The Jakarta Post, Jakarta | Tue, 02/09/2010 4:43 PM
Jakarta's Pramuka bird market in East Jakarta, notorious for selling endangered native Indonesian birds, now boasts imported birds.
A white peacock, which is living in a cage 50 cm high, 75 cm long and 70 cm wide, can fetch a price of Rp 20 million (US$2,120). An African grey parrot that can cost up to Rp 7 million is also on display.
The market has been a haven for smuggled native birds for years, including the Bali Starling and various types of pheasant.
"The Forestry Ministry has never inspected Pramuka bird market," said Tri Prayudhi, a wildlife campaign officer from ProFauna.
However, a forestry official said the ministry conducted regular inspections of the market.
“We will find out if there is any indication of endangered species trading,” said the forestry protection director, who preferred to remain anonymous.
Tri said Indonesia had prohibited the import and export of birds after the breakout of bird flu in 2006. However, according to ProFauna’s investigation, 159 endangered species were still being traded in most cities in Java in 2009.
The 1990 law on ecosystems and natural resources conservation stipulates that anyone who trades or keeps live endangered species risks a maximum five years in prison and Rp 100 million ($10,700) in fines. (rch)
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