TNAG-0532-FCO40-627-Conservation-of-wildlife-in-Hong-Kong-1976 — Page 9

(21)

Recommends that governments, falconers' associations, and responsible authorities ensure that

where falconry is not practised, it is not introduced

where falconry has survived, the number of falconers should be restricted

- that keeping birds of prey as pets by the general public be

strictly forbidden.

that the flying of species of birds of prey not occurring naturally should be carefully controlled to prevent the accidental

introduction of a breeding population

each falconer should be licenced

that keeping birds of prey on show for financial reward be strictly limited to zoos of official status and under competent scientific supervision;

(22) Recommends that all governments declare protected birds of prey

killed, illegally captured or taken under licence or found dead to be national property and not retained as private possessions, and that commercial stuffing of birds of prey be prohibited;

(23) Congratulates the Spanish government on its excellent legislation and

its educational efforts conerning birds of prey, urges the Spanish government to reconsider its policy of large scale conversion of oak (Quercus ilex) woods and other areas with natural vegetation in Western Spain into plantations of eucalyptus and agricultural areas, thus endangering the Spanish Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca adalberti) and the Black Vulture (Aegyptus monachus) as well as several north European bird species wintering in those areas;

(24)

Recognising that the auritius Kestrel (Falco punctatus) is the rarest and most threatened raptor in the world and, that immediate conservation measures are necessary if this species is to survive, recommends that the government of Mauritius cooperate fully with international conservation groups in the effort to breed the kestrel in captivity and, take prompt action in protecting the Festrel's forest habitat by declaring the Black River Gorges and surrounding natural areas a National Park.