A comparison of seizures of illegal wildlife between the US and the EU

Abstract

The trafficking of wildlife has emerged as a significant threat to plant and animal species worldwide. The illegal trade in wildlife involves the illicit procurement, transport, and distribution of animals, animal parts, and derivatives thereof in contravention of foreign or domestic regulations. The international illicit movement of plant and animal species directly affects global biodiversity, as well as hinders the economic and social development of countries via loss of flora and fauna, spread of invasive species, and introduction of health threats. Aside from the discrepancy in medicinal product seizures and likely seafood makeup, findings revealed substantial differences between four categories: corals, birds, the elephant genera, and garments. Comparing patterns of illegal wildlife imports into US and EU markets and drawing conclusions about the similarities and differences in these patterns can help devise useful policy recommendations. Various sociocultural patterns emerged through the data analysis. Specifically, the analysis revealed demand similarities in the US and EU for reptiles, mammals, mollusks, and fish.