Injured Pangolin Found in Tai Po Sent to Farm for Treatment; Traps Cleared by Fish and Aquatic Chest

In Tai Po, Yuen Ling Village, a report of an injured pangolin was received recently. The Fish and Aquatic Chest (FAC) responded promptly and transported the pangolin to the JD Farrar Nature Farm for examination. The FAC suspect the injury may have been caused by a trap and subsequently cleared one iron cage trap and a common trap known as the 'mountain pig scissors' in the area. FAC staff also hung warning signs to alert the public that the unauthorized use or possession of traps is illegal under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170).

Last month, residents in Yuan Ling Village in Tai Po reported a badly injured potbelly pig, leading the Fisheries and Aquaculture Department to assist in the rescue. The injured potbelly pig was found near the village hall in a nearby water channel and was taken to the Jardine Johnston Farm for examination. Subsequent searches of the area revealed and cleared a trap made of wire and a device known as a "mountain pig snare." Department personnel also hung warning signs to alert the public that using or possessing such traps without permission is a violation of the Wildlife Protection Ordinance. The department emphasizes that they have conducted over 400 inspection rounds so far this year, including nine joint operations with other departments and organizations, and have seized over 60 traps. Efforts will continue to strengthen surveillance, particularly in areas where traps have been previously found or where illegal hunting might be suspected. According to the Wildlife Protection Ordinance, anyone found in possession of hunting tools such as snares or traps without authorization, or using them to hunt wild animals, can be fined up to HKD 50,000 upon conviction. The department encourages the public to report any suspected illegal hunting activities or traps by contacting 1823.

The case of the injured potbelly pig in Tai Po is part of a broader effort by the Fisheries and Aquaculture Department to curb the use of illegal traps in the region. The department has been actively undertaking over 400 inspection tours since the beginning of this year, targeting areas previously exposed to illegal hunting. As part of their ongoing operations, they have confiscated multiple traps and have strengthened public awareness with warning signs. The stringent laws against the use of hunting tools underscore the authorities' commitment to the protection of wildlife, aiming to reduce injuries and deaths of wildlife caused by careless or malicious acts. Public cooperation remains crucial in this effort, and authorities are making it easier for citizens to report any discrepancies or potential threats.