A Survey of African Grey Parrots (<i>Psittacus erithacus</i>) Trade and Trafficking in

Abstract

Intensive field based African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) trade and trafficking survey lasting 14 days was undertaken on the request of the Pheasant Conservation Group; International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), to determine the existence or non-existence of parrots trapping, trade
and trafficking in the Ikpan Forest Block of Oban group of forest, Nigeria. The surveys which identified and involved occupational parrots' trappers as guides was pursued with a view to identifying Nest sites, Nest density, Parrot roosts as well as investigate parrots trapping, trade and trafficking in the light of Nigeria's biodiversity conservation policy thrust and the country's continued notoriety in the international conservation arena . Studies were conducted using standard field equipment like binoculars, photo camera, vinyl flagging,
field camping equipment as well as protective wears. 5 occupational Parrot trappers (2 experienced and 3 trainees) were identified and recruited for the surveys as field guides, field assistants and porters. From the results, 5 trappers' stations were identified and explored and located on existing map. Practical trapping activities were observed and implements employed identified. Parrot catch per Man-day was 8 (range 4-12)
and price per wild adult parrot N2000, range (N2500-4500) while trained parrots costs N5000 (range N10, 000 - 15,000). During the surveys 16 parrots were captured while 50 parrots (range 110 - 160) were seen flying overhead especially at dusk. It was discovered that trade and trafficking in parrots existed in the study area and beyond with birds coming in from various localities and sold at major cities of Calabar, Port Harcourt, Lagos,
Abuja and Kano. Ineffective wildlife legislations have contributed to escalating illegal trade and trafficking in parrots which are protected by states and national laws. Effective legislation, monitoring, habitat protection and conservation education are recommended for sustainable biodiversity conservation in Nigeria.

Ethiopian Journal of Environmental Studies of Management Vol. 1 (2) 2008: pp. 68-73