NEWSDESK
Pangolins still being sold on Facebook
Facebook is allowing wildlife traffickers to openly sell pangolins, body parts and products on its platform, despite the animal’s threatened status and possible connection to the coronavirus outbreak. Facebook’s Community Standards prohibit the sale of endangered species or their parts, and their Commerce Policies go even further, banning listings that promote the sale of any animals or animal products. Read more: Tech Transparency Project
South African game-farming industry collapse
South Africa’s once-thriving wildlife-farming industry is under threat of collapse, largely due to the loss of revenue caused by the COVID-19 lockdown. The economic meltdown has seen revenue from hunting, game-viewing and wildlife sales evaporate, and most owners will not survive the estimated 2020 industry losses of R3,1bn (US$170m). Read more: Business Maverick
Criminal wildlife traffickers stockpiling for post COVID-19
Crime analysts have identified that criminal networks are still trafficking illegal wildlife products, albeit at a lower level during the COVID-19 lockdown. Traders are stockpiling large quantities of raw ivory in Vietnam, Lao PDR and Cambodia and pangolin scales in Vietnam. Another identified trend is a shift in transport methods, from air to road and sea. Read more: Wildlife Justice Commission
Subscribe to enjoy more stories like this – join our tribe
TRAVEL WITH AFRICA GEOGRAPHIC
Travel in Africa is about knowing when and where to go, and with whom. A few weeks too early / late and a few kilometres off course and you could miss the greatest show on Earth. And wouldn’t that be a pity? Search for your ideal safari here, or contact an Africa Geographic safari consultant to plan your dream vacation.
