Cape Town - NSPCA officials recently rescued a number of exotic birds from being illegally shipped out of the country.
The organisation on Friday said its Special Projects Unit often conducted routine inspections at OR Tambo International Airport to ensure that all animal shipments comply with the Animals Protection Act no 71 of 1962 and IATA Live Animal Regulations.
“Last week, the cargo personnel had come across a shipment of birds that left them with concerns and immediately contacted the NSPCA’s Special Projects Unit for assistance.” the NSPCA said.
Senior Inspector Arno de Klerk found a variety of exotic birds were being shipped but the transport boxes were overstocked and contained compromised birds.
“He immediately ensured that the birds received fresh, potable water and then continued with a full inspection of the shipment.
“Two deceased birds were found in the boxes, as well as indigenous birds that were not listed on the packing list, and there were no permits for the transportation of these birds,” the NSPCA said.
On further investigation, De Klerk found that the birds were being illegally transported.
“The relevant conservation department was contacted to aid in the investigation and assist in the immediate removal of the indigenous birds.
“The NSPCA ensured that the entire shipment was rejected to fly, and that the welfare of all the birds would be prioritised accordingly.”
The NSPCA said it had issued a warning and a criminal case was pending.
Cape Times