ABU DHABI // The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi has warned the public against taking eggs from and destroying nests of Socotra cormorants and terns.
Offenders are liable to legal actions, said Dr Salem Javed, acting director of the land biodiversity sector at the EAAD, reported Aletihad, the Arabic-language sister publication of The National.
A number of people have been seen approaching the nests of Socotra cormorants and terns, causing the birds to fly away and leave their eggs exposed to sunlight, which damages the eggs.
Under Article 12 of Federal Law No 24 of 1999, whoever hunts, kills, catches or destroys the nests or eggs of land and marine birds can face imprisonment and/or a fine ranging between Dh2,000 and Dh20,000.
Dr Javed urged the public to report any offences to the EAAD by calling 800555.
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