Wildlife trafficking is the fourth largest illegal trade globally. Strengthening enforcement protects millions of animals from capture, transport and sale in conditions that cause enormous suffering.
Wildlife trafficking causes suffering at every stage: capture using snares or traps that cause injury; transport in cramped, dark, inadequately ventilated containers; and sale into inappropriate captive conditions where animals continue to suffer. The mortality rates during trafficking mean that for every animal that reaches its destination, many more die en route. Enforcement actions that intercept shipments reduce suffering but must be accompanied by proper animal care facilities for confiscated animals and repatriation where feasible. Consumer demand reduction — particularly in source countries for traditional medicine ingredients and destination countries for exotic pets — is essential alongside supply-side enforcement. AI-powered monitoring of online marketplaces is an increasingly effective tool.