In this May 25, 2017 photo, pigeons walk on the slope in Central district, Hong Kong. (PHOTO / AP)

HONG KONG – The Hong Kong government on Friday published a gazette notification on the Wild Animals Protection (Amendment) Bill 2023, which proposes expansion of the scope of the feeding ban and a tenfold increase in the maximum penalty for illegal feeding.

In addition to the current feeding ban on wild animals, the amendment bill proposes to expand the scope of the feeding ban to cover feral pigeons. 

It also proposes increasing the maximum penalty for illegal feeding from a fine of HK$10,000 to HK$100,000 and imprisonment for one year and introducing a fixed penalty system for illegal feeding with the amount set at HK$5,000. 

READ MORE: Stricter regulations sought to protect exotic animals in HK

The amendment bill will be introduced into the Legislative Council for its first reading on Nov 29. Subject to their passage, the relevant legislative amendments will take effect on Aug 1, 2024, according to a government notification.

"Feeding of wild animals and feral pigeons will affect their ability to forage and survive on their own in the wild, and constitute public hygiene and other issues,” said a spokesman for the Environment and Ecology Bureau.

ALSO READ: Call of the rescue brigade

In addition, the amendment bill proposes to broaden the scope of enforcement officers of the government to strengthen enforcement.

“The amendment bill seeks to enhance the deterrent effect in combating illegal feeding activities, enhance the protection of wild animals, as well as safeguard environmental hygiene,” the spokesman said.