Mongabay · Climate & nature

Maleo Birds Targeted in Emerging International Wildlife Trafficking

Critically endangered maleo birds from Indonesia are increasingly targeted by traffickers, with recent seizures indicating a growing trade in live juvenile birds, primarily for India's exotic pet market.

A study documented three seizures in 2024 involving 25 live juvenile maleos en route to or in India. These protected birds are trafficked for exotic pets, with traffickers exploiting families to evade detection.

Maleos face threats from habitat loss and nest raiding. This illegal trade in live birds is a new, serious threat to their survival, with numbers dwindling to 4,000-7,000 breeding pairs.

This is the first study to document maleos in illicit international commerce. Researchers found no legal trade, suggesting the commerce is entirely illegal. Seized birds were young, possibly from hatcheries.

Conservationists suggest young birds may come from Indonesian hatcheries, potentially supplying traffickers. This practice could exacerbate pressures on the species.

Researchers urge authorities in India, Indonesia, and Thailand to increase surveillance and enforcement. They also call for a mechanism to repatriate seized birds to Indonesia for potential release.

Repatriation is complex, with some birds remaining in transit countries. The study also noted a lack of successful prosecutions for trafficking these birds in Indonesia.

Though only 25 birds were seized, losses are significant for this endangered population. Researchers recommend updating conservation status to include international trade as a threat.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.