No Wild Pets!

Moving

2005-06-15T09:42:00.000-05:00

Please visit Jane Crow Journal for ongoing updates on issues relating to wildlife in captivity.

Thanks!!

Spring Cleaning

2005-05-17T10:33:00.000-05:00

I let this blog go for too long and am now trying to re-do the look and substance of the No Wild Pets! site.

I am still going to put most of my focus and attention on the pet / wild animal trade, but will also offer some information on wildlife issues that impact the trade or influence current wildlife protection policies.

This is also spring auction season - If you hear of any exotic auctions in your area, please email me and I will post them here in case someone would like to draw attention to the event with media, etc.

Thanks and more to come.

New Species of Fox Found

2005-05-10T15:00:00.000-05:00

New species of mammal discovered in Borneo

10.05.05
By GEOFFREY LEAN and JAN McGIRK

Scientists believe they have found a wholly new species of mammal deep in the heart of one of the richest, least studied and most endangered wildlife areas on Earth.

The discovery of an apparently new kind of fox in the dense forests of central Borneo is an extremely rare event.

Only a handful of new mammals have been discovered in the whole world over the past 70 years. more...

Captive Elephants Dying Young

2005-05-10T14:55:00.000-05:00

Elephants start dying when the gates close

(For a long time after traveling and working throughout the African continent ---- and seeing the glories of 10,000 animals in the wild, among them herds of elephants shuffling through jungle and plain in perfect serenity, the newborn dancing in and out of the legs of the adults with no fear --- Observer could not go near a zoo without getting sick.)

The elephant record in San Diego, by the statistics that advocates provide, is not good. Florence Lambert, founder and director of a group called Elephant Alliance, wrote in February, "Of the 16 African elephants that have been held in captivity by the San Diego Zoological Society since 1961, nine have died (the average age being 18.2 years). In the wild, elephants live to be 60 to 70 years
old."

Sick and Dangerous Entertainment in China

2005-03-16T13:55:00.000-06:00

Chinese safari parks stop live feeding shows

BEIJING : Chinese safari parks have agreed to stop staging live feeding shows in which horses and oxen are given to tigers who tear them to pieces for visitors' entertainment. The ban, however, only applies to large domesticated animals, the Xinhua news agency said, and only when the park is open to visitors.

Park patrons will still be allowed to throw live birds at the voracious predators, and live feedings of large animals will still be allowed after opening hours.

Managers of 22 safari parks in China agreed to the ban last week following criticism that such practices lead people to believe that animals, both hunter and prey, are human playthings, Xinhua said.

More on the Wild Horses of the US West...

2005-03-15T08:24:00.000-06:00

U.S. Wild Horse Slaughter Legalization Draws Fire
Maryann Mottfor National Geographic
News
March 10, 2005

For many Americans, wild horses are living symbols of the rugged
independence of the United States' pioneering past.

In the early 1900s millions of mares and stallions roamed the West.
Today the numbers pale by comparison. Only 37,000 wild horses and donkeys remain
on public lands, primarily in Nevada, Oregon, and Wyoming.

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management, which has been responsible
for preserving and protecting the herds for more than three decades, plans to
further reduce the population to 28,000 by the end of this year.

Horrific Scene at 'Exotic Animal Farm'

2005-02-25T11:09:00.000-06:00

Handling exotic animals not easy
By Tom Hennessy

During the 3-week trial, Weinhart spent three days on the witness stand. He accused investigators of staging photos and plotting against him to steal his animals.

Also testifying was actress Tippi Hedren, who operates Shambala, an animal shelter in Acton for abused exotic animals. Hedren, whose own sanctuary is highly regarded in animal rights circles, had visited Weinhart's compound.

"I left in tears," she told me in the December column. There was trash all over the outside. There were carcasses of dead animals, with mold on them inside. There was no shelter for the animals from rain or cold."

This story is not unique, unfortunately. Situations will continue like this until comprehensive, loop-hole free legislation is established.

Escaped Tiger Shot and Killed

2005-02-25T10:52:00.000-06:00

Officials seek owner of escaped tiger, defend shooting
Animal rights groups hope the incident will force legislators to tighten restrictions for ownership of exotic pets.
By The Associated Press

Officials, defending the fatal shooting of an escaped tiger that was roaming the hills near Simi Valley, continued Thursday to seek the big cat's owner as animal rights groups called for stricter exotic pet ownership laws.

Trackers with the U.S. Department of Agriculture shot the 425-pound black and orange cat Wednesday morning as it came within several hundred yards of a local park and highway. State Fish and Game trackers had been following its paw prints for more than a week as it roamed the brush near the Ronald Reagan Library, warning families in the nearby community to keep their children inside.

Fish and Game officials said Thursday they had been swamped with e-mails and phone calls from people outraged over the decision to kill the tiger instead of tranquilizing it. more...

This entire episode is grossly idiotic. How sad.

Lion Seen Near Reagan Library Estate

2005-02-19T15:10:00.000-06:00

Big, exotic cat seen roaming hills near Reagan presidential library

SIMI VALLEY - State wildlife officials suspect a large exotic cat, possibly an African lion, is roaming the rural countryside near the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, authorities said Friday.

Professional trackers were brought in to hunt for the animal after several sets of tracks, far too large for native bobcats or mountain lions, were found on a ranch not far from the hilltop library.

A ranch caretaker Tuesday reported seeing a glimpse of a large cat, possibly a lion, dart into the brush. At least two other people within 1/4 mile of the ranch reported seeing the cat, which officials estimate may be as large as 600 pounds.

"It had to have come from somewhere in captivity," said Lorna Bernard, a spokeswoman for the state Department of Fish and Game. "We are going to be on it until we catch the animal or find evidence he's no longer in the area."

Bay St. Louis Exotic Pet Bylaw

2005-02-19T15:07:00.000-06:00

Exotic pet ban plan to be reviewed

The proposed ordinance lists more than 100 species that would be illegal to own in the city, such as hippopotamuses, giraffes, reptiles that could potentially grow longer than eight feet, and iguanas.

Animals Found Inside California Home

2005-02-10T07:32:00.000-06:00

Lions, Tigers, Lynxes Among 22 Exotic Animals Found In House
Animals Found In Rural Neighborhood

MOORPARK, Calif. -- Lions and tigers were among the 22 exotic animals discovered inside a house in a rural Tierra Rejada Valley neighborhood.

The owners do not have permits and Ventura County officials are trying to determine how to remove the animals, said Jarrod DeGonia, an aide to Supervisor Judy Mikels, whose office has gotten a flurry of calls from alarmed residents since Friday's discovery.
"There's a lot of upset people over this," he said.

County officials, including the Animal Regulation Department, have no authority to remove the animals, zoning enforcement officer Gloria Goldman said. But Goldman issued a violation notice with owners Chuck and Melinda Carmichael because they do not have a permit for the animals.
After 30 days, the county can put a lien on the property and file charges if the animals are not removed, Goldman said. The animals were inside the house and there was no fencing or enclosure on the property.

Elephant Kills Handler in Fort Wayne

2005-02-03T16:47:00.000-06:00

Elephants thought victim a toy

A Texas man who died Monday while loading elephants onto a trailer fell and hit his head while trying to climb out. Two elephants then stomped on him and swatted at him like a basketball, local investigators said Tuesday.

It goes to show, no matter what their 'rationale,' elephants are dangerous to humans. They are wild animals, and their sheer size makes them unsuitable for close human contact. I hope the issue comes before court and Tarzan Zerbeni is prohibited from using elephants in the future.

With regard to sanctuaries - Do your homework!

2005-01-26T16:12:00.000-06:00

While reading about yet another "sanctuary" possibly facing charges for negligence / animal cruelty, it occurred to me that there are a lot of animal lovers who simply do not know the difference between a legitimate sanctuary and roadside zoo.

Most substandard zoos operators have learned the jargon and know how to promote their facility by claiming they are "rescuing abused animals" or participating in a rehabilitation program.

Another favorite claim is that they are a part of a licensed 'capture and release' program. This is always a favorite because you can almost always ask specific questions to which they never have solid answers (or can cite one instance of successful release - with the exception of local wildlife, such as squirrels or raccoons).

In light of all this weasel wording, it's tough for disillusioned donors to know who to trust.

I have found one source to be quite reliable: The Association of Sanctuaries (TAOS). They are both knowledgeable about the trade in exotic and wild animals and have qualified professionals on board to assess the quality of interested sanctuaries.

They have a list posted online of all of those sanctuaries that provide good husbandry practices, behavioural enrichment, and qualified staff who have specialized knowledge in dealing with the species they house.

Check them out and put your support behind sanctuaries that are truly making a difference in the lives of exotic and wild animals.

Squirrel Monkeys Removed from Night Club

2005-01-22T15:15:00.000-06:00

Monkeys surprisedby new home

That appeared to end four years of controversy in which animal rights groups in Honolulu had contended that the animals were being held under conditions they described as "psychological torture" because of the loud music at the nightclub, limited living space for the animals and the lack of a place where the monkeys could escape from prying human eyes.

I have heard rumours about a tiger and/or other large cats being showcased in and around Toronto's night clubs. As of yet, haven't been able to track anything. Of course, it's never officially advertised.

Rhino Population Severely At Risk

2005-01-18T10:25:00.000-06:00

Rhinos at risk to move to safety

There could be more northern whites in zoos than in the wild. Some of the last few northern white rhinos still alive are being moved from their home in central Africa amid fears that poachers will wipe them out.

According to the International Rhino Foundation heavily armed poachers on horseback launch raids into the national park from neighbouring Sudan.

Rhino horns fetch high prices in some cultures for their supposed medical properties.

Lifestyles of the wealthy and Vacuous

2005-01-13T13:29:00.000-06:00

Paris Hilton sets eyes on a Kangaroo!

LONDON: Hotel heiress Paris Hilton has now set her eyes on a kangaroo to be added to her exotic collection of pets.

The kangaroo would be the latest addition to her pets, which include, a goat, a monkey, a ferret called Dolce and Gabbana, and a chihuahua named Tinkerbell.

Elephant Not Suited for Alaska? Go Figure...

2005-01-10T15:10:00.000-06:00

Elephant will tread new ground

By Sarah Kershaw
The New York Times
January 10, 2005

Maggie, the African elephant who has resided at the Alaska Zoo here since 1983 -- a creature of the tropics amid snow leopards and polar bears -- is, after all, said to be rather moody and prickly.

But whether Maggie, a 22-year-old native of Zimbabwe, is depressed because she is spending another dark and freezing winter in Alaska has been the subject of a long and charged debate, here and across the country.

Facing growing demands that she be moved to a warmer climate, where she could socialize with other elephants and get much more outdoor exercise, Alaska Zoo officials decided to keep her in Anchorage for now but came up with an unusual proposal to improve her exercise situation: They plan to build this 9,120-pound elephant a treadmill.

A treadmill?! This is a sad day in PR history. Give it up already.

It's always entertaining to hear zoo keepers try to make a case for using elephants in their facility.

"I just don't know where you are going to put her where she's happier than she is here," Rob Smith, Maggie's trainer and manager for the past seven years, said on a recent frigid afternoon at the zoo, as Maggie stomped around her concrete barn.

Brilliant.

Hunting of black bears permitted

2005-01-07T09:08:00.000-06:00

Wildlife officials allow limited kills of once scarce animals

CARRIE SPENCER
Associated Press

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Black bears in New Jersey and Florida, wolves in the Rockies and Alaska, deer and Canada geese just about everywhere - state wildlife officials nationwide are finding themselves allowing the hunting or trapping of animals once thought on the brink of vanishing.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that wildlife causes $1 billion in crop and livestock damage each year, while deer collisions injure about 29,000 motorists a year and cost another $1 billion. Bird collisions cost the aviation industry $740 million annually.

What about the irreversible damage the cattle industry has caused to the West, Mexico, parts of South America and Africa, hmm? What about the draught, wildife eradication, and water pollution the cattle industry brings to our world? How about less of that?!

More Misguided Animal Lovers

2005-01-04T13:14:00.000-06:00

Exotic animal adventure
Peacocks, pythons and piranha, Truro-area attraction has them all

By CATHY VON KINTZEL / Truro Bureau

NORTH RIVER - David Clarke's dream is to dispel Hollywood's scary myths about creatures some people may find in their nightmares.

The animal-loving junior high school teacher has transformed a stately old two-storey barn near Truro into an exotic animal adventure called Shedders and Feathers.

Mr. Clarke went on to say, as all exotic pets owners do...

"This has always been a dream of mine, to combine my teaching with my love of animals," Mr. Clarke said Monday over the squawking and wing flapping of his blue and gold macaw.

I just wish people would understand that to cultivate and teach a love and respect for wildlife it is not necessary to remove animals from their natural habitat. It's a mixed message, Mr. Clarke is teaching his students - One that says it is okay to deny animals their right to live naturally so long as you "care" about them.

Wildlife May Have Sensed Impending Tsunami

2004-12-29T08:18:00.000-06:00

Tsunamis Kill People In Sri Lanka, But Not Animals

YALA NATIONAL PARK, Sri Lanka -- Wildlife officials in Sri Lanka expressed surprise Wednesday that they found no evidence of large-scale animal deaths from the weekend's massive tsunami - indicating that animals may have sensed the wave coming and fled to higher ground.

An Associated Press photographer who flew over Sri Lanka's Yala National Park in an air force helicopter saw abundant wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, deer, and not a single animal corpse.

I find it amazing - the sensitivity level to danger - that helped preserve some of the region's wildlife. Observing wildlife, one can see the hyper-awareness that is instinctual to other animals.

I wish we had some way of detecting these cues - it is likely we did in our species' prehistory.

Minnesota Adopts Tougher Laws for Exotics

2004-12-29T08:12:00.000-06:00

Tougher Exotic Animal Regulations Hit The Books

Under the law, owners of animals such as bears, lions and tigers, chimpanzees and gorillas will be required to register with the local animal control authority within 60 days.

The notification must include the persons name, address, telephone number, and a complete inventory of each regulated animal. Failing to do so could result in misdemeanor charges.

The animals must see a veterinarian at least once a year and the owner must maintain health and ownership records and keep those records for the life of the animal or transfer them if the animal is sold or given to someone else.

It's a start - but lots of loopholes. The law also fails to address smaller animals, ignoring zoonotic diseases.

Ban on Canned Hunts

2004-12-23T08:22:00.000-06:00

ONTARIO GOVERNMENT BANS HUNTING OF WILDLIFE IN CAPTIVITY
New Regulation Takes Effect April 2005

TORONTO — Ontario will ban the hunting of wildlife held in captivity on game farms, Natural Resources Minister David Ramsay announced today.

"Many Ontarians have strong views against hunting animals in captivity and believe it is not compatible with the values of our hunting heritage," said Ramsay. "We have listened to those concerns and are acting on them." read more...

This is good news. Hopefully, it provides a starting point for the Minister to also assess the state of Ontario zoos and other animal based facilities.

Wild Horses Face Untold Future

2004-12-16T13:00:00.000-06:00

Lisa J.Tolda /RENO GAZETTE-JOURNAL
THE GATHERING: The Bureau of Land Management on Jan. 30 was at work rounding up 251 wild horses from the Lahontan Herd Management Area. A helicopter and wranglers gathered horses for about a week at several different sites.

Opponents want horse law reversed
Sale of mustangs: Protectors say it could result in animal slaughter

This is an issue outside of exotic pets, but an important one that needs as much attention as possible. Please vocalize your outrage at the removal and possible sell and slaughter of Nevada's wild horses.

For more information, go to Wild Horse Spirit

Animals Seized from Private Residence

2004-12-09T13:42:00.000-06:00

More than 90 animals are seized near Akron

Calgary Zoo Elephant Rejected by Mother Dies

2004-12-09T13:00:00.000-06:00

Zoo vows to continue with breeding program

Animal rights groups say the death of a baby elephant at the Calgary Zoo didn't have to happen.
Groups like Zoocheck Canada say programs to breed elephants in captivity are pointless.

The organization says breeding programs are designed to replenish the numbers of zoo animals and have no benefit to diminishing populations in the wild.

"The only way to conserve these kinds of animals is to protect the habitat and deal with poaching problems," said Julie Woodyer of Zoocheck.

I completely agree. If they wanted to effectively promote elephants in the wild, they would set up in situ facilities and help curb poaching. Zoos serve selfish ends, and do little to impact species conservation.

Man trampled by "pet" wildebeest

2004-12-07T11:08:00.000-06:00

Indiana Man Attacked, Killed By Wildebeest

(NORTH LIBERTY, Ind., December 7th, 2004, 11:30 a.m.) -- A wildebeest that was part of a man's menagerie of exotic animals trampled him to death on his northern Indiana farm, police said.

It was unclear what caused the roughly 500-pound wildebeest, an African antelope also known as a gnu, to attack Klaus "Dick" Radandt, 64, in the barnyard behind his home Sunday in North Liberty, about 10 miles southwest of South Bend.

This area is notoriously bad for exotic pets - Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana are among the worst states for exotic animals legislation. Perhaps with incidents like this in the news, they will reconsider their currently lax attitude.

Roadside Zoo Once Again Gets Permit Renewal

2004-12-01T10:25:00.000-06:00

GuZoo gets operating extension

"This facility is by no means a safe facility for animals and/or people," Richard Farinato, who works with humane societies in the U.S., said. "There are humane issues and welfare issues galore, in terms of how animals are treated, how they're fed, how they're housed, how they're medicated and treated if they're ill."

Farinato calls it the worst zoo he's ever seen.

This is really disappointing, but advocates for animals are up-ing their efforts and hope the permit will not be extended beyond its temporary status.

Having seen numerous photos, I can attest to the fact that the "zoo" is one of the poorest I have seen. Considering the biting incidents and many complaints, it is obvious the only person being protected here is the guy who's making money off of the facility.

Gotta love the law.

Ohio - Hotbed for Exotic Pet Trade

2004-12-01T10:09:00.000-06:00

Trade In Exotic Animals Endangers People & Animals

A Tri-state man risked his life in an undercover mission that delved into a world many of us know nothing about.

Ohio is second only to Texas when it comes to the sale of dangerous exotic animals.

Tim Harrison heads up the organization, "Outreach for Animals" and says his goal when he went into an exotic animals auction in Mount Hope, Ohio was to show us what's going on under our noses.

More depressing news for tiger populations...

2004-11-26T08:52:00.000-06:00

Skin trade threatens world's surviving tigers

In Asia, tiger skins can sell for $15,000. In Vietnam, a skeleton -- the bones widely believed by Asians to be an aphrodisiac -- can fetch as much as $25,000.

"It is believed that about 100 years back, the global population of wild tigers was about 100,000," Dey said. "However, the population dwindled to 8,000 by 1960. Today it stands at around 5,000 to 7,000."

It's been stated (even here) that the problem with the trade is that it is largely made up of the starving, sub-poverty level poor. While I agree that the trade tends to utilize the poor for the "dirty work," it does not forgive the crime in itself.

For example, if I were starving, the issue at hand would be to acquire food. In this sense, I can understand poaching certain animals to consume. But the trade in skins and parts is very lucrative. The money is the motivation - not the ability for subsistence. This is why I do not believe we should take focus off the crime, although I am in agreement that the "demand" side of things should be more aggressively targeted.

Thoughts?

Hooray for NYC

2004-11-24T15:07:00.000-06:00

New York City Council Bill Targets Illegal Trading in Endangered Species
November 23, 2004 — By Frank Lombardi, Daily News

NEW YORK − The City Council is set to put a big bite on buyers and sellers of outlawed products containing endangered species.

A bill scheduled for approval tomorrow by the full Council will make it easier to convict violators and sock them with fines of $500 to $1,500.

Siberian Tiger Attacks Handler

2004-11-22T09:31:00.000-06:00

Tiger Injures Handler at Fla. County Fair

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (AP) -- The owner of a wildlife sanctuary was injured by a 350-pound Siberian tiger that was startled by a 14-year-old boy at a county fair, officials said Sunday.

Curt LoGiudice jumped between the tiger and the boy, who was knocked to the ground with LoGiudice.

St. Johns County Sheriff's deputies had to shoot the animal twice with stun guns to get it to release LoGiudice, who kept his grip on the tiger's leash and was able to calm it down and take it back to his sanctuary before driving himself to a hospital.

From the BBC

2004-11-22T09:26:00.000-06:00

Illegal traders 'go unpunished'
Traders openly selling illegal animal products such as ivory in UK shops cannot be arrested because of a government "slip-up", it has emerged.

Speaking of boneheads

2004-11-19T17:07:00.000-06:00

Owner's reunion with exotic cat short-lived as her pet flees again

By SUE McCLUREStaff Writer
Dog worked gate open, letting serval to escape

COLUMBIA — Freedom must have tasted mighty good to Nyla, an African serval who wandered loose for three weeks before being captured Nov. 10 in downtown Columbia.

The cat is loose again.

Ice Ice Bonehead

2004-11-19T16:59:00.000-06:00

Vanilla Ice wants wallaroo back, but exotic animals not allowed in Florida

Friday, November 19, 2004

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (AP) - Vanilla Ice wants his wallaroo back.
The 36-year-old rap performer, who had a '90s hit with Ice Ice Baby, called animal control officials Wednesday to report that a wallaroo and a goat found wandering around Port St. Lucie belong to him.

They had escaped from his backyard, city officials said.

Great. I sense he will soon become one of those bitter, eccentric, reclusive Hollywood flunkies who will naturally gravitate into the role of exotic pet owner. I'm not liking this trend at all.

Lota on her way to the Elephant Sanctuary

2004-11-17T08:21:00.000-06:00

From Chains to Sanctuary
Wednesday November 17, 9:00 am ET
Lota the Elephant is Finally Rescued after Years of Suffering

HOHENWALD, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 17, 2004--Lota, a circus elephant that has been the focus of three lawsuits, the inspiration for an international petition for her release and responsible for raising awareness of the plight of captive elephants worldwide, will finally be released to the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee. Read more...

Captive care frustrating for whale, too

2004-11-15T08:11:00.000-06:00

Caring for whale can be both fun and frustrating

BY DENIS CUFF

Knight Ridder Newspapers

"You want to stay one step ahead of a killer whale so she doesn't get bored," he said.

While Peranteau said Shouka has adapted well to the Vallejo park, he hopes the park succeeds in a plan to import her a mate from Argentina.

"It's not optimal for a killer whale to live alone," he said.

Or in a tank, but they aren't changing their minds about that....

Parrot Sanctuary

2004-11-15T08:07:00.000-06:00

Room to spread their wings: Parrot sanctuary needs more space to take care of unwanted exotic birds

Ringling's baaaack...

2004-11-11T08:18:00.000-06:00

Toronto is once again bending its own rules and is allowing Ringling Brothers to come to Air Canada Centre (and with the animals). Kind of defeats the purpose of having a bylaw prohibiting wild and exotic animals within city limits, but hey, what's a little bit of hypocrisy.

Of course, the loopholes inherent in the Toronto bylaw make the bylaw moot. Anyone with the drive to create a pamphlet or sign with some interesting, "educational" facts about the species they are showcasing can get around the bylaw (which allows for acts with educational content).

Anyway, the discussion of the inept bylaw is not my main focus today. What I wanted to post was a question to others out there who oppose animal-based circuses.

What do you do to effectively lobby against animal based acts in your community? Does it work?

I know there will be people down at the Centre picketing the event and passing out literature. That's all fine and good, but I have found it less than effective, and in some cases, counterproductive. Thing is, there are very few options outside of continuing to push for stricter bylaws and bylaw enforcement.

I know my thinking is short-sighted and my ideas are not overflowing today. Does anyone have any other creative, peaceful ways of educating the public and dissuading people from going?

Cheers,
A

Serval on the loose in Tennessee

2004-11-09T09:08:00.000-06:00

Wildlife officers, owner on the prowl for missing exotic cat

COLUMBIA — Wildlife and animal control officers are playing cat-and-mouse with an African serval after the exotic cat escaped its Columbia residence three weeks ago — and headed into the wild.

Canned Hunts

2004-11-08T09:39:00.000-06:00

Shoot to thrill
At high-fence preserves, game hunters pay big bucks to kill exotic animals over a weekend. But has it taken the sport out of sport hunting?

Wild Animal Consumption Poses Risks

2004-11-06T15:19:00.000-06:00

Risky Dining

Some wild animals which are protected in Shanghai are not in other parts of China, which means Shanghai restaurants can evade local bans by claiming the animals were imported from outside the city. "We can interfere if the frogs are from Shanghai's Nanhui or Fengxian, but once we caught a seller with frogs from East China's Qingdao," Zhou said. "He even had a licence from the local forestry administration."

China's 10-year-old national Wild Animal Protection Law is currently in the process of being amended, which may help solve this kind of problem in the future.

Inconsistency as detrimental to campaign work

2004-11-05T11:34:00.000-06:00

Get Orang Asli into Wildlife Protection

"SAHABAT Alam Malaysia is disturbed that exotic meats are constantly in demand in restaurants, despite seizures and raids."

I have discussed the idea of trying to "morally" police other cultures on their epicurean habits. Some organizations like WSPA have begun campaigning against the consumption of dogs.

While I, too, find the consumption of dogs abhorrent, I do believe it is a form of cultural discrimination to criticize people about eating certain types of animals, as opposed to others on the sole principle that we call them "pets."

Rather, I would encourage organizations to campaign against animal consumption for all or some of the following reasons: the species in question is endangered; the consumption of the species is directly linked to the spreading of infectious diseases; the belief that eating any animal is unethical, the promotion of a vegan lifestyle; or the process of cultivation threatens other species or the habitat.

When organizations endeavor to campaign on an issue that is either culturally insensitive or inconsistent in messaging, other animal campaigns are discredited or are viewed as divisive. There are many circumstances in which this occurs. I am sure many of you can think of a number of them as well.

Instead of focusing on our personal passions and preferences, let's try to create a dialogue with other groups with whom we share a common vision, so that the chances of media mishaps and poorly envisioned campaigns are less likely.

Thoughts?

A

Kind of fishy...

2004-11-03T17:09:00.000-06:00

In the name of "research," Japan captured 59 minke whales, supposedly with the intention of studying the effects minke whales have on other fish populations. Coincidently, minke whales are the same species they submitted a proposal to CITES regarding, asking that their commercial quota be raised. CITES refused their request.

Read more...Japan Catches 59 Minke Whales in Latest Research Hunt

Falcons found at Russian airbase

2004-11-01T16:39:00.000-06:00

Smugglers Caught with Falcon Cargo

BISHKEK (Reuters) - Investigators have seized 127 rare falcons worth an estimated $5 million that were being smuggled to Syria from a Russian military airbase in Kyrgyzstan, a local prosecutor said Monday.

Investigators found the hunting birds as they were about to be flown from the Kant airbase, which Russia opened last year saying it would help strengthen security in central Asia.

Another pet alligator dumped ...

2004-11-01T08:25:00.000-06:00

Pet alligator found in Long Beach

"This is a perfect example of why people should not buy exotic animals and try to make them pets," Davis said. "People try to make wild animals into pets until they get too mean, or the people get tired of taking care of them. Most people then try to find someone who will take the animals, and if they can't, they turn them loose."

"In the case of the alligator, being a cold-blooded reptile, it would die after the outside temperatures got low enough to cause the animal to slow its metabolism to a point that it would cease to function." read more...

Boa constrictor believed to have been a "pet"

2004-11-01T08:19:00.000-06:00

Sat, October 30, 2004
Fifteen feet of mystery
Huge python discovered just outside Thompson

"Thompson's animal control officers first believed the snake was a boa constrictor, a species typically found in Central and South America. It's their theory the animal was probably an exotic pet owned by someone who didn't properly dispose of it once it had died."

Who Buys Wild Animals?

2004-10-29T09:37:00.000-05:00

What is the motivation of people seeking to own an exotic and/or wild animal?

This question has been asked many times by a wide variety of animal activists, wildlife organizations, law enforcement agents, scientists, and legislators. As if the answer to the trade in wild animals lies somewhere in the buyers perceived "need."

For some, owning an exotic/wild pet has an element of glamour or wealth. The word "exotic" has been appropriated by an advertising industry with bottom line motives. Exotic has become equated with wealth, glamour, and mystery. All of which appeal to the owner of an "exotic" animal.

For others, owning an exotic pet is simply an extension of their love for all animals; The misguided idea that somehow wild animals are "better off" in their care than in the wild. In some cases, owners claim they are doing their part in helping to keep species from going extinct by breeding the captive species in their care.

The proliferation of tigers in captivity is a good example.

From a true conservation standpoint, captive bred tigers do nothing to keep wild populations from dwindling, as captive tigers are unsuitable, in many cases, for release. In addition, genetically pure species are difficult to find in captivity as inbreeding and crossbreeding is common.

Finally and more importantly, there is fast money to be made in selling and breeding exotic/wild animals. With animal auctions every spring and fall, breeders showcase their new "babies" and advertise online and in journals. These journals are loaded with classifieds, where you can purchase everything from lemurs to caracals.

Exotic pet breeders have even formed their own community - ensuring that their source of income not be banished by bylaws. Their political voice can be quite strong, especially in states and provinces where the trade is still unregulated.

Whether it be for prestige, a love for animals, or income, those who seek to own exotic/wild animals are often just very misinformed. This naivete contributes to the growing problem of animals being "dumped" into native habitats and left on the doorsteps of shelters, once the new owner becomes overwhelmed by the demands of owning an exotic/wild animal.

Animal dumping has posed several problems to native wildlife - as proliferators of disease and competitors for food, foreign species can wreck havoc on local ecosystems.

Ultimately, whatever the motivation, the onus in on states and provinces to create comprehensive legislature. Until then, municipalities are left to monitor a trade that slips through the cracks of faulty and inutile bylaws.

Reptile trade and trend

2004-10-29T09:34:00.000-05:00

Man Cited For Exotic Reptiles

Also via Animal Concerns ...

2004-10-27T08:42:00.000-05:00

Police confiscate illegally kept wild animals

Guangzhou Zoo

2004-10-27T08:34:00.000-05:00

Ageing animals in old Guangzhou zoo lack the lustre

Yao said the zoo is State-owned, but it assumes sole responsibility for its profits or losses, only receiving about 1 million yuan (US$120,000) for maintenance from the municipal government.

"The money is just enough to pay for painting cages," said Yao.

Due to the lack of money, the zoo can not introduce new animals. Some of the animals have to inbreed to produce offspring, leading to low-quality descendants.

Keeping animals for educational purposes

2004-10-23T14:42:00.000-05:00

Man told to find new homes for alligators

"The person I spoke with told me that, as long as I used the alligators for educational purposes, there'd be no problem," Priestley said.

What is it with people? He was keeping them in 6 feet long tanks in his livingroom?!

Canada to Protect Right Whale and Others...

2004-10-23T14:35:00.000-05:00

VANCOUVER, British Columbia (Reuters) -

The North Atlantic right whale, western wolverine and the dromedary jumping-slug on Canada's Pacific coast will soon share a dubious distinction.

They are among 76 species Canadian environmental officials said on Friday they planned to add to an official list of animals and plants that are environmentally threatened or at risk of complete extinction. More...

Canada to Protect Slug, Whale, Endangered Species

SARS Fears Prompts Civet Cat Ban in China

2004-10-19T09:12:00.000-05:00

Chinese Vice Health Minister to Fight SARS in South

Chinese health experts have concluded that the civet cat, considered a delicacy in the south, was a primary source of last year's SARS epidemic.

Thousands of civets were killed in Guangdong province in January because of fears they may carry a form of the virus that can jump to humans.

I am worried that a ban on consumption alone will not be effective. They neglect to include the keeping of, selling, or trade in civet cats.

Furthermore, destroying the animals is such a reactionary response. If they were to enforce laws that keep people from co-habitating with and consuming exotic species, they would solve the problem of the spread of zoonotic diseases and new strains of interspecies viruses.

Japan accuses West of Cultural Imperialism?

2004-10-15T17:05:00.000-05:00

Via Animal News...

Japan Loses Bid to Loosen Trade in Whale Products

And an article on BBC News...

A senior official of the country's Fisheries Agency, Joji Morishita, told the programme that Japanese people felt much of the criticism was racist.

"Singling out whaling is cultural imperialism - some people would say it's racism. Norway and Iceland are also whalers, but the criticism of Japan is stronger."

This charge interests me. One one hand, I do believe that western culture views the consumption of whales as cruel, but not the consumption of countless other animals. So they have a point in our moral inconsistencies. Does the minke whale decision have something to do with racism, though? I don't believe it does; I don't believe CITES would treat a proposal by Norway or Russia any differently. However, I do believe the decision to nix Japan's proposal comes from pressure to protect large mammals most popular with environmental groups. Whales certainly top the list of charmers.

Japan argues that the supply of minke whales are stable, and therefore, they should be re-listed under a less protected App. II. Based on pure numbers, they may have reason to insist, but the real argument is the overall effect on the whale's ecosystem (in which a number of species reside) and whether or not more intelligent, large mammals should be better protected, period.

Japan is also using the "cultural tradition" card to further the argument, charging the West with an imperialistic desire to police what animals other cultures consume. Agreed. However, to what extent to do grant the rights of a culture over that of protecting a species or ecosystem?

What hasn't been addressed is the overall impact of whaling on oceanic ecosystem. Now that's an endeavor. How does the whaling industry affect the delicate oceanic web?

Further still, if the World Health Organization and the Western nations press China to enforce a ban on consuming, keeping, and selling civet cats (the culprit behind the SARS outbreak), won't this be an act of "cultural imperialism" under Japan's definition?

Protecting sea life or protecting human life. Is there a difference?

'Bushmeat' Single Biggest Threat to African Wildlife

2004-10-13T11:19:00.000-05:00

"Bushmeat has evolved from a low level subsistence activity to a huge commercial trade, supplying urban and international markets. Selling bushmeat offers an illegal (get rich quick opportunity), bypassing national regulatory regimes for domestic livestock industries, which mandate animal husbandry and hygiene requirements. As such, it increasingly falls within the CITES remit, particularly when it involves CITES Appendix I listed species such as Great Apes."

How do you address wildlife protection in an area where extreme poverty is common?

read more...

EATING THE UNKNOWN: THE URBAN BUSHMEAT TRADE

Interesting Jane Goodall news release

2004-10-11T15:44:00.000-05:00

Time to curb the wildlife trade

"Wildlife trade is one of the greatest threats faced by animals around the world.

We are consuming wildlife for fashion, traditional medicine, souvenirs, trophy hunting, and bismuth. We have commodified wildlife to the extent that an ideology has developed that wildlife can only remain if it "pays its way" -- otherwise it is superfluous.

What are the long-term implications of such an ideology?"

I am reminded of Cat's post today over at Cat Out Loud. Her well presented philosophical argument ties nicely into Goodall's question.

A

More roadside zoos

2004-10-10T14:54:00.000-05:00

"I feel the animals are in their natural place," Makarem said. "They have water, hills, grasses. It's freedom for them." (emphasis mine)

Rest stop ahead - beware of exotic animals

While this menagerie is in Egypt, it should be noted that there are at least 60 unaccredited roadside zoos of this sort (and many in much worse condition) in Ontario - many of which operate out of backyards and sheds (source: Zoocheck Canada).

a

Ivory Sales

2004-10-08T16:29:00.000-05:00

African elephants

ECOTERRA: Kenya Says Ivory Sales Endanger Elephants and Boost Poaching

Regular CITES Cop-13 Updates

2004-10-08T13:49:00.000-05:00

Kudos to the Born Free Foundation. They are regularly updating all the news from COP-13 and have reps there to report back on behind the scenes negotiations, which is great for those of us who cannot attend.

For frequently updated info, go here

CITES updates - Big Game Hunters Angered

2004-10-07T08:05:00.000-05:00

Hunters defend their turf at CITES meet
via animal concerns community

More thoughts on curtailing the exotic pet trade...

2004-10-06T17:34:00.000-05:00

Asia Needs Network to Fight Illegal Wildlife Trade

This article on ENN really has me wondering what good it does for countries with numerous economic and political problems to try and self-regulate the wild animal trade? On one hand, my reaction is to rely on some outside force to assist the country in regulating the trade, but with so many issues wrapped up in that (another country - namely the US - trying to micromanage the affairs of a third world nation, how to prioritize issues when so many human lives are also at stake, etc.) it's difficult to know what the solution is.

Obviously, my first solution is to really crack down on the demand side, rather than supply. This is the downfall of the US's attempt to regulate the drug trade, among other problems. I believe, however, we'd be more successful if we created stringent, enforceable laws restricting the use, sale, or ownership of products containing endangered animals parts, or live exotic "pets."

The problem now is that there are no solid pieces of comprehensive, prohibitive legislature, and to make things even worse, bylaws vary from town to town, state to state - and laws are drafted with so many loopholes, they are often ineffective.

I'd love to see something done on a federal level. I thought we were getting closer what with the monkeypox outbreak in prairie dogs, but no such luck.

Any thoughts on big picture solutions?

Bad news for black rhinos and leopards

2004-10-06T11:47:00.000-05:00

Looks like our friends at CITES has agreed to loosen the restrictions on hunting black rhinos and leopards in Namibia ...

Global ban on black rhino hunts is eased

"It was only natural he would get a live tiger ..."

2004-10-05T13:31:00.000-05:00

Another dumbass with an exotic animal collection. I love how media outlets report on tiger ownership so casually?!

Monkey business: Driver’s life a real zoo

I sense an attack in the near future. But apparently it won't matter since the tiger is "just playing."

“I’ve made the mistake of turning my back on her for a minute and luckily, she’s playing,” Stewart says of Tangie, who lives at the wildlife park. “She jumps up on your shoulders and puts her mouth around your neck and can make your day really bad if she wanted to. Their play is a lot rougher than the body can take.”

Sigh...
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CITES - Conference of the Parties 13

2004-10-04T15:51:00.000-05:00

For those of you who aren't familiar with CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), it is a regulatory board established to monitor the import and export of wild animals and plants and the trade's impact on those species. Their role is to establish international guidelines for member countries to follow by setting up Appendices which establish criteria for trading in those listed species. Membership is voluntary and encouraged.

This year the Conference of the Parties (or COP) is being held in Bangkok, Thailand. Some of the highlights of this year's convention include:

* A proposal to add the Great White to the list of sharks requiring a permit to capture
* A call to action to more aggressively curtail the bushmeat crisis
* Relocating the saiga antelope to Appendix I rather than II for more stringent protection
* Namibia is requesting that the annual ivory quota from the African elephant be raised due to currently healthy populations
* Japan has submitted a request that the minke whale be transferred from Appendix I to II (I'm really watching this one closely)
* Kenya is proposing that the African Lion be listed under Appendix I for stricter protection

This is only to name a few topics. I am especially interested in seeing what occurs with respect to Southeast Asian turtle and tortoise populations (as they are frequently and illegally used in many medicinal products and as exotic pets). I will keep everyone posted on the conference results as soon as I have them, or you can check out the CITES Web site for more information.

Welcome!

2004-10-04T13:54:00.000-05:00

This blog was established to provide information, news, and discussion pertaining to the trade in wild animals.

I welcome all points of view, so long as it's kept on an intellectual plane and abstains from rudeness.

Please visit and contribute.

Thanks.