The Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, Dr Maryam Mariya, has announced the development of a management plan to address the crow population in Addu City.

In a public statement, she emphasised that the Government would prioritise coexistence and ecological balance over lethal control methods.

Dr Mariya made these remarks in response to a parliamentary question regarding the threat posed by crows to dhondheeni (white tern), a protected bird species native to Addu City. The inquiry followed comments she made during the Ahaa Forum, where she expressed opposition to killing crows or similar animals, advocating instead for harmonious coexistence.

She reiterated this stance, stressing the importance of understanding how to live alongside wildlife. The Minister noted that issues concerning crows and bats were largely a result of habitat degradation and loss, highlighting the urgent need to safeguard natural ecosystems.

Addressing the specific case of Addu, Minister Dr Mariya confirmed that discussions with relevant authorities on dhondheeni conservation had already taken place. She assured the public that a thorough management plan would soon be implemented to resolve the issue and ensure the protection of the species.

The Minister firmly rejected the notion of culling, deeming it neither viable nor ethical. She instead advocated for a strategic, non-destructive approach centred on coexistence between human communities and local wildlife. The forthcoming plan, she stated, would reflect this philosophy and strive for effective results within the shortest possible timeframe.

Minister Dr Mariya further observed that the ecosystem had suffered considerable imbalances, partly due to the disappearance of numerous bird species. She called for enhanced  plantation initiatives as a means of restoring biodiversity.

Reflecting on previous practices, she noted that the eradication of animals such as crows and bats on certain islands had negatively impacted not only wildlife populations but also the ecological stability of those environments.