including zebra finches, budgerigars, lovebirds, and more, had been identified by the rescue teams. Many of these birds had their wings clipped, preventing them from flying far and making them vulnerable to the elements. Volunteers and citizens managed to capture at least 100 of the released birds on Oct 31.

Animal lovers are particularly worried about the well-being of birds like the budgerigar, which is bred in captivity and lacks the ability to thrive in the wild. With the weather turning colder, their survival is even more precarious. Chengdu's Longquan Mountain Urban Forest Park Management Committee revealed that measures have been taken to rescue the birds, and a patrol and rescue team with thermal imaging equipment has been deployed to locate and assist the remaining birds deep within the woods.

The release of captive pet animals into the wild has drawn condemnation from many netizens, who likened it to a form of killing that carries no blessings but rather karmic consequences.

Li Li, the director of the Black Leopard Wildlife Conservation Station in Beijing, expressed concerns that these exotic pet birds, unequipped for hunting in the wild, would face dire consequences. Moreover, any birds that managed to survive could pose threats to native species. Improperly releasing animals like this is tantamount to a death sentence.