Campaign Launched to End Pelican Captivity Along Ain Sokhna Road

The Ministry of Environment has launched a campaign targeting the illegal capture and display of wild pelicans along Ain Sokhna Road, particularly outside seafood restaurants and fish shops. Two pelicans were recently confiscated and transferred to the Ashtoum El Gamil Reserve near Port Said, where they will be released back into the wild.

Pelicans—migratory birds that pass through Egypt in spring and autumn—are often found chained outside roadside eateries despite existing wildlife protection laws.

Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development and Acting Minister of Environment, stated that acquiring or exhibiting wild birds without a licence is a criminal offence. The Ministry is urging the public to report any violations involving endangered or protected species so authorities can intervene promptly.