Police advice on tackling the illegal trade of endangered species

Did you know it may be illegal to buy or sell items from any of the 30,000 most protected species such as rhinos, elephants, leopards and tigers without a certificate?

Police Scotland are working with partners to deliver a year-long commitment to raise awareness of the six priorities of wildlife crime.

Phase one is tackling the illegal trade of endangered species.

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) regulates the legal trade in species of birds, animals, and plants whose wild populations are threatened.

CITES currently regulates the trade in 30,000 species. The six current priorities are the illegal trade in: Raptors, Ivory, Medicinal & health products (including rhino horn), Reptiles, Sturgeon derivatives & extracts, Timber

The Control of Trade in Endangered Species (Enforcement) Regulations creates offences and allows CITES legislation to be enforced in the UK.

Keep your eyes open, if you suspect items are being sold illegally – report it.