IWMB starts registration of captive birds, animals

Says after March 1, 2024, all unregistered birds will be confiscated

ISLAMABAD:

The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) has started the registration of all captive animals and birds in Islamabad Capital Territory to safeguard animals and birds in the wild. The aim is to ensure that no wildlife species caught are available for sale or possession either online or in the pet shops.

IWMB Spokesman Umar Bilal told APP on Tuesday that the registration process will start with the registration of parrots (parakeets).

"All parrot species endemic to Pakistan or migratory will be registered and provided with identity leg rings by IWMB. Registration and leg ring placement of adult birds will be free till 31 December 2023, followed by registration on payment till 29 February 2024," he said.

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Bilal said that after March 1, 2024, all adult birds without registration would be confiscated and owners would be fined Rs25,000. However, the Parrot chicks will have a closed leg ring placed after the current breeding season, he added. Any parrot Breeders dealing with wild-caught birds after the cutoff date will face a fine of Rs25,000 per bird.

Registration is free until 31st December 2023. From 1st January 2024 to 29th February 2024, owners can obtain rings by paying a registration fee of Rs5,000, and an annual license renewal fee as follows: Rs 5,000 (up to 10 birds), Rs15,000 (up to 40 birds), Rs25,000 (up to 100 birds), and Rs50,000 (above 100 birds). This proactive step by IWMB aims to safeguard wild parrots and ensure their well-being while facilitating responsible ownership within the community. For further information or registration inquiries, please contact the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board. Assistant Director: Sakhawat Ali Cell: 0307-7494112.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, November 8^th, 2023.