Paris – 26.05.2026: In France, the demand for exotic animals such as lynxes, fennecs, and servals is increasing. These animals are protected in the wild and may not be kept in captivity. Despite these legal provisions, such animals are easily obtainable via the internet, which promotes illegal trade.
The possession of protected animals is strictly prohibited in France and can be punished with up to three years imprisonment. Despite these strict laws, illegal wildlife trade is flourishing, especially through online platforms. A 2018 study by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) showed that 80 to 90 percent of the animals offered online are illegal.
Illegal wildlife trade is a global problem that not only endangers the affected animals but also threatens public health. Wildlife markets with low hygiene standards can contribute to the transmission of infectious diseases to humans. WWF emphasizes that illegal wildlife trade poses a serious threat to biodiversity and must be urgently combated.
To address this issue, the European Union has adopted the Digital Services Act (DSA), which obliges online platforms to prevent illegal activities, including the trade in wild animals. This legislation aims to strengthen the responsibility of platform operators and curb illegal trade on the internet.
Despite these legal measures, illegal wildlife trade remains a serious problem. It is therefore important that both authorities and the public become more aware of the dangers and consequences of this trade. Only through joint efforts can the protection of endangered species be ensured and illegal trade be effectively combated.
French authorities have already taken measures in the past to combat illegal wildlife trade. For example, several people were brought to court in Cahors in the south of the country for illegal trade in protected birds. This trial is considered the largest of its kind in France.
Despite these efforts, illegal wildlife trade remains a serious problem. It is therefore important that both authorities and the public become better aware of the risks and consequences of this trade. Only through joint efforts can the protection of endangered species be guaranteed and illegal trade be effectively addressed.
In summary, it can be stated that illegal wildlife trade in France is a growing problem. Despite strict laws and international efforts, the trade in protected species continues to pose a serious risk to biodiversity and public health. It is therefore crucial that both authorities and the public become more aware of this problem and take measures together to combat illegal trade.
Sources
- STERN.de
- IFAW
- WWF