The Black-Hooded Red Siskin is one of the most beautiful birds in the world. Unfortunately, these poor little birds were trapped to the point of near extinction for years to supply the cage bird trade. Their feathers used to adorn ladies hats and costumes.
The Red Siskin Project was developed to maintain healthy birds to supply the cage bird trade as well as support efforts to help the siskins in the wild. We always thought it would be wonderful if we could get some siskins for our collection, little did we know then that they are not readly available. We quickly realized that the only way we would be able to get any siskins was to join the RSP.
After our application to join the RSP was approved we submitted an application for a permit to the USFWS. In August of 2003 we were issued a permit from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service allowing us to keep the siskins in our home. Soon after, we traveled to the Milwaukee airport to pick up our siskins, which were shipped from Oregon by Paula Hanson, RSP Director. The first year they produced 3 babies, the next year only 2 babies. You can see that they are not free breeders and to get any babies is truly an accomplishment! The origional birds that we received always belong to the American Federation of Aviculture but the breeder is entitled to 50% of any offspring that they produce. This is no "money maker" project for the breeder, I don't know of any breeders that sell their babies. So far, all that I know of keep the babies in the project! To become a member of the RSP you must first belong to the American Federation of Aviculture which costs $45.00 per year (household). Also, you must renew your USFW permit every 3 years which costs $25.00. It is up to you to purchase bird bands, special seed mix and provide vet care for the birds in your possession. When it comes time to send some of your birds to another project member, you are responsible for making shipping arrangements and covering any shipping costs. I want to publicly thank the Wisconsin Cage Bird Club of Oshkosh, WI for a $250.00 donation in 2004 which has helped us with these expenses. It means alot to us to know that this club's members are willing to join us in our efforts to help these endangered birds. Thank you!
Photo by Ron Castaner, my friend and fellow Red Siskin Project member.
More info and pictures to come...
