The seized falcons - press photo
CAIRO – 10 August 2026: A number of falcons, snakes, and reptiles were seized in Alexandria ahead of their alleged illegal sale, with strict penalties to be imposed on those responsible, the Ministry of Local Development and Environment announced in a statement on Monday.
The seizure was carried out as part of inspection campaigns targeting markets selling endangered wildlife in the Mediterranean city. The campaigns aim to preserve biodiversity and natural resources and were launched in response to citizens’ complaints, the statement said.
The operation is part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to follow up on reports of environmental violations received through its designated communication channels and social media platforms.
Minister of Local Development and Environment Manal Awad said that the Alexandria branch of the Environmental Affairs Agency took the necessary legal measures at the time of the seizure. The confiscated animals and birds were transferred to the Alexandria Zoo to receive care pending a decision by the relevant prosecution authority.
Awad explained that possessing or displaying endangered animals and birds without a license constitutes an environmental crime under Article 28 of Environmental Law No. 4 of 1994 and its amendments.
The article prohibits the hunting, killing, or capture of wild birds and animals whose species are specified in the executive regulations of the law. It also prohibits the possession, transportation, movement, sale, or offering for sale of such animals and birds, whether alive or dead.
The Minister of Local Development and Environment urged citizens to immediately report any environmental violations involving endangered species, including their illegal possession or offering for sale in markets and shops.
Such efforts are essential to preserving biodiversity and natural resources and ensuring the survival of endangered species for future generations.
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