Domestic networks contribute to the diversity and composition of live wildlife trafficked in urban markets in Peru
Date of Publication
1-1-2023 12:00 AM
Security Theme
Transnational Organized Crime
Keywords
Wildlife trade, Peru, urban markets, live wildlife trafficking, TOC
Description
Wildlife trade in Peru is often overlooked, with most research focusing on subsistence use of wild meats and live wildlife trafficking, particularly birds. Despite the illegality of wildlife extraction or possession without captive-bred origin, wildlife sales in urban markets have been common and accepted. This paper describes trends in the diversity and composition of live wildlife trafficked in urban markets in Peru. To do so, live wildlife sales in 16 Peruvian urban markets from 2007 to 2012 were surveyed. The findings show that historical legal action and enforcement have not prevented illegal wildlife trafficking in urban markets in Peru. Data also suggests that urban markets are connected in a structured network that provides consumers with a diverse selection of species from across the country. Enforcement actions should consider organizational aspects of the trafficking networks, create a permanent presence in markets, and coordinate raids at multiple locations. Gaining public support could contribute to the success of these interventions, but it requires a change in human behaviors towards trafficking.
Domestic networks contribute to the diversity and composition of live wildlife trafficked in urban markets in Peru
Wildlife trade in Peru is often overlooked, with most research focusing on subsistence use of wild meats and live wildlife trafficking, particularly birds. Despite the illegality of wildlife extraction or possession without captive-bred origin, wildlife sales in urban markets have been common and accepted. This paper describes trends in the diversity and composition of live wildlife trafficked in urban markets in Peru. To do so, live wildlife sales in 16 Peruvian urban markets from 2007 to 2012 were surveyed. The findings show that historical legal action and enforcement have not prevented illegal wildlife trafficking in urban markets in Peru. Data also suggests that urban markets are connected in a structured network that provides consumers with a diverse selection of species from across the country. Enforcement actions should consider organizational aspects of the trafficking networks, create a permanent presence in markets, and coordinate raids at multiple locations. Gaining public support could contribute to the success of these interventions, but it requires a change in human behaviors towards trafficking.
