Thanks for all of the interest. Let's cover the issues brought up in this thread:
1. The issues with the USDA are being addressed via waivers. The issues aren't with Thailand, they lie in the surrounding countries (Korea, Taiwan, Singapore). Our stateside contacts are working with people inside of the USDA to address these issues. These are people who have active working relationships with the USDA and we are confident that we will get the issues resolved. The talks have already progressed into which flights are candidates for travel for the birds (cargo vs passenger, airlines, layovers). Honestly, we think this is going to be one of the easier issues to overcome. We are still awaiting word as to whether a mandatory quarantine period will be required. If there is, we are prepared to cross that bridge.
2. Cost: We are estimating, very conservatively, $2000 for the pair imported into the US. This covers cost of the birds, shipping, and all fees associated with travel. This is an estimate only, but a very conservative one. Cost of shipping is going to depend on location. Figure $300-$500 for shipping to the East Coast/Fl. We have an extensive network of shippers that we will prefer to use because of the relationship, and the care of the animals. Obviously, the buyer can dictate shipping, but we're going to set it up so that the birds travel in the handbuilt crates that they will arrive in the US in, under supervision of the people we trust, and have working relationships with to ensure the highest percentages of a positive outcome.
3a. The largest cost of importing/exporting animals via the US is the cost of the inspector that travels with the animals to the tune of 175/hr. This is why whether we ship 1 or 50, the cost is the same. The care of the animals is their single highest priority. It's the reason these birds are going to be shipped in handbuilt wooden crates, paired, most likely, and not shipped in boxes or bags.
3. The birds are papered. There is a database in Thailand. Those papers will travel with the birds.
4. At this time, we have 2 different breeders on board. Because of the minor language barrier we have with our Thai client, we're still narrowing down what breeds are available. We are confident that both the Burmese and the Imperator peafowl are available. We also think that 1st or 2nd generation Java are available. I'll let you know more as I know more. The birds are yearling birds. Adults are available, as well. That said, our Thai client feels that he can find a better price for the birds, and will keep me updated as things develops.
So... As I hear more, I'll pass it along. I'm happy to answer questions, or find an answer for the ones that I can't.