• Geography -> Climate and environment

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What are the most commonly trafficked animals and plants?

Jalissa McCuish

Well, my dear friends, let's talk about something that we don't usually discuss in our daily conversations. Today, we're going to discuss the most commonly trafficked animals and plants! Yes, you heard that right! We are going wild!

Trafficking is an abhorrent act of illegal trade of living species. The wildlife trade has fatal consequences not only for these plants and animals but for the entire ecosystem. Many species are endangered and can risk extinction. But alas, this isn't a biology class. Let's talk about our favorite trafficked animals and plants.

Starting with the plants, we all are familiar with the vast variety of flora around us. But do you know what is the most trafficked plant species? It’s timber. Yep, the trees around your house that provide you shade and oxygen. It’s been reported that up to 30% of the world's wood is obtained illegally, and trafficking in wood is one of the primary sources of funding for organized crime syndicates. So, next time you are snapping a photo of a mesmerizing wood sculpture, think about the forest it came from.

Our second honorable mention is Orchids, and not just any orchid, the fantastic Slipper Orchids. These beauties are found mostly in Southeast Asia, and their mesmerizing colors and intricate patterns on their leaves make them a popular collectors' item. Sadly, this gorgeousness comes with a cost. The trade of slipper orchids has been illegalized, but illegal traders continue to thrive because of the high demand in the black market.

Moving on to some gnarly animals, the first on the list has to be the African bush elephant. These intelligent creatures are trafficked primarily for their ivory tusks. And as heartbreaking as it may sound, these majestic beasts are losing their lives because of the human obsession for ornamental ivory crafts. It’s a major concern, and international efforts have been taken to protect them.

Next on the list is a pet lover’s nightmare- exotic birds. These richly colored birds are illegally trafficked and smuggled across international borders. Some birds are trained to mimic human speech! The extortion of these birds has created many problems, including species endangerment and thinning populations.

Imagine having a world without these wild animals and exotic plants. It sure would be a bland and lifeless one. So, the next time you come across wildlife, remember their tragedy and the importance of preservation. Let us create a safer environment for all living beings because in the end, they are not just animals or plants, but they are a part of us.