Articles posted by PASA
New research confirms that Chlamydia psittaci can spread between different bird species sharing close housing. The findings reinforce the importance of separating bird groups, controlling shared equipment and protecting breeders from contaminated dust and aerosols.
Avian Research Brief — 30 October 2026 Read More »
A Constitutional Court judgment highlights why bird breeders should raise concerns early, keep submission records and explain the practical impact of proposed laws.
Public participation: why bird breeders must speak up early Read More »
SMT has grown from a single laboratory in Bloemfontein into a national network supporting animal health and food safety. Through veterinary diagnostics, chemical efficacy testing and an online client portal, SMT helps clients turn laboratory results into practical decisions.
SMT Labs: Supporting Animal Health and Food Safety Through Science Read More »
Met byna vier dekades se praktiese ervaring in avikultuur deel Ben Minnaar sy kennis van kunsmatige uitbroei en die handgrootmaak van papegaaikuikens tydens ’n praktiese Wet Lab by die PASA Expo 2026.
ONTMOET ONS SPREKER: BEN MINNAAR Read More »
Meet Dr Michèle Pfab, Scientific Coordinator for the Scientific Authority at SANBI, and learn more about her important work in biodiversity conservation, sustainable wildlife use, TOPS and international CITES trade.
Meet Dr Michèle Pfab Read More »
Healthy-looking parrots can carry and transmit psittacosis without showing signs of illness. New research highlights why strict quarantine, good hygiene and veterinary guidance remain essential when introducing newly purchased birds.
PASA Avian Research Brief Read More »
What is really driving wildlife towards extinction? We examine the major causes of bird and animal extinction and why effective conservation must address the actual threats.
What Are the Main Causes of Bird and Animal Extinction? Read More »
1. Healthy-looking parrots can carry parrot bornavirus Scientific Reports — published 15 June 2026 Researchers tested 83 captive parrots from 13 species in India. PaBV-4 RNA was detected in 44 birds, including 5 of 26 apparently healthy birds housed with suspected PDD cases. Practical takeaway: Do not rely on appearance when introducing or selling birds.
PASA Avian Research Brief Read More »
As the 2026 breeding season approaches, the Parrot Breeders Association of Southern Africa (PASA) reminds all members of the importance of complying with both South African legislation and international regulations governing the keeping, breeding, and trade of parrots. This notice reinforces the guidance previously issued in PASA Bulletin – 25 September 2024 regarding the sale
NOTICE TO MEMBERS – SALE OF PARROT EGGS & CITES COMPLIANCE Read More »
Foods Never to Feed 🚫 Avocado🚫 Chocolate🚫 Alcohol🚫 Caffeine🚫 Onion🚫 Salty junk food🚫 Sugary snacks🚫 Moldy seed 📌 If in doubt, leave it out. Water = Nutrition Too Fresh clean water daily is critical. Change water: ✔ Every morning✔ Again in hot weather✔ More often with chicks Dirty water = disease risk. Reading Your Bird’s
PASA Parrot Nutrition #7: Foods never to feed, water, reading youre bird’s condition. Read More »
Essential for: ✔ Eggshells✔ Bone strength✔ Muscle function✔ Nerve health Sources: Warning: Too much calcium without balance can also cause problems. 📌 Always balance with proper vitamin D3 and husbandry.
PASA Parrot Nutrition #6: Calcium – The Forgotten Nutrient Read More »
Goal: Grow strong new feathers. Feathers are mostly made of protein, so nutrition matters greatly. Increase: ✅ Protein moderately✅ Amino acids✅ Omega fats✅ Vegetables rich in vitamins Best Foods: Support: ✔ Bathing opportunities✔ Reduced stress✔ Good sleep Avoid: ❌ Overbreeding during heavy molt❌ Poor seed-only diets 📌 Poor feathers often reflect poor diet.
PASA Parrot Nutrition #5: Molting Season Nutrition Read More »