Illegally Kept Eurasian lynx and Red-Listed Birds Transferred to Yerevan Zoo

Ahead of the COP 17 conference, the Environmental Protection and Mining Inspection Body of the Republic of Armenia continues its consistent efforts to ensure proper care and legal compliance for wild animals held in captivity, supporting biodiversity conservation and sustainable environmental development.

On February 3, 2026, staff of the Inspection Body and the “Yerevan Zoo” SNCO confiscated 7 wild animals from the “Hrashq Aygi” restaurant complex in Ararat Province due to the lack of proper permits. The animals included Red-Listed species of Armenia:

• 1 Eurasian lynx
• 2 Bald eagles (Red List)
• 2 Demoiselle cranes (Red List)
• 1 Alexandrine parakeet
• 1 Ring-necked parakeet

The animals were transferred to the Yerevan Zoo, where they will undergo medical examination and receive professional care.

The Inspection Body urges individuals and legal entities to refrain from illegally keeping wild animals. Keeping wild animals in captivity or semi-captivity is permitted only with the relevant authorization from the competent authorities.