A successful operation was conducted by the Wildlife Crime Control Unit of the Forest Department in the bird shops and raw market area of Mirpur-01 in the capital this morning, a press release said. 

A total of 50 native wild animals, which were being illegally confined and displayed for sale, were seized during the drive.

The rescued wildlife includes three hill mynas, two crested mynas, two jungle mynas, two spotted doves, fourteen common mynas, two Alexandrine parakeets, twenty-three parrots, one buzzard, and one Asian koel.

The operation was led by Wildlife Inspector Nargis Sultana and carried out by a six-member experienced team. The drive covered several shops and locations within the market area and was supported by ‘SWAN’, an organisation dedicated to environmental and wildlife conservation.

Most of the rescued wild animals were later released into safe and suitable natural habitats as per the directions of the concerned authorities. The sick or injured animals have been kept safely at the office for temporary care and will also be released into the wild once they recover.

According to the Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act, 2012, the collection, rearing, sale, and transportation of any native wild animal is legally prohibited and considered a punishable offense. The Wildlife Crime Control Unit has reaffirmed its commitment to continue regular drives in bird markets to ensure the protection and conservation of wildlife.