The Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA) has issued a stern warning against the illegal capture and caging of migratory birds during the winter season, emphasising that offenders face significant penalties.
Each year, the Maldives welcomes numerous protected avian species that migrate from across the globe to escape colder climates. However, the ERA reports widespread violations, including trapping, wing-cutting, and confinement of these birds, which violates both national laws and international conservation agreements.
Maldives is bound by the Convention on Migratory Species to safeguard these birds and their illegal capture undermines its ecological commitments, the ERA said.
The ERA has urged the public to immediately cease trapping activities and release any captive birds. Individuals caught capturing or selling protected species will incur fines, calling for citizen vigilance, asking residents to report violators through detailed complaints.