KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) is reminding the public that all wild ducks in Jamaica are protected under the Wild Life Protection Act and must not be hunted, trapped or harmed.

The agency gave the warning in a news release on Monday.

Noting credible reports of individuals hunting and trapping wild ducks across several parishes, NEPA said these activities are in direct breach of the Wild Life Protection Act, which protects all native birds in Jamaica, including every species of resident and migratory ducks.

It noted that resident species, such as the West Indian Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna arborea), live and breed in Jamaica year-round, while migratory species, including the Blue-winged Teal (Spatula discors) and the Ring-necked Duck (Aythya collaris), travel to the island seasonally.

According to NEPA, Jamaica’s wetlands and inland waterways provide critical habitats for these species and support regional and hemispheric biodiversity. It said illegal hunting threatens these ecosystems and the wildlife that depend on them.

The environmental body said it is actively investigating these reports and warned that individuals convicted of hunting, trapping or possessing protected wildlife, including wild ducks, may face fines of up to $3,000,000.

NEPA is encouraging the public to play an active role in protecting Jamaica’s natural resources by reporting illegal hunting. Members of the public with information are encouraged to contact NEPA at 876-754-7540 or toll-free at 888-991-5005. Individuals may also contact 119 or the nearest police station.