The Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA) has warned that capturing, keeping at home and trading protected migratory birds that arrive in the Maldives from different parts of the world during the northeast monsoon is prohibited, and that legal action will be taken against those involved in such activities.
The ERA stated that migratory birds that arrive in the Maldives during the northeast monsoon are protected under the regulations on the protection and conservation of the environment, as well as the regulations on the protection and conservation of living species. The authority said capturing, trapping or keeping any of these bird species in cages is prohibited under Article 17 of the relevant regulations.
The ERA said it has recently observed an increase in the capture of birds, with some being kept and traded as pets. The authority said such activities are also contrary to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), an international convention to which the Maldives is a party.
Since 2021, a total of 207 bird species have been protected in the Maldives. An ERA study conducted in 2025 found that the number of migratory birds arriving in the Maldives was declining, which the authority described as a major threat to the country’s environment and biodiversity.
The ERA has therefore urged the public to refrain from such activities and to immediately release any birds that have been captured. The authority also warned that those who capture, keep or sell birds in violation of the regulations could face substantial fines.
The ERA has requested that anyone with information about individuals keeping birds in violation of the regulations report the matter by providing the person’s details, the name of the house where the bird is being kept, the island and atoll, the bird species, and supporting evidence such as photographs or videos.
Reports can be submitted to the ERA on 3335949 or by email at [email protected]