{
  "id": 8291053,
  "title": "Call for tougher action against illegal bird-calling devices",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/17/call-for-tougher-action-against-illegal-bird-calling-devices",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-17T21:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf Times",
    "slug": "gulf-times",
    "url": "https://www.gulf-times.com/article/733602/qatar/call-for-tougher-action-against-illegal-bird-calling-devices"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Environmentalists and wildlife experts have urged stricter regulations on the import and sale of bird-calling devices, warning that their unlawful use could lead to overhunting and disrupt wildlife patterns. This demand came after the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) seized several prohibited bird-calling devices, known locally as \"sawyat,\" in Al Reem Biosphere Reserve. Environmental groups welcomed this enforcement action, emphasizing the significance of regular inspections and stringent rule enforcement to safeguard wildlife, biodiversity, and natural resources.\n\nQatar's 2026-27 migratory bird hunting season commenced on September 1 and is set to continue until February 15, 2027, according to Ministerial Decision No. 7 of 2026. This decision outlines permitted bird species and hunting methods, while prohibiting devices that mimic bird calls. Dr Youssef al-Kazem, an environmental expert, commended the inspectors' efforts and urged hunters and the public to act responsibly, stating that safeguarding Qatar’s wildlife is a collective responsibility. He also called for stringent measures against illegal hunting and the use of unauthorized equipment, asserting that effective enforcement and deterrence are essential to prevent practices that could jeopardize the ecological balance.\n\nHamad al-Khulaifi, an environmental researcher, described the seizure of the devices as a crucial enforcement measure, noting that such audio technology can concentrate birds in specific areas, potentially intensifying hunting pressure and disrupting their natural movements and seasonal migration. He also suggested that, where technically feasible, audio technology should be restricted to scientific research and authorized purposes rather than being made available for hunting. Hunting enthusiast Khalid al-Abbasi echoed the call for tighter controls on the import and commercial sale of bird-calling devices, advocating for more severe penalties for violations and greater awareness among hunters and enthusiasts of the ecological ramifications of excessive hunting.\n\nThe enforcement action is especially significant in Al Reem Biosphere Reserve, one of Qatar’s major protected areas. Situated in northwestern Qatar approximately 65km west of Doha, the reserve covers roughly 10% of the country’s land area and is renowned for its limestone formations, coastal habitats, meadows, and vegetation. Designated as a protected area in 2005, Qatar's broader conservation network underscores the critical importance of preserving habitats used by wildlife and migratory species. The MoECC's land protection authorities oversee wildlife monitoring, detect unauthorized hunting activities, and enforce environmental regulations within protected and wild areas. Consequently, the calls for stricter controls extend beyond the devices themselves, highlighting the broader necessity to strike a balance between regulated hunting and the preservation of Qatar's wildlife and the habitats supporting migratory species.",
  "summary": "Environmentalists and wildlife experts have called for tighter restrictions on the import and sale of bird-calling devices, warning that their misuse could facilitate excessive hunting and disrupt wi...",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}