Sindh Wildlife Department authorities conducted an operation on the Super Highway and intercepted 54 turtle doves being smuggled from Peshawar to Karachi via a passenger bus. These birds were subsequently released into the skies in Malir.
Javed Meher, the Sindh Wildlife Conservator, reported that the operation led to the confiscation of 54 turtle doves that were being illegally transported from Peshawar to Karachi by poachers.
During the investigation, none of the travelers claimed ownership of the birds. After ensuring they were provided with food and water, the authorities set the birds free.
The investigation into the smuggling of birds between provinces is still ongoing. Sindh Wildlife Department officials, namely Ejaz Nondani, Uday Singh, and Madan Lal, received recognition for their commendable work in this operation. The captured birds were set free in the open air near Malir.
Javed Meher further explained that the turtle dove, also known as European fakhta, is a migratory bird renowned for its enchanting voice. These birds annually migrate from Iran through Pakistan, entering regions such as the coastal areas of Sindh and the plains of Balochistan. With the arrival of spring, they embark on their return journey via the same route.
Unfortunately, due to their beauty and the appeal of their meat, these birds have become targets for hunters, leading to a global decline in their numbers.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 6th, 2023.
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