Animal Thefts From Zoo’s Increase!
posted in Amazing Facts, Animal Species, Latest News |
Usually in the night, thieves with wire cutters and cages are taking away endangered species from the zoos and private collections throughout the world. Last month alone around 50 exotic birds were stolen in the United Kingdom from a private collection. In December a pair of African gray parrots were missing from the Australian Adelaide Zoo.
Last year a rare chuckwalla lizard disappeared from the Oklahoma City Zoo in the United States. In England around 5 Zoo’s were targeted last year by a criminal gang who took some 200 animals, most of which were exotic birds, small primates, and rare reptiles.
Black Market
These stolen animals usually end up in pet trade, roadside zoos, or private collections. Others are used in breeding programs. Money is the main motive. Because these animals are rare or endangered, they fetch a very good price in the black market.
Better Security
Facilities are now increasing security to stop break-ins. The effort comes with a high price tag. Now it has become extremely essential to increase security. In addition to installing camera’s and hiring more security personnel, identification microchips are also being used. The European zoos are not the only ones facing the problem of thefts. American Zoo’s also have been facing the same problem.