The pets section at Souq Waqif is attracting a large number of visitors ever since winter set in, promising a good season for the shop owners.
“African Greys are a bit expensive, around QR1,500 per piece, but we consider them as celebrities over other pets here,” said a pet shop owner.
He noted that African Greys, as well as other parrots of different colours, are highly appealing to many people and possess a unique charm that other pets do not have.
Apart from the weather, the weekly auction for birds such as pigeons and parrots and a few types of animals also help attract more visitors, whom pet sellers consider as potential customers and buyers. The auction takes place in the morning and in the afternoon.
An auctioneer pointed out that only birds and small pets such as cats with health certificates and rabbits can be auctioned.
Bids start at QR10 for small birds and can go up to hundreds of riyals.
An employee of one of the pet shops said the demand for birds and other pets is normally high during this period and “we take advantage of it to make up for the summer.”
He added the demand for pet accessories and food has substantially increased since the first week of December.
“Some people visit the Souq just to hear the chirping of these birds, some of which can even speak a few words, fascinating the visitors,” the employee noted.
Like African Greys, puppies and Persian cats are also appealing to many, especially couples and children.
Shops also see an increase in sales of iguanas and turtles of various sizes among many young buyers.
However, a regular visitor observed that a number of shops seemed to be “inconsiderate” with their own pets, leaving them untidy and without any protection from the cold weather.
“The cleanliness in the area has improved but I hope some shops will do more to tackle the foul smell emanating from their premises,” said Catherine, a Doha resident who
frequents the place.