Why Aviculture Matters
Aviculture is more than a hobby—it is a lifelong commitment to the care, understanding, and preservation of birds. It connects individuals through a shared responsibility to promote ethical practices and long-term stewardship.
Through education, responsible breeding, and community collaboration, aviculture plays an important role in supporting both captive and wild bird populations. These efforts help ensure that knowledge, experience, and best practices continue to evolve and are passed on to future generations.
The American Federation of Aviculture exists to support this mission by providing resources, fostering collaboration, and promoting informed, responsible bird ownership.
Our Story
The American Federation of Aviculture was founded during a pivotal moment in avicultural history.
In the early 1970s, an outbreak of Exotic Newcastle Disease in California led to the widespread euthanasia of thousands of healthy birds in private collections. At the same time, proposed legislation threatened to severely restrict or ban the ownership of exotic birds.
In response, bird owners and organizations came together in March of 1974 to form the American Federation of Aviculture—creating a unified organization dedicated to education, cooperation, and responsible aviculture.
What began as a response to crisis has grown into a global organization supporting aviculturists worldwide.
Today, AFA continues to serve as a steady and informed voice—bridging tradition, education, and the future of aviculture.
AFA Timeline
Early 1970s
Disease outbreak and proposed legislation threaten private bird ownership, creating urgent challenges for aviculture
March 1974
The American Federation of Aviculture is formed to unite bird owners and provide a clear, organized voice for the community
Late
1970s – 1990s
Affiliated clubs are established and membership expands, strengthening collaboration across the United States
2000s – 2010s
Growth in educational programs, publications, and outreach supporting responsible aviculture and conservation efforts
Today
Continued leadership in education, avian welfare, conservation, and legislative awareness for the global avicultural community
What We Do
Education
Providing trusted resources and guidance for bird owners
Avian Welfare
Promoting ethical care, breeding, and husbandry practices
Conservation
Supporting efforts that protect bird species and habitats
Legislative Awareness
Informing the avicultural community on issues that impact responsible bird ownership
Who We Are
The American Federation of Aviculture is a non-profit 501(c)(3) educational organization with members across the United States and around the world.
As a federation, AFA brings together affiliated bird clubs and individual aviculturists, creating a unified and collaborative community built on shared knowledge and experience.
Through this network, AFA supports education, avian welfare, conservation efforts, and legislative awareness—providing a central voice for responsible bird ownership.