Prince Edward Island residents convicted for hunting violations

SUMMERSIDE, P.E.I. -- February 16, 2012 -- Environment Canada’s Enforcement Branch investigation into the illegal sale of migratory birds has resulted in a conviction and fine for another Prince Edward Island resident.

Donna Chappell, of Spring Valley, was fined $500 for violations under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994, after pleading guilty to one count of selling geese and ducks on Prince Edward Island. The fine reflects the money that was gained through her illegal activity of selling migratory birds. She was also ordered to consult with Environment Canada prior to conducting any business related to migratory birds.

On December 22^nd, Corey Marchbank, of Miscouche, was fined $4,000 after pleading guilty to three counts of selling geese and ducks on Prince Edward Island. He was also prohibited for two years from hunting migratory birds, or from being in the company of anyone hunting migratory birds.

It is illegal to sell, offer for sale, buy or trade a migratory bird protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994. Environment Canada enforces federal wildlife legislation that protects plant and animal species throughout Canada. This is done in collaboration with other federal departments, provincial and territorial governments as well as international agencies and organizations.

Over the past several years, Environment Canada has been receiving and investigating an increased number of complaints of alleged offences involving the sale of wildlife and wildlife parts. This case is just one of several ongoing investigations into the commercialization of wildlife.

In Atlantic Canada there has been an increase in the sale of wildlife for profit. Recent examples include the sale of murres in Newfoundland and Labrador and the sale of ducks and geese in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.

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