Wild animals still kept at homes in Sharjah

Sharjah — While breeding and keeping wild animals and reptiles at homes or in farms is now banned in Sharjah, official bodies here have received 45 complaints about families still violating the new rule.

Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the Environment and Natural Reserves Authority in Sharjah, said a grace period of one full month was given to keepers of these dangerous animals, but some residents turn a deaf ear to the decision.

“Despite the end of the grace period few day back, we have received 45 complaints about people keeping wild animals at their homes and in their farms so far and those shall be strictly dealt with.”

His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, late last November, issued decision No 15/2014 whereby breeding or possessing wild animals and reptiles at homes and farms is strictly prohibited, she added.

“Violators will face a hefty fine of Dh100,000 and confiscation of the seized wild species which pose a grave risk to society and hamper public interest in the emirate.”

Shaikh Sultan’s decision followed residents’ complaint on the live programme ‘Al Khat Al Mubasher’ being broadcast every day on the Sharjah Radio and Sharjah TV.

Al Suwaidi said a number of wild animal keepers have approached the department to hand over their species in response to the decision which excludes public and private parks, scientific and research centres and universities licensed by the Environment and Natural Reserves Authority in Sharjah.

“Cages with certain specificsw have been prepared for the wild animals which serve as quarantine where they would stay for 40 days for intensive treatment and medical care by a specialised team of vets.”

The animals will then be shifted to local zoos and to zoos abroad where these animals will be safely put under control.

Their owners will no longer have any connection with them, she elaborated.

ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE