empowering frontline officers to rescue animals from wildlife trafficking

we’re bringing live animals to the forefront of global anti-trafficking efforts

Problem

Live wild animals are being illegally captured, transported and sold at a shocking rate. Often, the animals targeted by illegal traffickers are threatened or protected species. Law enforcement agencies combatting this illegal trade are in urgent need of improved support to handle and care for seized live animals.  

Since current efforts to combat the illegal wildlife trade are largely focused on wildlife products, limited attention is provided to live animals rescued from trafficking. Live seizures and confiscations are an underrepresented part of combatting the illegal wildlife trade.  

Humane, safe handling and care of wildlife are critical to helping reduce health risks to both people and animals, and remedy negative impacts on biodiversity and animal welfare. 

Solution

The U.S. Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) has granted funding to IFAW for the Confiscated Animals – Rescue & Enforcement Project (CARE).  

Over the next two years, the project aims to provide a global framework of resources for government agencies to handle and care for animals seized in trade, and empower frontline officers in the Republic of Indonesia, the Republic of the Congo and the Co‑operative Republic of Guyana.  

Each of these countries is significantly impacted by the illegal wildlife trade and law enforcement officers frequently confiscate live animals. To accomplish the project’s goals, we are working with Jakarta Animal Aid Network (JAAN), the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI), and Legal Atlas to implement an innovative and holistic on-the-ground approach to combat illegal wildlife trafficking. We are also developing the solutions needed to ensure that confiscated animals are treated humanely and safely and receive the best care while in custody.  

Our goal is to rescue animals from the illegal wildlife trade and prosecute trafficking crimes in a way that prioritises humane outcomes for wildlife.