Wildlife Crimes

The Caribbean’s rich biodiversity is threatened by a range of illicit activities. Addressing these crimes is essential not only for conserving biodiversity and supporting the rule of law, but also for safeguarding animal welfare, public health, and human well-being.

Prevalent Wildlife Crimes in the Wider Caribbean

  • Illegal Agricultural Clearance

    Unauthorised clearing of land for crops or livestock, causing habitat loss and increased human-wildlife conflict.

  • Illegal Fishing

    Illicit exploitation of marine resources, targeting protected species, and undermining fisheries and protected areas.

  • Illegal Human-Wildlife Conflict

    Unpermitted killing or displacement of animals deemed “pests,” often leading to broader ecological imbalance.

  • Illegal Hunting

    Unsanctioned targeting of wildlife, including threatened or endangered species and specimens within protected areas.

  • Illegal Introduction of Species

    Unauthorised introduction of non-native plants or animals, threatening native biodiversity and causing economic damage.

  • Illegal Jewellery & Art Making

    Crafting items from coral, turtle shells, or other protected materials threatens species and exploits fragile habitats.

  • Illegal Land Settlement

    Prohibited human encroachment into critical habitats, leading to deforestation and loss of biodiversity.

  • Illegal Logging

    Unauthorised felling of trees for timber or charcoal production, resulting in deforestation and habitat fragmentation.

  • Illegal Mining

    Unpermitted mineral extraction, often involving harmful byproducts that contaminate water supplies and destroy wildlife habitats.

  • Illegal Pet Keeping

    Illicit keeping of wild animals, undermining animal welfare and public health and fuelling unsustainable demand for species.

  • Illegal Pollution

    Unlawful release of hazardous materials into natural environments, degrading habitats, poisoning wildlife, and endangering public health.

  • Illegal Transportation & Sales

    Trafficking of wildlife and natural resource products fuels black markets and accelerates species decline.

  • Illegal Wild Meat Consumption

    Prohibited consumption of wild animal meat poses health risks, depletes wildlife populations, and can disrupt entire ecosystems.

  • Theft of Genetic Resources

    Unauthorised extraction and commercialisation of genetic and biological materials, often without sharing benefits with local communities.

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