A rare long-eared owl was seized from a street photographer in Peterburg.

In St. Petersburg, a rare long-eared owl was taken from a photographer who was caught at the Leningrad Zoo. This was reported on Wednesday, July 2, by the 78 TV channel.

The man was standing with a three-month-old owl, which did not have the necessary documents. The bird is listed in the Red Book of several regions, including the city on the Neva.

The law provides for the confiscation of wild animals in illegal possession and the imposition of fines of up to 100,000 rubles.

"Wild animals require special conditions of detention that meet their physiological needs," explained Nikolai Akhmatovich, head of the Wildlife Protection Department.

According to him, non-compliance with hygienic and sanitary requirements creates a risk of diseases, including infections common to humans and animals.

Earlier, Izvestia wrote about the trade in exotic animals. Animals, birds and reptiles in certain circles have long turned into status luxury items. The demand for them in the shadow market is only growing along with the price.