The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) has launched a registration drive to safeguard captive animals and birds in the Islamabad Capital Territory. According to media reports, the initiative aims to protect wild species by ensuring that no captured wildlife is available for sale or possession, either online or in pet shops. The registration process will begin with parrots, including both endemic and migratory species. IWMB will provide identity leg rings to all registered parrots. Registration and leg ring placement for adult birds will be free until December 31, 2023, followed by registration on payment till February 29, 2024.

After March 1, 2024, all unregistered adult parrots will be confiscated, and owners will face a fine of Rs 25,000. Parrot chicks will have closed leg rings placed after the current breeding season. Parrot breeders dealing with wild-caught birds after the cutoff date will face a fine of Rs 25,000 per bird. Registration is free until December 31, 2023. From January 1, 2024, to February 29, 2024, owners can obtain rings by paying a registration fee of Rs 5,000 and an annual license renewal fee would be Rs 5,000 (up to 10 birds), Rs 15,000 (up to 40 birds), Rs 25,000 (up to 100 birds), Rs 50,000 (above 100 birds).

This proactive step by IWMB aims to protect wild parrots and ensure their well-being while facilitating responsible ownership within the community. Islamabad Wildlife Management Board has provided Cell: 0307-7494112 for further detail.

 
Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)