Thousands of Birds Kept in Suffocating Cages by Illegal Traders Rescued near Jama Masjid

In India, about 2,000 birds held captive in suffocating cages by the illegal wildlife trade were rescued.

The birds, including 500 chicks, were discovered jammed into cages and kept in chambers with no ventilation when they were discovered by the Police and the Forest Department in Delhi's Kabutar Market. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India filed a complaint, prompting the raid.

The birds were crowded into cramped cages and housed in rooms with no natural ventilation. Several baby parakeets were discovered dead after being placed on top of each other in little cardboard boxes. Several deceased parakeet chicks were discovered stacked on top of each other in cardboard boxes, according to Wildlife SOS, an animal care organisation.

In a press release, Wasim Akram, deputy director of special projects at Wildlife SOS, said that many of the birds are dehydrated, malnourished, and "under extreme stress."

"It was alarming to learn that the mynas had been dyed with dangerous chemicals in bright colors," Akram remarked.

Under relevant sections of the Wild Life (Protection) Act (WPA), 1972, a FIR has also been filed. Hill mynas are protected under Schedule I of the WPA, while parakeets and munias are protected under Schedule IV.