The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) is warning members of the public to be on the look out for persons selling, trading, hunting and killing endangered species.

Agents and officers of NEPA, with the assistance of the Island Special Constabulary Force, will be monitoring pet shops, market places and general shopping areas. Members of the public who are found with any protected species in their possession or are guilty of hurting and hunting (killing, capturing or willful molesting) may be charged with a maximum fine of $100,000 or one year imprisonment.

The Jamaican Boa, Jamaican Coney, Giant Swallowtail Butterfly, the Jamaican Iguana, Sea Turtles, American Crocodile, West Indian Manatee and the Yellow and Black Billed Parrots are protected under the Wild Life Protection Act sections 6, 8 and 12.

Please report any such illegal activities to the National Environment and Planning Agency at 754-7540 or 1-888-991-5005. You may also call 119 or the nearest police station.