The Wildlife Crime Control Unit of the Forest Department rescued 25 wild animals from an illegal zoo operating at a secluded picnic spot in Lohagara Upazila, Narail, on Thursday afternoon.
The operation, which began around 4 pm, was led by Rathindra Kumar Biswas, Wildlife and Biodiversity Conservation Officer, with assistance from Lohagara police.
Among the rescued animals were a 7-foot-long python, a grey fishing cat, eight black-and-purple kalim birds, four ducks of various breeds, two white peacocks, two black peacocks, two macaques with burn injuries on their faces, and six other unidentified species.
Officials said the animals had been kept illegally, in violation of the Wildlife Conservation Act, and warned that such activities pose serious threats to the environment and biodiversity.
“These animals were held unlawfully, and legal action will be taken against those responsible,” said Rathindra Kumar Biswas. “It is important for everyone to understand that wild animals belong in their natural habitats, where they can live freely and thrive.”
