Colombia holds one of the most impressive records in the world: it ranks second in biodiversity, just behind Brazil, which is a country 7.5 times larger than Colombia. However, this prestigious position comes with a darker side—the illegal wildlife trade. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), this illegal trade is one of the world’s fourth most profitable underground businesses.
Fortunately, thanks to a new wave of political leadership with a stronger commitment to environmental protection, a law is being pushed forward that will put an end to the trade of all wildlife within Colombia.
Currently, Colombian authorities are ramping up operations at transportation terminals and other key areas to stop individuals who are illegally transporting animals, especially birds, reptiles, and mammals. These activities tend to peak during holidays and vacation periods when the movement of people between regions is at its highest. One of the most active and vigilant environmental secretariats in Colombia is in Bogotá, the capital, where efforts are focused on monitoring and regulating illegal wildlife trade, especially in birds and other animals that people often buy indiscriminately as pets or, worse, for resale both within and outside the country.
As part of its strategy to combat these crimes, Bogotá’s Secretariat of Environment has set up a communication channel for citizens to report any suspicious activities related to wildlife. This initiative is one of the main ways to reduce these harmful practices in the capital. It’s our hope that all major cities across the country follow suit, as the entry of illegal animals into Bogotá largely depends on the movement of species throughout Colombia’s various regions.
If you want to learn more about the bill that aims to prohibit the possession, circulation, and commercialization of wildlife in Colombia, check out the link we’ve shared. It provides all the details about the law that has been in the works since July 2023.
Remember, if you have birds in a cage, you’re not keeping a pet—you’re imprisoning a little animal! Learn more about the bill and how it aims to protect wildlife by clicking the link above. Let’s all do our part to ensure these beautiful creatures are free and safe!