LAHORE: The Punjab government has introduced a new law to regulate the ownership and trade of pet parrots in a bid to protect rare species and clamp down on illegal sales.
Under the legislation, Alexandrine, Rose-ringed, Slaty-headed and Plum-headed parrots have been added to the second schedule of protected birds. Owners must register each bird for a fee of Rs1,000.
Parrots can now only be bought or sold through registered and licensed dealers.
Breeders will be classified into two categories: small breeders, who keep and breed a limited number of parrots, and large breeders, who engage in commercial breeding and trading.
Wildlife Department officials said the law aims to safeguard rare and local parrot species, prevent smuggling, and bring breeding practices into a legal framework.
They warned that the regulation takes effect immediately and violators will face legal action.
