At a global level, wildlife trafficking is the fourth most profitable illicit business and the second cause of biodiversity loss.
Mendoza is not exempt from this worrying reality, which is not only illegal but also a threat to these animals and to people, as many specimens can be disease vectors.
Efforts in Mendoza to Combat Wildlife Trafficking
In the last 10 years, the Wildlife Department of Mendoza has worked on more than 5,000 operations involving wildlife, rescuing over 16,000 animals from illegal trafficking. Many of these animals are taken to rescue centers in Mendoza for their rehabilitation and, if possible, their release.
However, some animals arrive in conditions that make it impossible for them to return to the wild and must be transferred to sanctuaries.
A recent example is the transfer of 35 wild birds to the Wildlife Conservation Center (CCVS) of San Luis, including 30 “King of the Forest” specimens, four red-crested cardinals, and a “Common Soldier”.
Birds, the Main Target of Trafficking
Adrián Gorrindo, head of the Wildlife Department of Mendoza, indicated that 75% of rescued animals are birds, with the main trafficked species being the Siete Cuchillos or picahuesos (Saltator aurantiirostris) and different species of goldfinches.
Additionally, 24% of rescued animals are mammals, highlighting the vizcacha (Lagostomus maximus) and the piche (Zaedyus pichiy), while the remaining 1% corresponds to amphibians and reptiles, with the land turtle being the most common.
Consequences and Risks of Wildlife Trafficking
The rescued animals often show signs of mistreatment, such as injuries on the forehead and beak from trying to escape cages, muscle atrophies, and leg injuries due to inadequate flooring.
These animals can also carry zoonotic diseases, putting at risk the people who acquire them.
Fines and Sanctions
The director of Biodiversity and Ecopark of Mendoza, Ignacio Haudet, explained that in cases of animal mistreatment and cruelty, judicial proceedings are initiated and fines of up to 6 million pesos can be applied. An example is the case of a trafficker of yellow cardinal sanctioned in General Alvear. The economic fines for protected birds are around 400,000 pesos per specimen.
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