Moving with Parakeets

Question
Chrys:

I have two three-year-old parakeets which have always lived in the same home. They're free-flyers (only in their cage at night).

I will be moving later this month from San Francisco to Chicago. Due to the short notice, I will be shipping out my belongings and flying.

My question is how to I get my girls over there? We won't be driving, and I don't know how they would handle air travel. Can you carry on birds?

Any help would be appreciated.

Answer
Hi, Robert.  Thanks for posting your questions.  I thought I responded yesterday to your posting, but it's still on the site, so I'll respond again.

You need to check with the airline you will be flying on to inquire about their policy for carrying animals onboard or in the cargo space of the aircraft.  Each airline has different policies.  Delta used to offer "Delta Dash" which was a good way to ship parrots, but I don't know if that service still exists.  I've shipped many pigeons via the US Postal Service overnight delivery, but I'm not sure if they still offer this service for birds either in light of the current West Nile Virus scare.  Also, some shippers prohibit shipments during this time of year when the temperatures are hot, especially the Postal Service, so you'll need to check with the airlines and the Post Office.

You're keets will do just fine.  Feed them up prior to the move and if possible, include a water bottle in their container so they can have a drink if necessary.  Most birds won't eat or drink during shipment, but if they get overheated, they'll need water.  Be aware that some shippers might require a veterinary health certificate and/or have certain requirements for the carrier the birds will be shipped in.  There will also be a fee for carrying the birds onboard or in the cargo area of a plane, and the Postal Service charges of course to ship.
Chrys