The illegal wildlife trade is the fourth largest criminal enterprise globally. Animals seized from traffickers often arrive in poor condition and require specialised care. Understanding this pipeline highlights where welfare interventions matter most.
Wildlife trafficking causes acute and severe welfare harm throughout the capture-to-sale pipeline. Wild capture methods including snares and nets cause injury. Animals are transported in concealed, overcrowded conditions without food, water, or temperature control. Mortality rates of 70-80% before reaching buyers represent the most extreme welfare failure. Animals that survive trafficking arrive physiologically compromised and psychologically stressed. Confiscation by authorities removes animals from immediate danger but presents its own welfare challenges: holding facilities may be inadequate and return to the wild is often impossible. Sanctuaries and rehabilitation centres providing professional care for confiscated animals are a critical welfare intervention.