Migratory birds kept in captivity despite warnings from environmental authority
On 1 October, the ERA reminded the public that capturing, keeping or harming migratory birds is prohibited under environmental regulations.
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Videos circulating on social media show migratory birds being kept in captivity in the Maldives, despite warnings from the Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA) against capturing and harming birds visiting the country during the migration season.
The Maldives is currently experiencing its annual migratory bird season, during which several species arrive in the country.
On 1 October, the ERA reminded the public that capturing, keeping or harming migratory birds is prohibited under environmental regulations.
However, videos circulating on social media platforms, including TikTok, show birds being kept in residential compounds, with some having their wings clipped to prevent them from flying.
One video shows several birds, including species locally known as bulhithunbi and raabondhi, being kept in a household compound. The footage shows that their wings have been clipped.
Another video shows a number of birds being kept in a residential compound, including species protected under Maldivian regulations.
Migratory birds visit the Maldives in considerable numbers during this period and the northeast monsoon season each year.
Maldivian laws and regulations provide protection for these birds, prohibiting their capture and possession.
Fines for capturing migratory birds
Under the Regulation on Imposing Fines and Seeking Compensation for Environmental Damage, penalties for capturing migratory birds include:
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MVR 20,000 for capturing one bird.
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MVR 25,000 for each additional bird.
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An additional MVR 10,000 for each bird belonging to a protected species.
Under the Regulation on the Protection and Conservation of Species, harming a protected species can result in a fine ranging from MVR 30,000 to MVR 50,000.
The ERA has previously expressed concern that migratory birds, which contribute to the Maldives' biodiversity and ecosystems, are being captured using traps and subsequently sold.
The authority has urged the public to report incidents involving the capture, confinement, mistreatment or trade of migratory birds.
How to report violations
Members of the public can report suspected violations to the ERA by calling 3335949 or emailing [email protected].
The authority has requested that reports include information identifying the individuals involved, the location where the birds are being captured or kept, and the species concerned.
Where available, photographs and videos documenting the incident should also be submitted.
Location details should include the house name, island and atoll to help authorities identify the premises.
The ERA has urged members of the public to report such activities without delay to support enforcement of wildlife protection regulations.
Authorities have previously imposed substantial fines on individuals found capturing migratory birds in the Maldives.
