Recently, the field of wildlife conservation has issued a serious warning: due to the continued rise of the global pet turtle breeding boom, wild Indian star turtles are deeply mired in illegal trade, and their survival and population protection are facing unprecedented crises. The first in-depth study conducted by the World Animal Protection Association on the illegal trade of Indian star turtles over the past 15 years has yielded shocking results.
Research data shows that in the southeastern region of India alone, up to 55000 Indian star turtles are poached every year. What is even more worrying is that a new type of cross-border smuggling method is quietly emerging. Smugglers hide these precious wild animals in specially designed containers underneath the transportation of vegetables or fish food to evade supervision. During the long and harsh transportation process, many Indian star turtles unfortunately died on the way due to their inability to withstand enclosed and crowded environments. Even individuals who are fortunate enough to survive are at risk due to issues such as hypoxia, malnutrition, and excessive stress.
This research result has been published in the authoritative scientific journal "Journal for Nature Conservation". The study clearly indicates that Thailand has become the main destination for Indian star turtle smuggling and a core hub for illegal trade activities. The Indian star turtle has become a sought after pet collector worldwide due to its unique and striking star shaped radiating pattern on its shell. However, it is precisely this unique charm that has plunged them into an irreparable state.
The significant differences in relevant legal regulations between India and Thailand have provided opportunities for poachers. In India, the possession and sale of Indian star turtles are strictly prohibited by legislation and are considered illegal; In Thailand, this behavior is in a legal gray area and is basically in a legal state. This legal loophole made Indian star turtles the most numerous smuggled turtle species confiscated by the Thai government between 2008 and 2013.
Neil D'Cruze, head of the Wildlife Research Department at the World Wildlife Fund, said, "We are extremely shocked by the rampant illegal trade in turtles and the cruel methods used. As early as 15 years ago, experts issued a clear warning that if the domestic trade of Indian star turtles was not strictly restricted, it could very well evolve into organized international crime. Now, this worst-case scenario has become a reality
He further pointed out, "Currently, well-organized criminal gangs ruthlessly exploit the interests of impoverished communities in the source areas of Indian star turtles, while at the same time seeking huge profits from urban consumers in smuggling destinations such as Thailand. It is heartbreaking that most of the groups involved in poaching in the source areas and consumers buying pets in the destination areas are not aware of their actions and are gradually pushing Indian star turtles into the abyss of extinction
Gajender Sharma, the head of the World Animal Protection Association in India, added, "Since the 1970s, India has included the Indian star turtle in the category of key protected species. However, the loopholes in legal regulation in Asian countries such as Thailand have greatly weakened India's law enforcement efforts in combating illegal trade. This act of smuggling Indian star turtles into small enclosed spaces for export completely ignores animal welfare and is appalling
Faced with such a severe situation, wildlife conservation experts urgently call on governments of all countries to strengthen international cooperation, jointly improve relevant laws and regulations, increase law enforcement efforts, form a comprehensive and seamless regulatory network, severely crack down on the illegal trade of Indian star turtles, and create a glimmer of hope for the survival and reproduction of this endangered species.
(Editer：admin)
