From hobby to multi-million dollar industry: Pakistan's exotic bird trade

Birdkeeping, a long-cherished pastime in Pakistan, has evolved into a thriving industry in recent years.

In Karachi’s bustling Saddar district lies the country’s largest bird market, where enthusiasts can find an array of local and imported bird species. The market, brimming with colorful and vibrant birds, reflects the rising demand and growing trade of exotic birds in the country.

The rise of exotic bird trading in Pakistan can be traced back to 2005 when these birds were first imported. Since then, local breeding programs have flourished, gradually making these once-rare species more widely available.

Azam Khan, a seasoned bird trader in Karachi, highlighted the variety of exotic species available in the market, including Macaws, African Grey Parrots, Malakand Cockatoos, Blue-Eyed Cockatoos, Lories, and Amazons.

According to Khan, the value of these birds increases significantly when they exhibit unique traits such as vibrant plumage, good health, or the ability to talk. Their capacity to breed twice a year also makes them a lucrative investment for owners, offering a consistent source of income.

A hobby worth millions

Muhammad Hamza, who purchased his first bird in 1996, soon ventured into breeding, turning his hobby into a thriving business. Today, the Karachi-based bird enthusiast is actively involved in importing and exporting exotic birds, catering to both domestic and international demand.

“This is a multi-million-dollar industry,” Hamza remarked, emphasizing the sector's untapped potential. He pointed out that Pakistan’s climate is ideal for bird breeding, eliminating the need for artificial environments often required in other countries.

Over the past decade, the industry has attracted not just hobbyists but also professionals and entrepreneurs. Enthusiasts spend substantial sums on birds and their specialized diets, which include sunflower seeds, fresh fruits such as apples, guavas, and grapes, and premium nuts like almonds, pistachios, and cashews.

The allure of exotic birds lies in their beauty, rarity, and breeding capabilities, making them a profitable asset. Birds with distinctive colors, trained behaviors, or exceptional breeding traits can fetch prices exceeding PKR 2 million in local markets.

In international markets, these prices often double. Adding to their appeal, many of these birds undergo DNA testing to determine their gender—a critical factor for breeders.

Hamza estimates that over 500 bird species, including Indian Alexandrines, Lorikeets, Derbyan Parakeets, and Green Ring-Necks with various mutations, are now available in Pakistan. As local breeders continue to refine genetic traits and develop unique mutations, some birds have reached astronomical market values.

Tackling challenges

Despite the industry’s growth, challenges in bird care, breeding, and health management persist. The Qasim Shah Live Bird Breeding and Research Center, led by Syed Muhammad Faheem, is addressing these issues in Karachi’s Gadap area.

The center, housing over 60 bird species, combines natural breeding methods with advanced technology to enhance productivity and monitor health.

Faheem notes that initial challenges arose from a lack of knowledge about the birds’ diets, habitats, and disease prevention. Through meticulous research and documentation, the center has developed comprehensive guidelines to assist breeders in overcoming these obstacles.

One fascinating discovery made at the center was the behavior of Macaws during hatching. Cameras installed in enclosures revealed that these birds perform celebratory dances upon the birth of their chicks—a unique insight into their social behavior.

Growing economic driver

Societies like the Love Birds Society Pakistan have emerged to foster camaraderie among bird enthusiasts. Led by Dr. Saad Irfan, the society organizes events, workshops, and bird beauty contests judged by international experts. These initiatives aim to promote the hobby, share knowledge, and inspire future generations of bird lovers.

The society also plays a key role in raising awareness about the potential of the exotic bird industry, advocating for its recognition as a formal cottage industry.

Stakeholders argue that the trade holds significant economic promise for Pakistan. Muhammad Hamza highlighted the rising international demand for Pakistan-bred birds, particularly in the Middle East, and stressed the importance of streamlined export policies.

“Birds that were once imported are now being bred locally in abundance,” he said, noting that the global demand for Pakistani birds is increasing due to their quality and competitive pricing.

With government support and appropriate regulatory frameworks, the industry could strengthen its position in the global market. Tax incentives, export-friendly policies, and technical training programs for breeders could boost production and generate substantial foreign exchange earnings.