Inside the Global Underground Wildlife Trafficking Market

Recent questions

• Why are pangolins valuable in Africa?

  Pangolins are valuable in Africa due to their scarcity and the high demand for their scales, making them a lucrative target for illegal trafficking. Despite being protected by international laws, the illegal wildlife industry's estimated worth of over $23 billion annually drives the demand for pangolins, particularly in countries like Nigeria where strict penalties are in place for trafficking. The animals are treated for injuries before being released back into the wild, highlighting their importance in maintaining the ecosystem.

• What is the main reason for pangolin trafficking?

  The main reason for pangolin trafficking is the demand for their scales, primarily driven by the traditional Chinese medicine market in countries like China. Despite efforts to combat the illegal trade, the perception of pangolin scales as having medicinal properties and the profit motives involved continue to fuel the demand. This has led to pangolins becoming the most trafficked mammal globally, with complex networks facilitating their trafficking through various countries.

• How is Nigeria involved in pangolin scale exports?

  Nigeria has become a hotspot for pangolin scale exports, with strict penalties in place for trafficking due to the country's role in the illegal wildlife trade. Despite international laws prohibiting the trade in pangolins, enforcement remains a challenge, especially in Nigeria where the demand for pangolin scales is high. Efforts to combat pangolin trafficking involve targeting major traders and conducting undercover operations to disrupt the networks involved in the illegal trade.

• What measures are being taken to protect pangolins?

  Measures being taken to protect pangolins include treating them for injuries before releasing them back into the wild and targeting major traders involved in the illegal trafficking of pangolin scales. International cooperation is crucial in combating pangolin trafficking, with efforts focused on ending the demand for their scales. Despite China announcing a ban on pangolin scales in traditional medicine, illegal trade continues, highlighting the need for continued enforcement and awareness to protect these endangered animals.

• Why are pangolins considered endangered?

  Pangolins are considered endangered due to the rampant illegal trafficking of their scales driven by the demand in traditional Chinese medicine markets. Despite being protected by international laws, the perception of pangolin scales as having medicinal properties and the profit motives involved in their trade have led to their status as the most trafficked mammal globally. Efforts to combat pangolin trafficking involve targeting major traders and raising awareness about the importance of protecting these animals to maintain the ecosystem's balance.