The Sobering Reality of the Illegal Reptile Trade is Heartwrenching
Fourteen markets, 1500 animals, two years, $100,000. What do these all have in common? They are the stark reality of the illegal wildlife trade in Morocco. As a result of four surveys done over two years in Moroccan towns, it was determined that $100,000 worth of reptiles were sold openly in the markets. The surprising factor is that there is no secrecy involved in this illegal trade. Although many endangered species are bought and sold through these markets daily, the animals are marketed in the open square. Unfortunately, this is the case due to lack of government enforcement of regulations. The Moroccan government states that they are attempting to implement conservation measures, but the main issue is insufficient resources for the tasks of identifying target ecosystems and dealing with illegal vendors.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
AU: Caretta caretta hatchlings observed on beach
UK: Early start to nesting season a huge surprise
UK: Botanical Gardens installs fences to protect turtles
India: Guiding hatchlings to the sea
Blog
Seychelles: Most recent nesting news blog
Health & Medical
Asia: Coins didn’t just affect one unfortunate sea turtle
Miscellany
USA: Celebrations in store for Gopher Tortoise day
Did You Know…
Glyptemys muhlenbergii was known as Clemmys muhlenbergii until 2008, when the species was placed in the genus Glyptemys.
Question or Concerns? Want to submit an article to get posted? Email us at [email protected].
Photo from Vincent Nijman and Daniel Bergin.
