10th October 2025 – (Hong Kong) Hong Kong Customs officials have intercepted a cache of protected live birds, including ten endangered parrots, at the Lo Wu border crossing. The seizure, which took place on Wednesday, underscores ongoing challenges in the illegal trafficking of species.
The discovery was made when officers stopped a 39-year-old female passenger arriving at the Lo Wu Control Point. Upon inspecting her personal luggage, specifically a carrier bag and a rucksack, officials uncovered a total of 53 live birds. The haul, with an estimated market value of approximately HK$11,000, comprised 43 common live birds and, more critically, ten parrots suspected to be from a protected species.
Officers from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) were promptly summoned to the scene. Following a preliminary inspection, they confirmed that the seized parrots are a scheduled endangered species, listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Their importation is strictly regulated in Hong Kong under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586). The case has now been transferred to the AFCD for a full and thorough investigation.
A spokesperson for Customs reiterated a public reminder, urging travellers to be fully aware of and compliant with regulations concerning controlled items, emphasising that such rules apply to both entering and leaving Hong Kong.
The incident highlights the severe legal consequences for wildlife smuggling. Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, individuals found guilty of illegally importing, exporting, or possessing endangered species can face draconian penalties, including a maximum fine of HK$10 million and up to ten years imprisonment, with the specimens being forfeited.
Furthermore, importing any bird without a valid health certificate is an offence under the Public Health (Animals and Birds) Ordinance (Cap. 139), carrying a maximum penalty of a HK$25,000 fine and confiscation of the birds.
