Buyer & Seller Safety

The Aviary Hub is a listings platform — we are not involved in any transaction between a buyer and a seller, and we do not hold funds, process payments between users, or guarantee any transaction. Following these general safety practices can help protect both sides.

Meeting safely

Meet in person where possible, in a well-lit, appropriate location – many people choose a public place for the initial meeting, or bring a friend or family member along
Avoid travelling alone to an unfamiliar or isolated address, especially for a first meeting
Trust your instincts – if a seller pressures you to meet somewhere unusual, or refuses a reasonable request to see the animal’s living conditions, treat this as a warning sign
Tell someone else where you’re going and when you expect to be back

Inspecting the animal

Ask to see the animal alert, active, and in its normal living environment before agreeing to buy
Ask for evidence of health, age, and any documentation relevant to the species (see our DAFM Information page for registration requirements that may apply)
Take your time – a genuine seller will not rush a legitimate buyer

For Buyers

Research the seller and check whether they are a private individual or a trader/business – see our Trader and Consumer Information page, since your consumer rights may differ
View the animal in person where possible before paying
Verify documents and be suspicious of unusually low prices
Avoid pressure and avoid sending payment by untraceable methods before collection
Never share a one-time verification code with anyone, and avoid fake courier or escrow links
Keep records of your communication and any payment made, in case you need them later
Arrange veterinary checks where appropriate, and report suspicious listings

For Sellers

Describe listings honestly and use current photographs
Verify buyers seem genuine before agreeing to a sale, and protect your own personal and financial information
Communicate through safe channels and use secure, traceable payment methods
Never share a one-time verification code, and do not click suspicious links
Comply with trader, tax, welfare, and registration rules that apply to you
Keep records of the sale and retain proof of ownership
Never accept a screenshot as proof of payment – confirm funds have genuinely arrived through your own bank or payment provider before handing over an animal or item.

Our role

The Aviary Hub provides the technology for sellers to advertise and buyers to browse and make contact. We do not process, facilitate, hold funds for, or guarantee any sale. All arrangements – including price, payment, viewing, and collection – are made directly and privately between buyer and seller.