When Quaker Parrots were introduced in New Jersey in the early 1970's, NJ Fish and Wildlife placed them on the list of "Potentially Dangerous Species" for the purpose of "monitoring" what effect--if any--they would have on local bird species and crops.
Over 45 YEARS later, they are STILL on that list. Being on that list gives them the same status as a pest: they can be killed, trapped, or otherwise harmed without protection from any Federal, State, or local agency.
For the purposes of this petition, "Potentially Dangerous Species" means any exotic mammal, bird, reptile, or amphibian, or nongame species, that, in the opinion of the Division of Fish and Wildlife, is capable of inflicting serious or fatal injuries or that has
the potential to become an agricultural pest or a menace to the public health or indigenous wildlife populations. Years of research and have proven that the parakeets POSE NO THREAT and do not belong on the list.
45 years is long enough to "observe" a species and formulate an opinion. The phrase 'More research is needed' must never become a euphemism for a failure to act.
Please offer your support and ask New Jersey Legislators to REMOVE Monk Parakeets from New Jersey's list of "Potentially Dangerous" Species.
