Hong Kong Government Proposes Amendments To Ban Feeding of Feral Pigeons.

The Hong Kong Government proposes to amend the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance, Cap 170, stipulating that in addition to wild animals, no one shall be permitted to feed feral pigeons.

The Government's paper submitted to the Legislative Council pointed out that illegal feeding of wild animals and wild pigeons not only annoys citizens and threatens public health, but also has adverse effects on wild animals and natural ecology. The authorities propose to increase the maximum penalty stipulated in the current ordinance from a fine of HK$10,000 to a fine of HK$100,000 and one year's imprisonment to strengthen the deterrent effect.

In addition, the Government proposes to introduce a fixed penalty system for illegal feeding of wild animals and wild pigeons, allowing law enforcement officers to immediately issue fixed penalty notices to those who are violating or have violated the prohibition of feeding regulations, with the amount is set at HK$5,000 in the hopes that it would strengthen the fight against illegal feeding.

The Government said that it will provide training for front-line personnel of relevant departments, and at the same time strengthen publicity and education through different channels to enhance citizens' understanding of the new regulations.

Main Source: RTHK