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Large number of protected parrots seized
A large number of protected parrots and hornbills were seized by the Agriculture and Fisheries Department (AFD) from Mongkok pet shops in a series of operations during the past few days.
Following investigations, AFD field officers raided a number of pet shops in Mongkok in the past two days and seized 52 parrots and three hornbills from four of the shops. The protected birds are believed to have not been covered by possession licence, issued in advance by AFD.
The seized birds, comprising one species of hornbill and six species of parrots, are estimated to be valued at $70,000.
Parrots are usually found in Asian and African regions.
Commenting on the operations, an AFD conservation officer, Mr Cheung Chi- sun said the number of parrots species seized in this operation was the largest in years.
Mr Cheung pointed out that parrots were wildlife species protected under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
"Anyone importing, exporting or possessing these Appendix II birds without valid licence would have breached the Animals and Plants (Protection of Endangered Species).On conviction, the maximum penalty will be a $500,000 fine plus one year's imprisonment if the birds are for a commercial purpose," he said.
As for Appendix I wildlife, the maximum penalty is a $5 million fine plus two years' imprisonment if they are for a commercial purpose.
Wildlife under Appendix I are highly endangered species which include rhino and tiger as well as their parts, gall bladders and bile from certain species of bear, and medicines claiming to contain rhino or tiger ingredients.
Investigations on the case are still continuing.
End/Friday, May 5, 1995