800 live munia birds rescued from poachers

Nagpur: In a major action, the Nagpur division forest officials on Sunday evening arrested three poachers from Juni Mangalwari and seized 800 live munia birds being trafficked for consumption.
Munias are small gregarious birds that feed mainly on seeds, usually in relatively open habitats, preferring to feed on the ground or on reeds and grasses. These birds are listed under Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (WPA).
Assistant conservator of forests (ACF) Narendra Chandewar said, “Acting on a tip-off, a trap was laid for the accused near Mathni village near Mouda under Ramtek forest range. When countered, the accused sped the scooter but were trapped near toll plaza on Bhandara Road.”
“During a search, 800 live birds crammed in a gunny sack and being brought from Bhandara were seized. The birds were being transported to be sold for meat. As winter sets in, poachers become active and net these birds and sell to specific customers and eateries,” said Chandewar.
The main accused has been identified as Yashwant Deorao Dayre (40), Juni Mangalwari. The scooter used in the crime has been seized and the trio has been booked under various sections of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
“All accused seem to be habitual poachers and more people are likely to be arrested,” said Chandewar.
If convicted, there is a provision of Rs25,000 fine and six months in jail. A large number of munias are killed in winter when these tiny birds venture into farms in search of seeds and grains. Fishermen and poachers trap these birds in the thousands to meet the heavy demand from meat-eaters in the city.
“The birds are caught by laying nets and traps in farms and forest areas. Petty vendors from the city buy them in bulk for around Rs5 a piece and sell for around Rs30 per piece after frying.