LAHORE: A horde of preserved animals, both endemic and exotic, including many rare species, has been confiscated by the Punjab Wildlife and Parks Department from a herbal doctor (Hakeem) in the Taxali Gate area of Lahore.

Ghulam Rasool, deputy director of the Punjab Wildlife Department of Lahore division, told Dawn the confiscated stuffed animals include various reptile species such as the Indian rock python, marsh crocodile, different snakes, monitor lizard and spiny-tailed lizards.

The hakeem claimed that the body parts, skin, and oil of these animals contained “aphrodisiac” properties.

Exotic animals like the African lion and kangaroo were also confiscated during the raid. Among the preserved mammals, jungle cat, porcupine, jackal, and mongoose were also included.