Smuggling of rare Galapagos Iguanas!
Publications
Our latest manuscript provides insights and describes the behind the scenes of the illegal reptile’s trade
The latest paper titled Trafficking of Galápagos iguanas as an example of a global problem: CITES permits, laundering and the role of transit countries in Europe and Africa is finally out. Huge effort, involving 20 colleagues and authors and experts on the matter.
The paper’s highlights:
- We highlight the smuggling of Galápagos iguanas in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Pacific region.
- Wild caught Galapagos iguanas are laundered into international trade declared as captive-bred. The offspring of such animals receive CITES permits in violation of CITES regulations.
- Since 1975 all four iguana species have been listed on Appendix II of CITES.
- We notice inaccuracies documented in the CITES trade database.
- We urge CITES Parties to transfer all four species of Galápagos iguanas from CITES Appendix II to Appendix I.
To read the full manuscript use this link or the link in the reference section.
References
Auliya, M., Nijman, V., Altherr, S., Aguilera, W.T., Ariano-Sanchéz, D., Cantu, J.C., et al. 2025. Trafficking of Galápagos iguanas as an example of a global problem: CITES permits, laundering and the role of transit countries in Europe and Africa. Biological Conservation, 305: 111104.