Wildlife

Wildlife Crime and Animal Welfare

Wildlife crime including poaching, illegal trade, and persecution causes enormous suffering globally, with direct welfare impacts on millions of individual animals annually.

Key Facts

Illegal wildlife trade is estimated at USD 23 billion annually, making it a major global crime
Snare trapping causes prolonged suffering before death from injury, stress, and dehydration
Live wildlife trafficking causes extreme stress and mortality rates of up to 60% in transit
Raptor persecution in the UK remains a significant welfare and conservation problem
Wildlife crime prosecution and conviction rates remain low in most jurisdictions

Welfare Considerations

Wildlife crime causes some of the most severe and prolonged animal suffering imaginable. Stronger enforcement, international cooperation, and demand reduction are urgently needed.

What You Can Do

Report suspected wildlife crime to the relevant authorities immediately
Support organisations investigating and prosecuting wildlife crime
Avoid purchasing wildlife products that may drive illegal trade demand
Raise awareness of wildlife crime welfare impacts with others