Shocking reports reveal that taxidermied falcons, eagles, and other birds of prey are being openly sold at tuck-shops along Punjab’s motorways — a practice that has raised red flags among conservationists.
According to experts, these raptor species are protected under provincial wildlife laws, making their collection, sale, or display — live or dead — unlawful. What’s more troubling: taxidermy is only possible if the animals were killed first. This suggests that rare birds are being hunted and traded illicitly, contributing to a rapid decline in their populations.
One specialist, associated with raptor conservation, warned that removing birds of prey from the environment disrupts ecological balance — these raptors help keep populations of rodents, snakes, and other species in check.
Conservation bodies are now demanding an immediate inquiry by relevant authorities — including wildlife-protection agencies — to trace the source of these specimens, identify those responsible, seize the stuffed birds, and launch legal proceedings against the offenders.
Given prior enforcement efforts by the Punjab Wildlife Department, which recently arrested multiple individuals in crackdowns on illegal hunting and trade of falcons and quails.