Hundreds of Frozen Birds Seized in West Bank Raid, Two Arrested

Israeli police and nature authority inspectors raided the homes of two suspects in Umm al-Fahm and the village of Anin, near Jenin, on Monday, uncovering hundreds of frozen blackcap warblers. The birds are considered a protected species in Israel and hunting, possessing, or trading them is illegal. The investigation began after intelligence indicated the suspects were involved in trading thousands of protected birds for significant sums of money.

The blackcap warbler is a migratory bird common in Europe, Asia, and North Africa, passing through Israel in large numbers during migration seasons. While illegal in Israel, the small bird is considered a delicacy in some Mediterranean countries, notably Cyprus, where it is prepared as a dish called "Ambelopoulia." This demand has fueled a black market for the birds, often caught using cruel methods like mist nets and glue sticks, particularly in autumn when they have accumulated fat for migration.

During the search, authorities found hundreds of frozen blackcap warblers, believed to be part of a larger supply chain. One suspect's arrest was extended by the Tiberias Magistrate's Court until Wednesday, while the second suspect was brought for a remand hearing on Tuesday. The seized birds were estimated to be part of a broader illegal trade network.