Smuggled Insects and Other Animal News for November 22, 2024

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Proposes Giraffes be Classified as an Endangered Species

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed placing three subspecies of northern giraffe on the endangered species list. They also recommend listing two giraffe species from East Africa as threatened with specific conditions through a 4(d) rule. A 4(d) rule differentiates prohibitions between endangered and threatened species.

Under 4 (d) rule conditions, the reticulated and Masai giraffes will be listed as threatened. Meanwhile, the West African, Kordofan, and Nubian giraffes will be considered endangered. Factors influencing this new classification include poaching, habitat loss, and climate change.

The Service hopes the new classification will mitigate the effects of illegal hunting and trading of giraffes. Additionally, they aim to promote species conservation through more funding and financial assistance opportunities concerning giraffe conservation. Find out more about the proposal at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website here.

Peruvian Officials Arrest Man Who Had Hundreds of Protected Insects Strapped to His Body

On November 8, Peruvian officials arrested a South Korean man attempting to smuggle hundreds of protected exotic insects into a foreign country away from their habitats. Police described the man as having a “bulky” midsection, which raised suspicion and led to a search.

Authorities seized hundreds of insects stuck to the man’s stomach beneath his clothing. The species included 110 centipedes, nine bullet ants, and 320 tarantulas, which officials believe the suspect stole from the Peruvian Amazon. Tarantulas are listed as an endangered species, making this crime particularly severe.

Issues with illegal animal trafficking pervade worldwide underground markets. They also significantly affect natural areas native to protected animals. South America continues to be a hub for illegal wildlife trafficking due to its rare, exotic species.

Petco Love Crosses a Huge Milestone After Giving its Three Millionth Free Pet Vaccine

Petco’s non-profit branch, Petco Love, distributed its 3 millionth pet vaccine this month, marking an incredible moment for animal healthcare professionals and pet owners. The initiative, named “Vaccinated and Loved,” offers free pet vaccinations to owners and families unable to afford disease prevention.

The Vaccinated and Loved project seeks to create a more equitable world for pet owners, promote disease prevention, encourage pet healthcare, and give back to the communities that support Petco. Ms. Jo and her 17-year-old dog, Bentley, celebrated receiving the 3a millionth vaccine at Petco Love’s free vaccine clinic in their hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana. Find out more about Petco Love’s Vaccinated and Loved initiative here.