Writer's Alert-Animals are not objects, to be bought & sold

August 20, 2007

New York Magazine's Shopping section features the latest accessories, fashion items, and must-haves of the moment under "Best Bets." This week's "Best Bets" included a lovebird. The title was "Bright, Sunshiny Things" and described lovebirds as "loyal and affectionate," then listed them for $179.99 and available at 33rd & Bird, a pet store that sells birds in the Bronx.

Please write a letter to the editor of New York Magazine reminding readers that birds are not commodities to be bought and sold. Encourage anyone with the time, money, and the willingness to make a lifetime commitment to a bird to adopt from a rescue group rather than supporting the irresponsible breeding of birds into a world where there are already millions in need of permanent loving homes. Send letters to nyletters. See "Bright, Sunshiny Things" online. Use the information below to help you draft your letter or learn more on IDA's exotic birds campaign pages. * Birds are not commodities or things to be bought and sold, but sentient beings with interests of their own. * Birds are not always "affectionate." This type of misleading information is responsible for impulse purchase of animals and contributes to the epidemic of homeless "pet" birds. * The captive bird crisis is silent and tragic. Many birds suffer neglect behind closed doors or abandonment when their novelty wears off. Letters should be less than 200 words. Please do not send attachments and please remember to include your

full name, address, and phone number (for verification purposes--street names and phone numbers will not be published) and not to use any wording in this alert. Please send a blind copy of your letter to idainfo. Sincerely,Kristie PhelpsCommunications Director

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