These few days the Society received several reports of birds injured by animal traps, and suspects these traps were set in the fishponds or wetlands in the Deep Bay area, injuring birds passing by. Two Black-faced Spoonbills got their beak or leg caught in the trap (Figure 1). An Eastern Imperial Eagle caught a duck which is suspected to be injured by a trap (Figure 2).
The Society is greatly concerned about these incidents and condemns these harmful behaviors. If any birdwatchers or members spot these injured spoonbills, please report the discovery time and location/flight direction to the Society, such that Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department AFCD or corresponding organizations can rescue the bird at the appropriate time.
Please note, according to the Wild Animals and Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170), no person shall hunt, injure or wilfully disturb any wild birds, or possess any hunting device or make a pitfall for trapping wild birds unless a special permit is obtained. Any person who contravenes the regulations of the Ordinance shall be liable on conviction to a maximum fine of HK$100,000 and to imprisonment for 1 year.
If you see someone setting animal traps or animals/birds injured by traps, under safe condition, please record the situation at the site, the exact location and time, and then contact the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department as soon as possible. Please also report the incident to the Society as well.
* AFCD: 1823 Government Hotline
* HKBWS: 2377 4387 (email: hkbws@hkbws.org.hk)
* Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA): 24 Hours Emergency Hotline 2711 1000
* Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden (KFBG) Wild Animal Rescue Centre: 2483 7200 (You need to transfer the injured bird(s) to KFBG by yourself.
* If you come across these cases at Mai Po, please contact WWF staff at the Mai Po Office 24716212 (Office hour 08:30-17:30 Mon-Sun).