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 regulations, such animals are easily acquired over the internet, which promotes illegal trade.
Possession of protected animals is strictly prohibited in France and can be punished by up to three years in prison. Despite these strict laws, illegal wildlife trade is thriving, especially through online platforms. A study by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) from 2018 found that 80 to 90 percent of animals offered online are illegal.
The illegal wildlife trade is a global problem that endangers not only the affected animals but also public health. Wildlife markets with poor hygiene standards can contribute to the transmission of infectious diseases to humans. The WWF emphasizes that illegal wildlife trade poses a serious threat to biodiversity and must be urgently combated.
To counter this problem, the European Union has passed the Digital Services Act (DSA), which obliges online platforms to prevent illegal activities, including wildlife trade. 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 issue. It is therefore important that both authorities and the public are increasingly made aware of the dangers and consequences of this trade. Only through joint efforts can the protection of endangered species be ensured and illegal trade effectively combated.
French authorities have previously taken measures to combat illegal wildlife trade. For example, several people were prosecuted in Cahors in the south of the country for illegal trade with 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 thus crucial that both authorities and the public are more strongly alerted to the risks and consequences of this trade. Only through combined efforts can the protection of endangered species be guaranteed and illegal trade effectively fought.
In summary, illegal wildlife trade in France is a growing problem. Despite strict laws and international efforts, the trade in protected species remains a serious risk for biodiversity and public health. It is therefore essential that both authorities and the public are made more aware of this issue and take joint measures to combat illegal trade.
Sources
- STERN.de
- IFAW
- WWF