As the northeast monsoon (Iruvai) brings migratory birds to the Maldives from across the globe, the Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA) has issued a reminder that capturing or keeping these species is strictly illegal.
According to the agency, these seasonal birds are legally protected under Regulation No. 2021/R-25 (Regulation on Naturally or Habitually Protected Flora and Fauna), enacted pursuant to Law No. 4/93 (Maldives Environmental Protection and Preservation Act). Under Article 17 of the regulation, catching, harming, or keeping migratory birds in captivity is strictly prohibited.
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With the vast majority of bird species in the Maldives visiting as seasonal migrants, environmental officials stressed that safeguarding these visitors is essential to preserving the country’s rich ecosystem and avian biodiversity.
Despite these legal protections, the ERA noted that individuals continue to target migratory birds during this season using traps, clipping their wings, locking them in cages, and trading or keeping them as pets.
ERA stressed that such acts violate the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), an international treaty to which the Maldives is a state party, binding the nation to protect migratory wildlife. Furthermore, these illegal activities undermine the ecological benefits these birds bring to the Maldivian environment.
A 2025 study conducted by the authority revealed a concerning decline in the number of migratory birds arriving in the Maldives.
Consequently, authorities urge the public to refrain from targeting migratory birds and to immediately release any currently held in captivity. The ERA emphasised that all citizens must comply with national biodiversity protection laws and regulations.
Individuals caught trapping, keeping, buying, selling, or trading protected bird species will face financial penalties under Regulation No. 2021/R-25 (Regulation on Naturally or Habitually Protected Flora and Fauna).
The ERA has requested anyone with information regarding such illegal activities to report cases promptly by contacting the authority at 3335949 or emailing secretariat@era.gov.mv. Whistleblowers and complainants are urged to provide detailed information to assist in enforcement actions.
When submitting reports or complaints, the authority urges the public to include the following key details:
- Identity of the individual or parties capturing or keeping the birds
- Location where the birds are being kept (house name, island, and atoll)
- Species of the captured birds
- Relevant photo or video evidence
The authority called on all parties to fully cooperate in enforcing the Maldives Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, as well as its underlying regulations and directives concerning protected species.
Additionally, the ERA expressed its gratitude to the public and organisations for their ongoing support and assistance in safeguarding the nation’s natural environment.
The authority noted that the guidelines on managing and protecting protected bird species and their habitats, along with the “Status of Breeding and Migratory Birds in the Maldives 2025” report, are now published on its official website.
