Aviculture

Q 8: Is raising birds prohibited? If so, please mention the evidence. It should be noted that these birds live and breed in cages.

A: It is permissible to raise the birds and keep them in cages, so long as they are fed and watered and given whatever care is needed. The former generations of Muslims used to raise them and they were not reprimanded. It was narrated by Al-Bukhari in his Sahih (authentic book) (may Allah be merciful to him) from Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) who said, The Prophet (peace be upon him) was the best of people in attitude. I had a brother called Abu `Umayr who had just been weaned, I think. When he (peace be upon him) came, he would say, ‘O Abu `Umayr what happened to the nughayr? A nughayr [young sparrow or small bird] with which he used to play.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings of Allah be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and Companions!