TDS Desk:

The Wildlife Crime Control Unit (WCCU) of the Forest Department on Friday rescued 61 wild birds and two turtles from a weeklybird market in the capital’s Mirpur-1 area.

The rescued birds include 41 ring-neck parrots, three yellow-footed green pigeons, two spotted doves, 10 munias and five common mynas. The rescued birds were later released in Mirpur Botanical Garden.

WCCU has stated that the sale and captivity of birds and other wild animals constitute a punishable offense under the Bangladesh Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act, 2012.

In an effort to combat illegal wildlife trade and raise public awareness, the unit has been conducting regular operations across the country.