A couple in Majorca has been arrested for their alleged involvement in the illegal breeding and selling of exotic cats, including protected species like white tigers and pumas. The arrest follows a police raid that uncovered 19 rare felines at their residence, highlighting the alarming rise in the global trafficking of wildlife.
Couple Arrested in Majorca for Illegal Exotic Cat Breeding
Couple Arrested in Majorca for Illegal Exotic Cat Breeding
Spanish authorities crack down on illegal wildlife trade as a couple is apprehended for breeding and selling rare feline species online.
In a significant operation, the Civil Guard police seized various exotic cats from a couple’s home on the island of Majorca, suspected of selling these rare felines through social media platforms. The operation revealed the couple operated within a larger trafficking ring, with ties to international wildlife smuggling across Europe.
Authorities discovered 19 cats, including a caracal, two servals, and 16 hybrid felines, prompting concerns over the illegal exotic animal trade. Reports indicate that many of these animals were trafficked into the European Union from countries like Russia and Ukraine via Poland, utilizing falsified documentation for distribution.
The Civil Guard emphasized the couple's social media presence, which connected them with potential buyers from various countries. As the black market for exotic wildlife continues to flourish, environmental organizations warn of the increasing demand for these animals, often driven by perceptions of wealth and status.
Among the animals seized was a clouded leopard listed for €60,000 ($68,000) and advertisements for other exotic species, including hyenas and desert lynxes. Following the raid, the rescued animals have been temporarily housed at Son Servera Safari Zoo in Majorca and may soon be relocated to a rescue facility in Alicante.
The surge in the illegal trade of exotic cats raises significant concerns, as the animals typically require extensive care and space, often leading to abandonment when owners cannot meet their needs. The Spanish Civil Guard warns that these animals, known for their aggressive behavior, can pose risks to both people and other pets.
This operation is part of a larger investigation into wildlife trafficking that began last March, with at least one other individual also under scrutiny for selling exotic species online. The urgent need to address and regulate the wildlife trade remains a pressing issue in Europe and worldwide.
Authorities discovered 19 cats, including a caracal, two servals, and 16 hybrid felines, prompting concerns over the illegal exotic animal trade. Reports indicate that many of these animals were trafficked into the European Union from countries like Russia and Ukraine via Poland, utilizing falsified documentation for distribution.
The Civil Guard emphasized the couple's social media presence, which connected them with potential buyers from various countries. As the black market for exotic wildlife continues to flourish, environmental organizations warn of the increasing demand for these animals, often driven by perceptions of wealth and status.
Among the animals seized was a clouded leopard listed for €60,000 ($68,000) and advertisements for other exotic species, including hyenas and desert lynxes. Following the raid, the rescued animals have been temporarily housed at Son Servera Safari Zoo in Majorca and may soon be relocated to a rescue facility in Alicante.
The surge in the illegal trade of exotic cats raises significant concerns, as the animals typically require extensive care and space, often leading to abandonment when owners cannot meet their needs. The Spanish Civil Guard warns that these animals, known for their aggressive behavior, can pose risks to both people and other pets.
This operation is part of a larger investigation into wildlife trafficking that began last March, with at least one other individual also under scrutiny for selling exotic species online. The urgent need to address and regulate the wildlife trade remains a pressing issue in Europe and worldwide.
