 Pangolins Are Protected
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Oct. 2, 2003 — Australia said Thursday that it made its biggest ever seizure of illegal medicines made from endangered species, hailing the haul in Sydney as a breakthrough in cracking the trade.
At least 160 kilograms (352 pounds) of medicines — including parts of tiger, snake and rhinoceros — were seized after two shipping containers were stopped in the first week of September.
Subsequent investigations by Customs and the Department of Environment and Heritage led to a residential property and a warehouse, said Customs Minister Chris Ellison.
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The government said this was the first major seizure of large commercial quantities of traditional medicines made from endangered species.
"Since 1999, the Australian government has seized more than 17,000 illegal wildlife imports and exports, but the vast bulk of them have been small imports brought in by travelers for personal use," it said in a statement.
"This successful seizure of large commercial quantities should serve as a warning that the Australian government is committed to eliminating the illegal trade in commodities made from endangered species."
Among the items seized were 40 kilograms of pangolin scales, taken from an estimated 120 animals. The pangolin, or scaly anteater, is under threat in Asia from hunting.
Charges are expected, with potential penalties of up to $110,000 ($74,800 U.S.) in fines and 10 years in prison under a law passed in 1999.
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Name: Malayan Pangolin (Manis javanica)
Primary Classification: Manidae (Pangolins) Location: Southeast Asia. Habitat: Mainly tropical forest. Diet: Termites and ants. Size: About 3 ft in length and 26 lbs in weight. Description: Body covered in large, flat, overlapping scales; conical head; small eyes; hidden ears; sticky tongue; short, powerful limbs; long tail. Cool Facts: When threatened, it can either roll itself into a ball, lash out with its razor sharp scales or spray a foul-smelling liquid at its enemy. Conservation Status: Lower Risk (Near Threatened) Major Threat(s): Habitat loss and poaching. What Can I Do?: Visit the African Wildlife Foundation for information on how you can help. |
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