Wildlife Trafficking

By Joey Bell, Communications and PR Representative

For hundreds of thousands of years, some of the most iconic zoo animals like elephants, lions, giraffes, jaguars and others thrived in the wild. Fast forward to 2023, and we can see these same animals dwindling in numbers as their ecosystems rapidly decline. While threats to plants and animal species can come from a multitude of sources including pollution, deforestation, destruction of natural habitats and climate change, illegal wildlife trafficking has also contributed significantly to the problem. Now, groups like the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and other conservation organizations have stepped up to raise awareness to help put an end to the illicit sale and ownership of exotic animals.

Wildlife trafficking is an international environmental crime that is devastating wildlife species across the globe as poachers, traffickers and highly organized global crime organizations relentlessly look to meet a rapidly growing demand. The overexploitation of wildlife can also pose health threats to humans, native species and livestock, especially if it introduces viruses or bacteria that native populations are unprepared to defend against.

The diverse and significant implications of wildlife trafficking, in turn, means that protecting wildlife, forests and fish must be part of a comprehensive approach to eradicating the illegal wildlife trade. That’s why we support dozens of conservation programs for plants, animals and habitats that are important to the future of wildlife and the wild places we all love. We provide homes to some of the most endangered species on earth, and through cooperative reproduction programs with other AZA accredited zoos and aquariums, work to ensure the survival of vulnerable plants and animals. Want to help support our conservation efforts and tackle wildlife exploitation?

With every membership, donation, admission or special event ticket, you help our ongoing efforts. These funds support our daily operations, and a percentage of every purchase goes directly to our various conservation efforts. Read on to learn more about the unlawful purchase and sale of exotic animals from around the globe, the laws and regulations being passed to prevent the exploitation of animals and what we are doing to help!

White-lipped island pitvipers were confiscated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) as part of a multi-year investigation. Multiple individuals were uncovered attempting to sell approximately 200 snakes that were illegally imported into the state of Florida as part of the pet trade.

See page 16 for more details.