The measures have been tightened since September. Now there is a penalty for feeding monkeys and wild boars.
Since September, Hong Kong authorities have begun fining residents and visitors to the city for feeding pigeons and other wild animals. This is reported by the South China Morning Post.
For the first time, the city has fined a person 5,000 Hong Kong dollars (about $640) for feeding pigeons.
Previously, law enforcement officers limited themselves to a verbal warning.
The maximum fine for feeding animals (the list also includes monkeys and wild boars) reaches 100,000 local dollars (about $12,800).
In addition, warning signs have been installed in the metropolis. This is done in order to stop the uncontrolled feeding of birds.
Why are people fined for feeding pigeons
Such fines exist not only in Hong Kong. For example, something similar was introduced in New York back in 2007.
These measures are taken due to the fact that pigeons are quite dangerous creatures, as they carry many diseases. They are often called “feathered rats”.
In addition, in urban conditions, the pigeon population begins to grow rapidly, but there is not enough space for other birds. They cannot withstand the competition and simply die out. And in order to preserve biological diversity in the region, the Hong Kong authorities have taken such measures.
