Stuffed falcons and eagles sold on motorways alarm conservationists

Experts warn protected raptors are being killed for trade as calls grow for an urgent inquiry and crackdown

Conservationists have expressed deep concern over the sale of taxidermied falcons, eagles, and other birds of prey at several tuck shops located along Punjab’s motorways. Experts say these species are protected under provincial wildlife laws, and many are already facing the threat of local extinction. Despite this legal protection, their display and sale continue openly at government-regulated service areas.

“Taxidermy is only possible once an animal has died, which indicates that rare birds of prey are being deliberately killed and traded,” said Dr. Kamran Abid, a falconer and raptor conservation specialist affiliated with the Punjab Hawking Club. He noted that this alleged practice is not only contributing to a significant decline in wildlife but is also destabilizing the ecological balance. “Birds of prey play a critical role in regulating populations of rodents, snakes, and other species, and their removal disrupts entire ecosystems.”

Dr Abid has called upon the Chief Minister of Punjab, Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, and the Punjab Wildlife Rangers to launch an immediate inquiry into the source of these stuffed birds and investigate how such trade is taking place openly at motorway service areas. According to relevant circles, the situation not only constitutes a violation of law but also points to serious negligence on the part of responsible institutions.

Read: Urbanisation is a 'bird-en' that Karachi can not sustain much longer

Urging prompt action, conservationists have demanded an emergency operation to seize all taxidermied raptors from shops on the motorways, along with a high-level investigation to identify suppliers and individuals involved in illegal hunting. They further called for strict legal action against shopkeepers and all those responsible for this trade.

Punjab Wildlife authorities state that just as a licence is required to keep live wild animals and birds, a licence is also mandatory for the sale and purchase of taxidermied wildlife.

Shopkeepers are additionally required to maintain records showing where and from whom the taxidermied specimen was acquired. Officials maintain that enforcement actions are under way against those involved in illegal wildlife trade.