Le Figaro Marseille
Seven goldfinches were seized in Marseille as part of an investigation into trafficking in these birds, which is very active around the Mediterranean, announced the French Biodiversity Office (OFB) in a press release.
Last month, during an operation led by the French biodiversity office and the southern division of Marseille, two men were arrested in the city's 11th arrondissement trying to capture birds on a "
fairly elaborate" site.
»
according to the press release, composed of
“water point, food, perches and set nets”
.
Also read: International trafficking in goldfinches dismantled in the Paris region
Prized for their melodious song
“Several caged birds are used as decoys to attract their peers
,” the text specifies.
The homes of these two men were searched.
“In total, seven goldfinches were seized and placed in an authorized and suitable structure,”
explain the environmental police
.
Goldfinches were captured to be sold illegally.
At the end of police custody, the two defendants were summoned to the criminal court.”
These birds, sold in particular illicitly on the Marseille flea market, are prized for their beauty and their melodious song.
The species is however protected, its nesting population having decreased by 35% in 18 years.
“In the Maghreb, their population has decreased significantly, causing a postponement of sampling in the south of France in particular
,” specifies the text.