Punjab imposes Rs1,000 registration fee for parrot owners

LAHORE: The provincial government of Punjab has introduced a new law to regulate the breeding and trade of pet parrots, a move aimed at curbing illegal sales and ensuring the protection of some exotic birds such as the Alexandrine parakeet.

Under the new legislation, Alexandrine, Rose-ringed, Grey-headed, and Plum-headed parrots will now come under the registration system and have been included in the Second Schedule. According to the regulation, a registration fee of Rs 1,000 will be required for each parrot.

Parrot owners are now required to register as licensed breeders or dealers, and parrots can only be bought or sold through registered, licensed dealers. Breeders have been classified into two categories: first, small breeders, who breed and raise a limited number of parrots, then large breeders, who engage in commercial breeding and buying and selling.

Wildlife department officials explained that the law aims to protect rare and endemic parrot species, curb illegal smuggling and trade, and bring parrot breeding within a legal framework.

Officials also warned that the law is effective immediately and anyone found violating its provisions will face legal action.

The move is being hailed as a significant step towards wildlife conservation in the province and is expected to promote responsible pet ownership while protecting endangered parrot species.