Illegal bird trafficking discovered in Marseille: around one hundred specimens seized
A municipal police officer discovered cages hidden beneath a veranda in the 2nd district. Approximately one hundred birds, including 26 goldfinches, were confiscated.
A scooter unit officer puts an end to protected bird trafficking
A routine patrol led to the seizure of around one hundred birds in the Grands-Carmes neighbourhood in Marseille, according to maritima.fr. Last Sunday, a municipal police officer from the Centre scooter unit was alerted by the distinctive song of an elegant goldfinch whilst riding beneath a raised veranda.
Upon looking up, the officer spotted several dozen cages concealed there. The police decided to search the relevant residence. The individual apprehended admitted to keeping numerous specimens.
In total, around one hundred valuable birds were discovered in the flat, including 26 elegant goldfinches. This species is classified as "vulnerable" and benefits from strict protection status in France.
The possession and poaching of these birds expose those responsible to severe sanctions: up to three years' imprisonment and a fine of up to 150,000 euros.
On the advice of the investigating police officer, all the birds were confiscated. They have been handed over to a specialist organisation and will soon be entrusted to qualified keepers authorised to care for them, with a view to providing them with appropriate living conditions, or even preparing their release back into the wild for some.
Source: Google News FR — Crime (fr)