In 2009, Illegal Trade of Endangered Animals Continues

We often hear of the millions made each year on the illegal trade of drugs, weapons, etc., but exotic (and often endangered) animals and animal parts? A recent story in the Los Angeles Times discusses this thriving market. “In single cases, agents have confiscated 26,000 sea horses, 428 queen conch shells, 985 Saiga antelope horns, 272 bull shark jaws, 88 tree snail shells, 40 leopard skins, 100 monocled cobra snake vertebra bracelets, 175 mounted cobras, 15 urns made from chambered nautiluses.” This subculture of crime and big dollars is also discussed in acclaimed journalist Peter Laufer’s new book, “The Dangerous World of Butterflies.” (Yes, even butterflies.) Read more.