Illegal wildlife trade remains serious threat as demand for rare-animal pets increases

Illegal wildlife trade remains serious threat as demand for rare-animal pets increases
By PRATCH RUJIVANAROM 
THE NATION

BANGKOK: -- ILLEGAL TRADE in wildlife was the most serious threat that rare animals in Thailand faced this year and the issue is expected to remain a major concern in the upcoming year, the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department and experts have said.

News about wild animals, both good and bad, made the headlines from time to time in 2016, and both the authorities and academics have shared a common concern on illegal wildlife trade, especially as more people are interested in keeping wild animals as pets. 

Also, a large number of deaths among rare animals and threat to the survival of several species from the loss of habitat, pollution and illegal hunting have been a great concern over the past year. 

Department deputy director-general Adisorn Noochdumrong said the black market for wild animals was the biggest problem this year, as it is very difficult for officers to track down the sellers and arrest them.

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