Global trade in wildlife and wildlife parts : an educational curriculum
(Book - Regular Print)

Includes bibliographical references.

International trade in wildlife and wildlife parts exists on a massive scale. Iconic mammals such as elephants, rhinos and tigers are killed daily for fashion and traditional medicine. Reptiles, birds and primates languish in cramped cages to supply exotic pet collectors around the world, and hundreds end up served as bush meat to satisfy a growing human appetite. This demand for rare and endangered species not only impacts biodiversity, but also creates a myriad of environmental and national security concerns for many countries. Introductions of invasive species, transmission of disease from one species to another and the creation of organized crime syndicates involved in wildlife trafficking, are only a few of the negative consequences of this expanding and illicit industry. While national legislation and international treaties do exist to combat the decline of species threatened with extinction, the regulating mechanisms within these laws are often complex and difficult to enforce at a global scale. Unfortunately, few educational opportunities exist that are dedicated to producing graduates that are well versed in addressing the cultural and biological ramifications of wildlife trade in a global market. This project aims to create a curriculum that teaches all facets of global wildlife trade, including what and why animals and animal parts are trafficked, what environmental and biological impacts the trade produces, and what legislation presently governs wildlife trade.