Think Twice – don’t buy wildlife souvenirs
Holiday souvenir trade drives animals close to extinction
Everyone enjoys bringing home souvenirs as a reminder of an enjoyable holiday, but did you know that some of these trinkets may have cost the life of a rare, endangered animal?
Some of the world's most iconic animals such as elephants, turtles, sharks and big cats are all being pushed towards extinction, partly due to rampant poaching to meet the demand for products such as souvenirs. Worrying estimates suggest that 20% of the world’s animal and plant species could be wiped out by 2030.
Many tourists buying endangered species souvenirs have no idea that they have done anything wrong. However, people coming home with such products risk heavy fines and in serious cases even lengthy jail terms, as the trade in many endangered species, eg elephants, tigers, turtles, is prohibited or strictly controlled.
Unfortunately, vast numbers of wildlife souvenirs are brought home every year by holidaymakers, thousands of which are seized by customs. Common items found in tourists' luggage include ivory trinkets and jewellery, turtle-shell accessories and products made from big cat skins.
Therefore, IFAW is encouraging tourists to Think Twice before buying souvenirs, to help protect endangered species. Remember if we don't buy, they won't die!
What to watch out for on holiday this year
In EUROPE, Greece is a big hub for tortoiseshell, ivory and coats made from cat furs, while stuffed native birds, corals and sponges are widespread in Turkey.
In Spain, monkeys such as squirrel monkeys and Barbary apes may be used as photographers’ ‘props’, with tourists paying to have their picture taken with the cute animal – especially in big beach resorts such as Benidorm. It is possible that baby chimps may also be used, despite this practice recently being made illegal. Greece, Israel and Turkey are other destinations where “beach monkeys” may be found.
Across ASIA, watch out for ivory carvings and jewellery, tortoiseshell, furs, shahtoosh, butterflies, corals and reptile skins. Live birds and reptiles are also commonly offered. Beware of traditional medicines containing derivatives of endangered species, such as bear bile wine and plasters containing leopard bone.
In the CARIBBEAN, it is common to see tortoiseshell, turtle oil, shells, corals (particularly black coral jewellery) and sharks' teeth, as well as reptile leather products and bird feathers. Live birds and reptiles are also commonly sold.
AFRICA: In many Southern African countries (such as South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Namibia and Zimbabwe, as well as in Egypt and Nigeria) ivory may be commonly found on sale. In Egypt, watch out for endangered spur-thighed tortoises sold either live, or converted into objects such as musical instruments or fire bellows, and also reptile and cat skins. Shells, corals, lizard and crocodile skins, ivory and bird of prey feathers may be found on sale in Kenya.
What you can do to have a wildlife friendly holiday
On holiday
• If you think that you have seen or been offered something made from an endangered species, inform the local police, your hotel management, tour operator and the local tourist board.
• Don’t take part in activities which cause cruelty to animals or fuel poaching – for example having your photograph taken with chained wild animals, trophy hunting, taking rides on sick, overworked horses, donkeys or camels, or visiting circuses or bullfights.
• Do not buy any live animals to bring home. The capture and transport of reptiles, birds and amphibians – many of them endangered – to supply the live pet trade results in 90% of animals dying. Many more die within their first year due to owners’ lack of knowledge about how to cater to their complex, special needs.
• In restaurants, don’t eat meat which you suspect comes from endangered species. It could be part of the huge international bushmeat trade, which is pushing many species, including gorillas, chimpanzees and forest elephants dangerously close to extinction. Animals used are generally killed in extremely cruel and unsanitary conditions, and some such meat has also been linked to serous diseases such as HIV, Ebola and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).
• While diving or snorkelling do not stand on, touch, or remove corals or shells. Corals provide critical food and habitat for reef life, are extremely sensitive, and can take decades to recover – if at all.
• Support sanctuaries and reserves which work to preserve endangered species and their habitats, and take part in non-consumptive activities such as nature treks and photographic safaris.
What should you take home with you?
Why not look for alternative souvenirs such as locally made handicrafts that benefit the local community? Or you could spend your money on donating to, or visiting, projects that work to conserve habitats and protect endangered species, such as animal sanctuaries.
At home
If you think that you have seen or been offered an endangered species product in the UK, contact your local police or, in the UK, Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Pass the word – tell your friends and family to avoid buying products made from endangered species in other countries.
The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) works around the world to protect wildlife and its habitats. With offices in 16 countries, including the UK, the organisation runs projects to help animals in 60 countries.
IFAW's ‘Think Twice’ campaign aims to change consumer behaviour and therefore reduce demand for wildlife souvenirs by raising the public’s awareness of the threat that this trade poses for wildlife conservation and animal welfare, and of the possible penalties for bringing home souvenirs from endangered species.
To find out more, visit: www.ifaw.org.
Author: IFAW
Date: 13 November 2008
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