Welfare Science

Wildlife Crime and Animal Welfare: The Hidden Suffering of Trafficking

Wildlife trafficking causes immense individual animal suffering beyond its conservation impact. Understanding the welfare dimension of wildlife crime strengthens the case for enforcement.

Key Facts

The illegal wildlife trade is estimated at USD 23 billion annually
Live animals are transported in cruel conditions with extremely high mortality rates
Turtles, parrots, primates, and big cats are among the most commonly trafficked species
Suffering during transport includes dehydration, injury, and psychological trauma
Trafficking also spreads zoonotic disease, posing public health risks
CITES and national legislation provide frameworks but enforcement is severely under-resourced

Welfare Considerations

Wildlife trafficking causes extreme individual suffering at every stage. Animals are captured by traumatic methods, confined in tiny spaces, denied food and water during transport, and experience the loss of social groups and familiar environments. Mortality rates in transit may exceed 80% for some species. Those reaching markets alive often suffer further in poor conditions. The welfare dimension of wildlife crime deserves as much attention as the conservation dimension.

What You Can Do

Report suspected wildlife trafficking to the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit
Support TRAFFIC and other organisations monitoring the wildlife trade
Advocate for increased enforcement resources and international cooperation on wildlife crime