The Wildlife Crime Control Unit of the Forest Department rescued 25 wild animals from an unauthorised zoo in Lohagara Upazila of Narail on Thursday.
The operation took place around 4 pm at a solitary picnic spot in the upazila.
The raid was led by Rathindra Kumar Biswas, Wildlife and Biodiversity Conservation Officer, with support from Lohagara police.
Among the rescued animals were a nearly 7-foot-long python, a grey fishing cat, 8 black-and-purple kalim birds, 4 ducks of different breeds, 2 white peacocks, 2 black peacocks, 2 macaques with burnt faces and 6 other unidentified animals.
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The Forest Department officials stated that such illegal zoos violate the Wildlife Conservation Act and pose a serious threat to the environment and biodiversity.
“These animals were kept illegally. Legal action will be taken against those involved. Everyone should understand that wild animals belong in forests, where they live beautifully and naturally,” said Rathindra.