Illegal Wildlife Trade and Associated Myths

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For centuries, a majority of communities have believed in animal trading for personal gain. Consequently, the culture and traditions of these communities have revolved around animal products. More often than not, the wildlife captured is known to “yield benefits”, be it curing a chronic disease or getting rid of ‘Evil Eye’.

Today, we talk about two among several urban wildlife species that are illegally traded globally. 


First on the list are Pangolins. Pangolins are found in most parts of the country and are endangered.

We at PfA Bangalore have rescued quite a number of them to date. Pangolins are largely traded for their scales which are used in Chinese medicines. The scales of pangolins are made up of keratin, the protein our nails are made up of. These scales do not hold significant medicinal value. Apart from the scales, pangolins are sold around the world for meat. Recent research, although not conclusive, is considering pangolins as the cause of the coronavirus epidemic because humans are more in contact with pangolins due to rampant illegal trade than they are with bats. 


Slender Loris is another urban wildlife found in a few pockets of Bengaluru. We have rescued 67 of them after they are found injured or displaced. The endangered Slender Loris are nocturnal creatures. These big-eyed creatures steal everyone's heart with their cuteness! But this cuteness comes with a cost. Slender Loris is illegally traded and used in the despicable act of ‘Black Magic’ due to their shiny eyes. 

The bite of Slender Loris is toxic and to prevent any mishaps, their teeth are removed without any anaesthesia or hygiene, driving them into a risky life of contracting infections. 


Like Pangolins, various body parts of a Slender Loris are said to have “medicinal values”, this is totally false as far as science goes. In some cultures, Slender Lorises are supposed to cure leprosy, wounds, and bone injuries and give physical strength to women after childbirth. What is worse is that slender loris is used to ward off evil eyes and make love portions! 





A Pangolin Under Rehabilitation at PfA Wildlife Hospital


These superstitious beliefs have been around for centuries now and it is time we break them. The illegal trade of these animals is not only a blot on our administration but will also prove dangerous for the environment, and ultimately question our survival on this planet. It is important that we take action by questioning the laws and its enforcement, by bringing the government’s attention to this heinousness and participating actively in their welfare. 


After all, "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." - Mahatma Gandhi. 



You can also donate towards the treatment and rehabilitation of urban wildlife here - https://peopleforanimalsbangalore.org/donate


Author: Ms Praanjali Shukla, Volunteer at PfA Bangalore.

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