The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) seized two critically endangered birds suspected of being illegally traded during a test buy today (April 14).
AFCD staff found two critically endangered Bali mynas (Leucopsar rothschildi), which were suspected of being illegally traded via an online social media platform, while conducting illegal wildlife trade monitoring. The Bali myna is a listed species in Appendix I to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) with less than 50 mature birds in the wild globally. Local trading of the species is regulated under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586). AFCD officers mounted an enforcement action today and seized the above birds for further investigation.
A spokesman for the AFCD said, "Under the Ordinance, the possession of specimens of CITES Appendix I species for commercial purposes is generally prohibited. Any person importing, re-exporting, or possessing endangered species not in accordance with the Ordinance will be liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years upon conviction. The specimens will also be forfeited."
The spokesman said the Government is committed to protecting endangered species by combatting the illegal trading of wild animals. The AFCD will remain vigilant and continue monitoring various online platforms and social media, and proactively conducting enforcement operations to combat the illegal trade in endangered species.
The AFCD urges members of the public to report any suspected illegal trading of endangered species via espint@afcd.gov.hk.
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