Mongabay · Climate & nature

Rise in Latin American Wildlife at Bangkok Markets

An increasing number of Latin American wildlife species are being found for sale in Bangkok, Thailand, indicating a growing exotic pet trade across continents.

Over the past two years, a rise in species like marmosets, capuchin monkeys, capybaras, and rare Amazonian fish has been observed in Thai markets. These animals are often crammed into small enclosures alongside domestic pets.

The supply chain frequently originates deep in the Amazon, with animals poached from countries like Colombia and Brazil. They are transported to hubs such as Iquitos, Peru, where fraudulent documentation can launder wild-caught specimens as legally traded, captive-bred stock.

From South America, the animals endure long, multi-leg flights, often exceeding 25 hours, to reach Asian markets. Social media platforms are also facilitating global connections between buyers and sellers in this trade.

This trade inflicts significant suffering on the animals, with many dying during transit due to extreme stress and confinement. A report suggests up to 70% of wild animals die within six weeks of capture.

Overcrowded conditions, high heat, and proximity to food stalls in markets like Bangkok's Chatuchak Market also elevate biosecurity and zoonotic disease risks. These market operations continue despite international criticism and past incidents, such as a fire that killed over 1,000 animals.

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