The World Parrot Trust (WPT) is a parrot conservation and welfare organization put in place to direct and implement programs to protect parrots. The organization possesses deep knowledge about parrot species and have adopted the scientific approach to monitoring parrot species and populations. WPT is involved in the lives and well-being of both wild parrot species and those of companion parrots. They work to address urgent issues in the wild with the objective to bring about meaningful and permanent change by partnering with countries and individuals. WPT also provides caregivers with information for quality parrot care through online forums and multimedia resources.
In 2012, World Parrot Trust USA initiated a petition, urging supporters to join them in their cause to encourage CITES to suspend the trade of African Grey parrots. They specifically highlighted concern for populations in Congo, one of the largest exporters, exceeding their quota of 5,000 birds, and Cameroon, where they have defied their zero export quota by exporting a total of 5,000 birds in 4 years.
Efforts to convince CITES to implement trade suspension in the Congo and Cameroon would spare thousands of birds, and alleviate trends of captivity for the species. Unfortunately, this intervention was met with disappointment as CITES’ Standing Committee approved an annual export of 3,000 greys in Camaroon, where it was previously zero export quota.
In addition to their efforts to reduce trade in wild caught African greys, the World Parrot Trust continues to work with airlines and cargo carriers to track trade levels. They are also collaborating with other organisations to re-establish wild populations and to raise awareness about the predicament of wild African grey parrots.