We are thus happy that there is a sign of awakening on the part of the forest department as reflected by its recent raid on the city's well-known pet shops. Over the years there has been a steady decline in our valuable wildlife population in general, to say nothing of many exotic species that are on the verge of disappearing.

It is high time for our administration to undertake stricter measures in handling this growing menace of poaching of wild birds and animals, beyond the periodic raids that are instituted today. The administration should gear up its awareness campaign not only against poachers, but also towards building awareness amongst the people at large.

As the saying goes: "When the buying stops, selling will too." The administration should consider involving private initiatives and also actively pursue involvement in established networks with such international bodies like the WWF and SPCA. Considerations could be given to partnership networking and exchange of experiences with our neighbouring countries that have the same ecological conditions and similar species of wildlife population.

With immediate effect government should also consider enactment of stricter laws for violators. Mere raids will not help. There should be a total ban on trade of certain species, particularly birds and other kinds of small animals like the mongoose, that are unable to survive except in their traditional wild habitat.

We believe that the government should vigorously pursue the curtailment of poaching and the preservation of our wildlife resources without any further loss of time. Preservation of wildlife birds and animals is crucial to preserving our dwindling heritage.