If you really love them, you'll let them be.
You are living at home, in your community, where everything is familiar. You know how to survive and you are content. One day, not knowing why, you’re ripped away and taken on a harrowing journey. Everything is strange: the food, the habitat, the neighbors—nothing seems right. You don’t know how to survive and you miss your family.
You are frightened and powerless.
This is a tragic reality for many wildlife trafficking victims—wild animals forced on harsh journeys; sadly, destined for life as an exotic pet—a life they never wanted and a life that puts them and the people they encounter at risk.
Sloths, turtles, salamanders, parrots, songbirds, and many others endure this cruel and dangerous trade.
Learn more about the animals most at risk
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Only a few thousand lemurs are left in the wild. Click the image to learn more. © Jessica Boklan
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There are 35 species of parrots that reside in the New World. Click the image to learn more. © IFAW
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The Barbary macaque is Europe’s only wild primate. Click the image to learn more. © IFAW
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Capuchins are one of the most common primates sold as pets. Click the image to learn more. © IFAW
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Hyacinth macaws were devastated by illegal trade. Click the image to learn more.
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Marmosets are native to South America. Click the image to learn more.
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Rhinoceros iguanas are endemic to the Caribbean. Click the image to learn more.
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The diamondback terrapin is at risk of extinction in the wild. Click the image to learn more.
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The African grey parrot is extinct in several range states. Click the image to learn more.
The Illegal Pet Trade:
Meet some of the victims and read their confiscation stories.
Meet Star and Bayu
Bali Myna
Meet Mateo
Black-Handed Spider Monkey
Box Turtle
Meet J