Selling Endangered Species Is Illegal, Says NEPA

December 16, 2013

The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) is warning members of the public who may be seeking to purchase pets as gifts for the Christmas season to be careful not to buy protected species.

These protected animals or protected birds include the Yellow-billed Parrot, the Black-billed Parrot and the Jamaican Boa (Yellow Snake).

Members of the public are reminded that it is an offence under the under the Wild Life Protection Act if they are found with any protected animals or protected birds in their possession or are found hunting (killing, capturing or willful molesting) any protected animals or protected birds.

If found guilty of the offence they may be charged a maximum fine of $100,000 or one year imprisonment.

NEPA urges members of the public to report any such illegal activities at 754-7540 or 1-888-991-5005. Persons may also call 119 or make a report to the nearest police station.