Poaching Threatens Wildlife in Salah al-Din’s Balad District

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Poaching and the loss of breeding and living areas to human activity have contributed to a marked decline in wildlife in Balad district, Salah al-Din province, district governor Haydar al-Beldavi said. He identified the shrinking habitats as a major factor behind falling numbers of birds and other wild animals. Al-Beldavi said illegal hunting is harming biodiversity, with some bird species targeted by hunters. He also said the Iraqi bulbul, known in Iraq as the Iraqi nightingale, is being sold within Iraq and abroad. Authorities are directing security agencies to prevent poaching, increase inspections during breeding periods and take legal action against violators, according to al-Beldavi. The governor said the areas of Harbe, Hadira, Azir Balad, Ferhatiya, Sayyid Garib and Mahatta serve as resting and feeding grounds for migratory birds and could receive stronger protection.