Brazilian wildlife authorities made a massive bust recently, arresting 45 people and saving hundreds of exotic animals in the process.
What's happening?
According to El Paso Inc., Brazilian authorities rescued hundreds of animals in a mid-September bust, including toucans, macaws, tortoises, monkeys, and a python. The bust didn't stop with animals; over 1,000 law enforcement officials took part in the bust across Rio de Janeiro, which was "the largest operation in Brazil's history to combat the trafficking of wild animals, weapons, and ammunition," according to a police statement on the operation.
The gang had operated for decades and was allegedly responsible for the mass hunting of wild animals for trafficking. According to the report, one part of the gang specialized in hunting, drugging, and trafficking monkeys.
Why is animal trafficking important?
The trafficking of wild animals is incredibly dangerous, both for the animals and those purchasing them. For the people who buy trafficked animals, they often find themselves caring for animals that they are wholly unqualified to handle, leading to injury or worse.
But trafficking takes a much, much heavier toll on wildlife. They are seldom well cared-for during their capture and transit, and are frequently stressed, injured, or even killed in the process.
"Animal trafficking is not just cruel — it's a death sentence. Many animals die before even reaching the market, which shows the sheer brutality of this trade," Bernardo Rossi, state secretary of environment and sustainability, said in a statement.
Find the best HVAC solution to heat and cool your home more efficiently Mitsubishi Electric’s efficient heating and cooling HVAC solutions can help you stay comfortable no matter the weather or region. You can even regulate temperatures in each room with individually controlled all-electric heat pump systems. With an energy-efficient, all-climate system from Mitsubishi, you can reduce the amount of energy needed to heat and cool your home, receive up to $2,000 in tax credits, and get peace of mind knowing you’re choosing rigorously tested, high-quality products. |
On top of that, removing these animals from their native ecosystems disrupts those ecosystems in profound ways, which can lead to serious unforeseen consequences.
What's being done about trafficking?
The good news is, most countries around the world are taking a hard line when it comes to illegal trafficking of animals.
Countries like India have been cracking down on the poaching and trafficking of wildlife, while Spain recently made a sizable bust of their own in the Canary Islands. Even INTERPOL has gotten into the mix, coordinating one of the largest busts of all time across multiple countries back in March.
Ultimately, it's clear that the world is taking animal trafficking seriously and is fighting hard to stop the practice before more animals are hurt by it.
TCD Picks » Upway Spotlight
💡Upway makes it easy to find discounts of up to 60% on premium e-bike brands
|
Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
Definitely 👍 
Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Cool Picks
