Wild Parrot Encounters in San Francisco

The squawking of our local parrot flocks is unmistakable. If you follow the sound trail, you're bound to encounter tree tops of chattering birds with occasional displays of acrobatics. Enjoying the parrots from a distance is a delight for animal and bird lovers. Getting too close can result in a ticket and fine.

In June 2007, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors voted to ban the feeding of wild parrots in town -- a measure supported by Mark Bittner, author of The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill. Bittner argued that public feeding was detrimental to the health and safety of our beloved parrots.

To learn more about the impetus behind this legislation, read Mark Bittner's in-depth essay on the parrots, their feeding and the general well-being of the birds.

Bittner also maintains a photo gallery and information page on our local flocks.