Environmentalists in Canacona taluka have raised an alarm over the alleged poaching of endangered Indian bullfrogs, as the first monsoon showers coaxed the amphibians out of hibernation. Activists claim that poachers catch frogs in remote areas and sell them in Margao and other locations. The frogs are reportedly traded under the code name 'jumping chicken,' with the meat promoted as a delicacy and served by some restaurants in tourism hubs.
Night Patrols and Discoveries
In one instance, activists patrolling at night discovered 25 bullfrogs stuffed into a jute bag at an isolated spot. They released the frogs into a large well, believing poachers fled fearing the arrival of forest department staff. Range forest officer Anand Velip stated that the department conducts night patrols in suspected pockets during the season to prevent frog catching. He denied that poaching was taking place in Canacona and said beat guards were deployed in vulnerable areas. While acknowledging some remote locations might be difficult to access, he asserted that staffing was adequate and monsoon patrolling was intensified. Forest officials noted that no cases have been registered so far.
Legal Framework and Warnings
Hunting, selling, and consuming frogs has been prohibited under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The forest department issued monsoon-time warnings that catching, killing, selling, or eating frog meat is a punishable offence, attracting imprisonment of up to three months and fines up to nearly Rs 1 lakh. Restaurants and individuals were also cautioned against stocking or serving frog meat.
Cross-Border Smuggling Suspected
With increased awareness making it harder to hunt in populated areas, activists suspect smuggling from the neighbouring state of Karnataka. In June 2024, forest officials intercepted a private bus near Kali bridge in Karwar and seized 42 Indian bullfrogs hidden in a bag, arresting the driver and conductor. This incident highlights the ongoing threat to the species and the need for continued vigilance.
