Customs seizes endangered parrots worth $11,000 at Lo Wu Control Point

Hong Kong Customs officers intercepted a traveler attempting to smuggle endangered parrots and other live birds through the Lo Wu Control Point on Thursday, uncovering a haul valued at approximately HK$11,000.

The incident occurred when officers stopped a 39-year-old woman in the Arrival Hall and inspected her belongings. 

Inside her carrier bag and rucksack, they discovered 10 live parrots suspected to be endangered species, along with 43 other live birds. 

Experts from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department were called to the scene and confirmed that the parrots are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, as well as Hong Kong’s Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance. The case has been handed over to the department for further investigation.

Authorities emphasized the strict regulations governing the import and export of protected species. 

Violators face severe penalties, including fines up to HK$10 million and imprisonment for up to 10 years, with confiscated animals forfeited. 

Additionally, bringing birds into Hong Kong without a valid health certificate violates public health regulations, carrying a potential fine of $25,000 and seizure of the birds.