Wildlife at Risk in Venezuela Amid Growing Trafficking Crisis

Along Venezuelan highways, drivers encounter parrots, monkeys, and other wild animals – some part of an alarming illegal trade that goes on openly, often right in sight of local police. Many Venezuelans, struggling to survive amid the country’s deep economic turmoil, may not realize that roadside wildlife sales are illegal. Even authorities appear indifferent; as one Venezuelan source put it, “People sell wildlife on the streets, right next to the police.”

As Venezuela faces one of the world’s most severe economic crises, the demand for exotic wildlife has spiked. The crisis has pushed people into survival mode, sometimes turning to poaching and selling wild species. This practice not only threatens Venezuela’s rich biodiversity but has also drawn the attention of criminal groups who see wildlife trafficking as an easy way to make money. Birds like scarlet macaws, dolphins, and even jaguars are targeted, with China being a significant consumer market for these illegal animal products.

Efforts to curb trafficking are challenging due to political restrictions on NGOs and Conservation efforts. In August, Venezuela introduced a law restricting NGO operations, which critics argue limits Conservation groups’ ability to protect endangered wildlife. “The government doesn’t allow for the creation of NGOs,” says Joao Leite de Souza, a conservationist, adding that resources from outside the country are also limited.

Some conservationists have found creative ways to protect endangered species. Álvaro Velasco, working with local communities, encourages people to protect Orinoco crocodile eggs by offering compensation for hatchlings rather than eggs. His efforts have helped boost local crocodile populations, while other private initiatives, like Deforsa’s work with jaguar Conservation, have made strides in protecting Venezuela’s unique ecosystems.

However, critics warn that unless government corruption and alliances with traffickers end, sustainable change will be difficult. Conservation leader Cristina Burelli stresses that strengthening institutions is crucial for meaningful action but believes real change is unlikely under the current government.

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