Stolen, smuggled and suffering – native wildlife campaign

Posted on 22/10/2024

South Australia’s unique native wildlife is under constant threat by illegal ownership and trafficking. Some people may not realise that keeping native animals without a permit is against the law, putting species and ecosystems at risk.

To combat this alarming problem, we’ve launched the “Stolen, Smuggled, and Suffering” campaign in partnership with the Department for Environment and Water to encourage people to report illegal activities anonymously.

Report illegal activity - make an anonymous report here.

Why is it important to protect native wildlife?
Native animals like reptiles, birds, and marsupials play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of our environment. Illegal wildlife ownership not only harms individual animals but can also disrupt ecosystems, spread diseases and even contribute to species extinction. By reporting illegal activity, you help protect these vulnerable animals and preserve South Australia’s natural heritage.

Know the law
It is illegal to keep native wildlife without a permit in South Australia. Permits are essential for ensuring the wellbeing of these animals, regulating their care and protecting native species. If you or someone you know is keeping native wildlife without an appropriate permit, it’s time to take action.

How can you help?
If you know or suspect that someone is illegally keeping or trading native wildlife, you can share it with Crime Stoppers – anonymously if that’s your choice. Your information can help disrupt illegal activities and protect our precious wildlife.

Species commonly at risk
In South Australia, several species of native wildlife are commonly trafficked or illegally kept as pets, including:

Reptiles
• Shingleback Lizards: Popular due to their hardiness and slow-moving nature.
• Bearded Dragons: Often trafficked due to their relatively easy-care requirements and docile temperament.
• Blue-tongued Skinks: Valued for their unique appearance and calm nature.
• Pythons (such as Carpet and Woma Pythons): These non-venomous snakes are often illegally kept due to their striking appearance and relatively low maintenance needs.

 

Birds
• Cockatoos: Species like the Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo, Red-tailed Black Cockatoo and Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo are targeted for their beauty and intelligence.
• Native Parrots: Species such as the Regent Parrot, which is nationally threatened under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, are often targeted for the illegal pet trade. The Regent Parrot is particularly vulnerable due to habitat destruction, especially the loss of Red Gum trees, which are vital for its survival. This ongoing threat makes the illegal trafficking of such species even more damaging to conservation efforts.

 

Marsupials
• Sugar Gliders: These small, nocturnal marsupials are sometimes trafficked due to their exotic appearance and behaviour.
• Possums: Particularly the Common Brushtail Possum and Ringtail Possum, are illegally kept, though they have specific needs in captivity.

Frogs
• Green Tree Frogs: These amphibians are often trafficked or kept as pets because of their distinctive looks and ease of care in captivity.

 

All of these species are protected under South Australian law and keeping them without a proper permit is illegal.

Trafficking not only endangers individual animals but can have serious consequences for the species’ conservation and overall biodiversity in the state.

Crime Stoppers has a proven record of protecting the community, and your tip could be the key to stopping the illegal wildlife trade.

Recognise the signs of suspicious activity involving wildlife

Protecting wildlife starts with awareness. Illegal wildlife trafficking often occurs right in front of us, disguised as normal activity. Here’s what to watch for:

Unusual sales or transactions

• Wildlife or animal parts being sold in markets, online forums, or social media platforms.
• Items like exotic pets, ivory, skins, or feathers that seem suspiciously cheap or unverified.
• Sellers who avoid sharing documentation or permits.

Strange activity in natural areas

• Individuals acting secretively or carrying tools like traps, snares, or nets in wildlife-rich areas.
• Groups accessing restricted areas or displaying unusual interest in protected habitats.
• Vehicles parked near reserves, conservation parks or forests at odd hours.

Transport of animals or parts

• Unusual crates, boxes, or containers emitting noises or strong odours.
• Exotic animals being transported in unsafe or inappropriate conditions.
• People visibly handling animal parts in luggage, vehicles, or shipping containers.

Online behaviour

• Posts offering exotic animals or wildlife products for sale without permits.
• Suspicious language like “DM for price” or “private collection” on listings.
• Photos or videos displaying illegal activities, such as handling protected species.

Signs of animal distress

• Animals kept in crowded or poor conditions, appearing stressed or injured.
• Exotic pets seen in inappropriate settings, such as chained in a backyard or displayed at events.

What you can do

If you notice any of these signs, trust your gut and report it anonymously to Crime Stoppers. You don’t have to confront anyone or risk your safety. Your tip can help protect endangered species and help catch wildlife traffickers.

You have the option to remain completely anonymous when you share information with Crime Stoppers. Together, we can fight wildlife crime and protect our natural heritage.

Report illegal activity - make an anonymous report here.

To ensure you remain anonymous when you make a report online, do not include your name, address, phone number, relationship to the offender or any other information that could identify you.

We don’t log the IP of any device you use so you can do the right thing without fear of being identified.

If you do opt to share your details, then a DEW investigator may contact you if more information is required.

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