Leave the Flamingos Alone!

Sightings of Flamingos in mangroves and by the beach on some islands in the Maldives has hit the headlines, but not in the most admirable way. News of the migratory birds being caught illegally and put up for sale, an action strictly prohibited by law, has sparked Environment Protection Authority to remind of the penalties for those harming protected birds in the Maldives.  

Flamingos sighted in Kulhudhuffushi mangrove - Photo Kulhudhuffushi City Council on Twitter
 
In this season of migration for birds, many unique birds can be spotted seeking refuge within the naturally diverse tropical islands of the Maldives. Since the sighting of flamingos is rare, it has captured the attention of many. Any action taken to harm the birds, including capture, is against the law so if you are one of the few lucky islanders to witness this sight in person, make sure to do nothing else but watch.  
 
EPA issued in a statement that penalties for harming migratory birds can span from acquiring a fine to imprisonment. The authority also advises the public to report of any misconduct regarding protected species in the Maldives to its emergency hotline number 7980379 with details (pictures, details of the unlawful, details of the animal being harmed) or via email to erc@epa.gov.mv