The Wildlife Division of the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) recently rescued and confiscated a live crowned eagle from the possession of two men while attempting to trade it, an FDA release has said.

The exercise is part of the FDA’s novel efforts to leave no stone unturned consistent with enforcing the rules and regulations sanctioned by the Wildlife Law that seeks to protect habitats of endangered species in the country.

According to the release, a ranger assigned at the Saw Mill checkpoint in Bomi County effected the rescue mission of the bird and took it to the regional forester, Ruth Varney.

Shortly after informing Edward Gbeintor, FDA wildlife manager, Varney took delivery of the animal, but later deposited it in the LIBASSA sanctuary, Ecolodge, in Marshall, where it remained for ten days under intensive care until it was released back into the forest from where it was captured.

Going by tradition, it can be safely assumed that the bird may be narrating a story of redemption to its family after being held hostage by men for days. The bird may also be celebrating and telling its family that among men, there are angels who care not only for their own kind, but for those of the animal kingdom.

Mr. Gbeinto challenged all other rangers assigned at checkpoints and other strategic places to continue such exercise until the habit of hunting and smuggling endangered species in the country is narrowed, if not totally eradicated.

Gbeintor commended FDA managing director (MD) C. Mike Doryen for empowering the wildlife division in a personal way to effectively uphold the law that protects endangered species.

He added, “It is unacceptable for people to just take pleasure in hunting endangered animals, even their infants, for market purposes.”

Gbeintor described such attitudes as totally absurd; something he said is mostly done out of ignorance of the law.

He then expressed satisfaction that the new management team has vested keen interest in the maximum protection of the forests and the endangered species that reside in them.

It can be recalled that in 2013, an MOU was signed between FDA, SCNL and LIBASSA to transfer all animals confiscated by FDA to that sanctuary for proper care, medical attention and safekeeping until they are healthy enough to be released to their original homes-the forests.

Before being released, the animals serve as exhibits where parents would take their kids for exposure to bush animals/wildlife.

The sanctuary also serves as a learning center specifically for scientific research purposes for science students.

Before the Liberian crises, FDA had an orphanage, but it was destroyed and the animals killed.

Recently, while meeting FDA collaborating partners, MD Doryen noted that his administration will ensure maximum protection of the forests at all times consistent with the Wildlife Law.