Exotic bird farms may consist of a few aviaries in the backyard, a few cages in a room or basement, or many cages in a separate building or outdoors. Aviculturists representing most of these examples have made application to and become certified by MAP. The goals of these individual aviculturists, or bird farmers, are quite varied.
Some have small collections of very rare and expensive birds. They wish to maintain these birds in good health, and perhaps they may breed. Youngsters might be held back for future stock, or be sold or traded. Although income from these birds is important, conservation of rare birds is also a goal.
Other aviculturists have large farms with hundreds of pairs of birds. These farms are production-oriented with the goal of raising hundreds of healthy chicks destined for the pet market.
Other aviculturists have small backyard aviaries where they raise a few youngsters every year; their goal is to enjoy their birds and to earn some money.
Some aviculturists combine an interest in conservation of rare or unusual species with an interest in income-producing birds.
Although the goals of these individual aviculturists may vary, the success of their bird farms will depend upon using good avicultural husbandry practices and the Closed Aviary Concept.
Preparing for MAP Certification:
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