ExplainerHong Kong plans to ban feeding feral pigeons in August. The Post breaks down what you need to know about the legal change
- Authorities say feeding feral pigeons threatens their survival, increases risk of disease and parasite transmission
- Offenders will be subject to maximum fine of HK$100,000 and year in jail
Hong Kong will impose a ban on feeding pigeons from August 1, following the passage of an amendment bill to the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance on Wednesday.
Here, the Post looks at what it is about and how not to fall foul of the law.
1. What is the new ban about?
Feeding wild animals, such as monkeys, boars and tree sparrows, is prohibited citywide under the existing provisions of the ordinance, with offenders liable to a HK$10,000 (US$1,280) fine upon conviction.
But feral pigeons are classified as domestic animals under the common law, thus falling outside the definition of wild animals under the ordinance.
Law enforcement actions against feeding pigeons currently can only be taken under the Public Cleansing and Prevention of Nuisances Regulation and the Fixed Penalty (Public Cleanliness and Obstruction) Ordinance.
The amendment to the ordinance has closed that loophole and increased the maximum penalty.