Sharjah: A specialised task force set up by the Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority confiscated 155 birdcall-imitating devices this month, in an effort to combat poaching of endangered species, a spokesperson said on Thursday.
Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority, said 252 birdcall-imitating devices were confiscated in the first quarter of the year. These devices are used illegally to attract birds who are then killed.
“The authority is committed to preserving and protecting the environment in line with the directives of His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. This includes preserving the rich biodiversity found in our national parks and surrounding areas. With this aim, our specialised task forces patrol the area looking for poachers and other illegal activity,” said Al Suwaidi.
Birdcall devices imitate the sounds of birds to entice them to come together in large numbers where hunters have placed traps or where they will be targeted by pump-action rifles. The EPAA has banned the use of such devices used for hunting birds to protect wildlife from poaching and to preserve the natural biodiversity of the area.
The curlew, as an endangered species, has been targeted by poachers with a device that makes a sound to attract them from long distances and make them easy prey.
“The use of such devices adversely affects wildlife and destroys our natural wealth, therefore the authority puts a great deal of effort into combating poaching. This is why a resolution was passed to ban the sale and possession of any device imitating birdcalls of all kinds, in addition to banning the sale and possession of wild or migratory birds,” added Al Suwaidi.
Environment and Protected Areas Authority is diligent in its efforts to combat poaching and also emphasises the importance of preserving wildlife.
