A starving reality TV contestant caught and swallowed a protected bird in New Zealand

A contestant on an American reality show killed and ate a protected bird in New Zealand has caused a stir. The maximum sentence you can get for this is not small: up to two years in prison or a fine of 100,000 New Zealand dollars (approximately 55,000 euros). Fortunately, the authorities are taking the crime lightly.

Weka

The weka is an endangered species, so it is protected in New Zealand. Jones was disqualified after the show’s producers got his special meal. The authorities have been informed about the incident. Jones and the production company escape with an official warning. “These were unique circumstances and the participants were tired and hungry with a special group dynamic. Therefore, a warning is appropriate.”

In Race to Survive, participants have to complete a 250 kilometer route through the forest in 40 days. In addition to white water rafting, climbing rock walls and finding their way through cave systems, they also have to forage on their own. The show shows how eel, porcupine and duck eggs are eaten, but everyone is warned in advance not to touch native birds.

Sorry! Hungry

Jones knew Wekka was protected as she apologized on screen for her ‘stupid mistake’ and admitted that hunger drove her to take the action. “What I did was disrespectful to New Zealand. It was short-sighted and stupid,” the survivor said.