Dozens of Protected Animals Seized in Wildlife Trafficking Bust

Jerusalem, 27 May, 2025 (TPS-IL) — Israel Police and the Nature and Parks Authority arrested a resident of the Israeli-Arab town of Barta’a for illegal possession and trade of protected wildlife on Tuesday.

Acting on intelligence, authorities raided the suspect’s property, seizing dozens of birds — including finches, wagtails, and terns — as well as two palm squirrels and a deer antler. The animals were transferred to a wildlife shelter, and the antler to a veterinary facility. Officials described the variety of species as unusual, noting that some are native to Israel and typically caught with nets.