It is the exporter's responsibility to ensure that the animal meets the importing country requirements.

Information about the process required to import breeder poultry into the United States of America (US) can be found on the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention websites.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service regulates the importation of birds. Poultry arriving at US ports of entry may need to be inspected by US Fish and Wildlife Inspectors.

Email

LAIE@USDA.GOV

Refer to these and the Department’s websites for current information about importing animals (including any suspensions).

Note

Where an importing country issues an import permit, the exporter must ensure the animal meets any requirements in the permit.

The USDA defines poultry to include chickens, doves, ducks, geese, grouse, guinea fowl, partridges, pea fowl, pheasants, pigeons, quail, swans, and turkeys. Pigeons and doves (columbiform species) are allowed to import as commercial birds, theatrical birds, or pet birds. Which import category to apply under depends on how the birds are to be used and how many birds are in the shipment.

As required by the importing country.

Refer to the USDA information for importing live poultry into the United States.

Permission to move birds out of Australia

You may need permission under wildlife trade laws to move birds out of Australia. Refer to the Department’s International wildlife trade requirements. There is specific guidance for non-commercial wildlife trade for public exhibition, scientific research, conservation breeding and personal use.

Email

wildlifetrade@dcceew.gov.au

Exporters are advised to check the USDA Veterinary Service website for updated Import Notices and advice on entry requirements for avian importation.

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) may impose temporary trade restrictions as disease outbreaks occur. Refer to the USDA List of APHIS-recognised animal health statuses of regions regarding specific animal diseases or pests for more information.

Transport requirements

The importing country may have specific transport requirements and you should check this.

Pre and post arrival quarantine requirements

Poultry (not including hatching eggs of any kind) must be quarantined at one of the USDA facilities listed below or private quarantine may occur in an APHIS approved zoological facility.

Note

An import permit will not be issued until quarantine arrangements have been finalised.

Based on importing country website and information.

Entry last reviewed 12 October 2022.