Poaching is the illegal hunting or capturing of wild animals, usually associated with land use rights. It is the illegal trafficking and killing of wildlife, where animal or plant parts are often sold as trophies, "folk medicines," pets, or houseplants. Some key points about poaching include:
- Causes: Demand for products such as rhino horn, elephant ivory, and tiger products drives poaching, especially in Asia.
- Impacts: Poaching has devastating consequences for wildlife, leading to the risk of extinction for certain species. It has also been linked to armed militia groups in Africa suspected of trafficking ivory to fund their operations.
- Efforts to Stop Poaching: Many countries make poaching an offense punishable by prison or monetary fees, and conservation programs and game wardens are instituted to counteract the effects of poaching.
In summary, poaching is a significant threat to wildlife and biodiversity, driven by demand for animal and plant products in various markets, and efforts to combat it include legal measures and conservation programs.
