Ahmedabad: Forest department officials recovered 38 migratory birds from three houses in Dharji village near Nalsarovar during a raid conducted on Thursday. Officials said the seizure is believed to be among the largest recoveries of illegally kept birds from residential premises in the region.

According to Sakkira Begum, Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, Wildlife Division, Sanand, the raid was carried out by Range Forest Officer Deepak Solanki and his team following a specific tip-off.

During the operation, officials found several birds being kept with their wings tied. The house owners fled the spot upon the arrival of the forest team. From the three houses, officials seized a total of 38 hunted birds of various species, along with materials used for hunting, including a bird-trapping net, a reel of Chinese thread, and kites, which were taken as offence material.

Out of the 38 birds, one was found dead at the time of seizure. The forest department sealed all three houses in the presence of the village sarpanch and initiated legal proceedings under the relevant wildlife protection laws.

The rescued birds were sent for medical treatment to the Wildlife Care Centre in the Bodakdev area of Ahmedabad city. However, during transit—before treatment could begin—another ten birds died. Currently, 27 birds are undergoing treatment, officials said.

Officials confirmed that while one bird was found dead at the spot, 37 were rescued alive. The accused are presently absconding, and efforts are underway to trace and apprehend them. Those identified include Ramesh Padhar and his wife Dharmi Padhar, Suresh Padhar, and Vala Padhar, with Suresh and Vala being brothers. DeshGujarat