Government announces immediate enforcement against illegal feeding of wild animals or feral pigeons starts tomorrow (with photo)
**********************************************************************************
The Amendment Ordinance expands the territory-wide prohibition on feeding wild animals to cover feral pigeons, increases the maximum penalty for illegal feeding to a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for one year, and introduces a fixed penalty of $5,000 for illegal feeding, with a view to further curbing illegal feeding activities.
The AFCD, in collaboration with the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and the Housing Department, has stepped up patrols throughout Hong Kong, especially at locations with previous records of illegal feeding activities, and takes appropriate enforcement action as necessary based on intelligence and reports.
Furthermore, the AFCD has established an inter-departmental working group on feeding ban enforcement with relevant departments. The working group regularly reviews and discusses enforcement action against illegal feeding and arranges joint enforcement operations when necessary. Members of the public may call 1823 to report any suspected illegal feeding of wild animals or feral pigeons.
Concurrently, the AFCD has launched a series of publicity and education activities with the theme of "All For No Feeding", which includes setting up educational booths in various districts, distributing leaflets, and collaborating with Legislative Council Members, District Council members, and local communities to promote the message. These efforts aim to bring home to the public the negative impact of feeding wild animals and feral pigeons, while publicising the latest feeding ban and penalties. Relevant information has also been uploaded to the AFCD webpage (www.afcd.gov.hk/english/conservation/con_fau/con_fau_wild_the.html).
Ends/Saturday, August 31, 2024
Issued at HKT 12:00
Issued at HKT 12:00
NNNN