Illegal Wildlife Trafficking and Confiscation in the U.S.

SOURCE www.npr.org
A criminal investigator in Los Angeles discovered box turtles being illegally exported to Asia. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working to provide specialized care and find long-term homes for these confiscated animals. The illegal wildlife trade is a booming sector worth billions annually, causing harm to nature and risking public health. Efforts are being made to establish a network to assist in the placement of confiscated animals.

Key Points

  • The illegal wildlife trade is worth billions annually and poses a threat to global biodiversity.
  • Efforts to combat wildlife trafficking include specialized care for confiscated animals and the establishment of placement networks.
  • The surge in American turtles being trafficked is attributed to wealth in Asian countries, leading to a demand for exotic pets.

Pros

  • Efforts by organizations like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Association for Zoos and Aquariums aim to provide specialized care and find long-term homes for confiscated animals.
  • Establishing networks like the Wildlife Confiscations Network can streamline the process of placing confiscated animals in suitable facilities.

Cons

  • The illegal wildlife trade is a lucrative sector causing harm to nature and risking public health.
  • Confiscated animals face challenges such as potential sickness, distress, and the difficulty of being returned to the wild.