Owning Corvidae in Australia?

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Bakagee
Bakagee's picture
Owning Corvidae in Australia?

Hi all! 

I've been wondering for a while now, I've done a bit of research, and from what it looks like, owning a crow/raven in Australia isn't legal?

I've checked the licensing in Victoria, and nowhere does it mention being able to keep a corvid as a pet. 

It seems that only with a Wildlife Control license can one withhold a corvid, and even then, it is through removal/destroying of the birds. 

Does anyone know if there is any way to own/keep a corvid (legally) within Australia? 

Little Ravens are my favourite birds due to their playful and intelligent personalities, and I'd love to be able to have one in my life.

Thanks,

Bec :)

Woko
Woko's picture

Hi there Bec

I can see that you have a real appreciation of Little Ravens. And, yes, they are very intelligent.

Given that Australia's wildlife generally & native birds in particular are under huge threat from human activities I'm wondering why you would prefer to have a Corvid in your control rather than contribute to Corvid habitat protection & restoration. I do worry that we humans are so self-absorbed that we find it difficult to look outside ourselves at what is going on around us, especially in relation to what's left of our natural environment on which we ultimately depend for our survival. Notwithstanding the Little Raven's adaptability to human interference, could I suggest that there is a greater chance of Little Ravens' survival as a species if we protect & restore its habitat rather than cage & control them.

Bakagee
Bakagee's picture

Hi Woko!

I certainly do have an appreciation of Little Ravens! I see them practically every day, as their population is booming in my area, and their presence brings mirth wherever they wander. Their playful personalities, intelligent manner of conduct and humorous interactions and shenanigans bring light to the lives around them. 

Unfortunately, I have had no luck in finding any organisations/groups that are restoring Corvid habitat in my area, so I suppose the most I can do right now is make my backyard as Corvid-friendly as possible!

I think the survival of Corvids in general is not so bleak, as they are a highly adaptable genus of bird and thrive in most any environment, save for heavily forested areas, wherein they would likely be intelligent enough to adapt to it anyway. 

By the by, I agree with the fact that maintaining natural habitat must play a pivotal role in development in society, and our cities do tend to block out the more sensitive species within native Australia. Over-development of land can be the downfall of society if it is not actively managed. So I commend your dedication to being active towards the cause, though it was a tad irrelevant to the question I had initially asked.

Although your reply didn't answer my question, really, thanks for contributing to the discussion nonetheless! I will look out for ways to improve my locale in terms of Corvid habitation!

I still wish to know if there's any way to own a corvid, as they are incredible birds, and I would like to potentially own a beautiful and playful bird such as a Little Raven in the future. I would love to develop a relationship to a Corvid such as a Little Raven, closer than just birdwatching distance. I'm living with my parents currently, so it is just out of curiosity's sake I am asking the community.

Thanks 

Bec

:)

Lightuningbird
Lightuningbird's picture

I think all you need is a license for birds to have ravens, but I’m not entirely certain.

Wimmera mally region, Vic.

AJ Anderson
AJ Anderson's picture

Taking Native birds/animals from the wild is illegal. 

Corvids are not included in the Taxa of wildlife that may be held by private persons with a "private wildlife license".

https://www.wildlife.vic.gov.au/keeping-and-trading-wildlife/private-wildlife-licences

http://www.legislation.vic.gov.au/domino/Web_Notes/LDMS/LTObject_Store/ltobjst10.nsf/DDE300B846EED9C7CA257616000A3571/88773FE706A8FF1FCA25832800146EBD/$FILE/13-64sra005%20authorised.pdf

Wildlife may only be cared for legally by veterinarians and DELWP authorised Wildlife Shelters and Foster Carers, so your best bet is to join a Wildlife shelter : how-to-become-a-wildlife-carerhttps://www.wildlifevictoria.org.au/get-involved/volunteer 

AJ Anderson
AJ Anderson's picture

I understand habitat destruction is the cause of wildlife decline, but Ravens are listed as LC (least concern) and their populations are increasing:

  https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22706036/130408880

https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22706033/94047450

Lightuningbird
Lightuningbird's picture

If you where to buy one from a breeder, you could one a raven. It is illegal to take anything from the wild. (I’m pretty shaw this also includes plants)

the only way you can legally have a bird from the wild is if you found it sick injured. (Hit by car, beak and feather, extra.

Wimmera mally region, Vic.

AJ Anderson
AJ Anderson's picture

Lightuningbird wrote:

If you where to buy one from a breeder, you could one a raven. It is illegal to take anything from the wild.

the only way you can legally have a bird from the wild is if you found it sick injured.

No, They are a native species, so it is illegal to keep or possess, not just take from the wild. 

Sick and injured wildlife need to be cared for by licensed vets and carers. So it is still illegal.

Lightuningbird
Lightuningbird's picture

Ok. I’ll keep that in minde. (I realy don’t know much about licensing).

Wimmera mally region, Vic.

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