Animal Cruelty

Wildlife Trafficking and Animal Welfare Harms

Wildlife trafficking is a multi-billion dollar criminal industry causing immense animal suffering through capture, transport, and trade.

Key Facts

Wildlife trafficking is the fourth largest illegal trade globally at $23 billion annually
Mortality during trafficking can reach 80% before animals reach destination
Over 100 million animals are affected by wildlife trade annually
Trafficking drives population declines in tigers, elephants, and hundreds of other species

Welfare Considerations

Animals captured for wildlife trade experience terror, injury, and deprivation. Transport conditions involve extreme crowding, temperature stress, dehydration, and complete social disruption. Many animals die before reaching their destination. Those that survive often suffer for years in inappropriate captivity. Demand reduction and strengthened law enforcement are key interventions.

What You Can Do

Never purchase wildlife products of uncertain origin
Report suspected wildlife trafficking to authorities and TRAFFIC
Support CITES enforcement programs protecting endangered species
Refuse exotic pets that may be wild-caught or trafficked species