Wildlife department rescues 26 lizards in Lal Suhanra Park

Reptiles were ensnared in 300 illegal traps across various areas of Lal Suhanra National Park

LAHORE:

Punjab Wildlife Authorities have successfully rescued and released 26 lizards that were ensnared in traps illegally set within the confines of Lal Suhanra National Park.

A local group of nomads had placed over 300 traps across various areas of the National Park.

Upon receiving information about these traps, the Punjab Wildlife staff swiftly responded by locating and recovering 26 lizards that had fallen victim to these traps.

Sources indicate that out of the 26 lizards rescued, 13 had sustained broken backs due to their capture.

Local nomads had captured these lizards, and some of them were reportedly cooked and consumed.

The wildlife staff also discovered three lizards that had been prepared for cooking.

Reports suggest that the lizards with broken backs were intended for sale to producers of ‘sanda oil’.

This incident raises concerns about the illegal trading of wildlife and its impact on biodiversity.

In addition to the lizard rescue operation, a hunter engaged in the illegal hunting of a rare falcon was apprehended by the wildlife team in the Tabi area of Mianwali.

The authorities confiscated hunting equipment, including a snare basket, as well as two live mice.

The accused was fined Rs30,000 for his actions.

Furthermore, another operation conducted by the wildlife staff in Khushab, under the guidance of Deputy Director Wildlife Sargodha Region Urooj Zaheer, led to the arrest of three poachers involved in the unlawful hunting of wild quail. Legal proceedings have been initiated against them.

Rahim Yar Khan Wildlife District Assistant Director, Muhammad Sultan Anjum, and his team apprehended two individuals engaged in the illegal hunting of wild quail.

They were found with netting gear, and legal action has been initiated against them as well.