The Illicit Trade of Australian Reptiles: A Global Market

The global trade of Australian reptiles and amphibians, despite a 1982 export ban, is thriving. New research has found 163 reptile and seven frog species sold overseas, primarily in the U.S. and Europe. Online trade surveillance methods are essential for monitoring and protecting these species from illegal smuggling.

Adelaide, Sep 11 (The Conversation) – The global trade in exotic pets from foreign countries, particularly Australian species, continues to thrive despite the 1982 ban on commercial export of live native animals from Australia.

New research has uncovered that 163 Australian reptile species and seven frogs are being traded as pets overseas. This accounts for 16% of all Australian reptiles and 3% of frogs. Seizure records reveal some species are still illegally taken from the wild, making advanced online monitoring crucial.

Our research used web scrapers and machine learning to trace the sale of these species across 152 websites and 27 social media platforms, especially in the U.S. and Europe. The findings showed popular species like bearded dragons, goannas, and various geckos. Ongoing monitoring and international cooperation are critical to ensuring the survival of these species.

(With inputs from agencies.)