Warangal urban: Two rare Purple Swamp Hens were rescued and set free at the Vana Vignan Kendra Zoo Park by forest officials here on Monday. Warangal Rural District forest officer K. Purushotam spotted the two Purple Swamp Hens tied up at one of the stalls in the Kazipet fish market. He explained that capturing, selling or purchasing and consumption of these birds will lead to prosecution.
The birds were in a helpless condition with their legs and beaks tied to a pole. The officials at the Vana Vignana Kendra Zoo Park were called and the birds were shifted there. veterinarian Dr Praveen Kumar treated the birds.
“The birds beaks were tied up with their feathers to prevent biting. These birds can have a better life if they live on their own instead of us taking care of them. They find their own food,” he said.
The Purple Swamp Hen is a very rare bird found only near water bodies which are always full. Their food is fish. They have long legs and sharp nails which enables them to swim and hunt fish.
DFO K. Purushotham said the killing of this rare bird species is punishable according to the provisions of Wildlife Act 1972.
"Local fishermen need to be given proper awareness about preserving rare birds. We will conduct special programmes to make people and children aware about wildlife which is found naturally and not domesticated," he said.
