African Grey Parrots are among Africa’s most iconic and intelligent birds, yet decades of trapping for the international wild bird trade, habitat loss, and other human pressures have profoundly affected wild populations. Protecting this species requires more than preventing capture — it requires understanding the people, places, and behaviors that shape its survival.

This presentation will explore the World Parrot Trust’s conservation work for African Grey Parrots, with a focus on efforts to protect wild populations and their habitat, strengthen conservation capacity, and engage local communities in long-term stewardship. From supporting field research and population monitoring to addressing illegal trapping and building awareness of the value of wild parrots, a approach demonstrates how targeted conservation actions can work together to address complex threats. Erin Katzner is the Education and Outreach Director at the World Parrot Trust. Previously, she has worked as President & CEO at the Carolina Raptor Center, Vice President of Education and Marketing at The Peregrine Fund, President and current CFO of the International Association of Avian Trainers and Educators, co-founder and current Chair of the Avian Conservation Center of Appalachia, Assistant Director at the National Aviary, and on the show staff at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium. She has also held positions at Leadership Pittsburgh, Inc. and West Virginia University. She loves traveling, pottery, bird watching, and spending time with her dogs, Helix and Maple.