Happy World Wildlife Conservation Day from Piedmont Wildlife Center! This day celebrates the progress we’ve made towards protecting biodiversity through conservation efforts like the Endangered Species Act. It also spreads awareness of the threats that continue to face wildlife worldwide, especially the illegal trafficking of animals and animal products as pets and luxury goods.
Today, we're reflecting on how illegal wildlife trafficking threatens animals in North Carolina and beyond - and what steps we can take to makes sure eastern box turtles and other wildlife stay wild. Here are 3 easy ways to say "NO" to the illegal wildlife trade:
#1. oPT FOR CAPTIVE-BRED PETS
Want to care for an unusual pet like a snake, turtle, or parrot? Make sure the animal you're purchasing is captive-bred by an ethical breeder. (Or adopt from a responsible rescue like BeWild Reptile Rescue!) Never purchase an animal that was taken from the wild, as this hurts wild populations and increases demand for trafficked animals.
#2. Keep wildlife Wild
Remember: Opossums, squirrels, and owls may be cute, but they aren't pets! Not only is it illegal to keep them in North Carolina without a permit, but these animals require specialized care that most households can't provide. If you find a wild animal that needs help, contact a licensed rehabilitator like Our Wild Neighbors instead of trying to care for it yourself.
**Please note that Piedmont Wildlife Center focuses on education and conservation and is NOT equipped to accept, treat, transport, or raise injured or orphaned wildlife. If you are in the Durham-Raleigh-Chapel Hill area, please contact Our Wild Neighbors (919-428-0896) or one of these specialized organizations:
Carolina Raptor Center (birds of prey): 704-875-6521
Carolina Waterfowl Rescue (ducks, geese, other birds): 704-286-6330
NC State Turtle Rescue Team (turtles, other reptiles): 919-397-9675
You can find additional resources at Animal Help Now and the NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
#3. rESPECT THE MIGRATORY BIRD TREATY ACT
Did you find a hawk, eagle, or owl feather in the woods? Admire it... but don't take it home. In the USA, birds of prey are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It's illegal to possess any part of them without a permit, feathers included.
Want more ways to help protect wildlife? Get involved with our Triangle Turtle Trekkers citizen science project to help us monitor declining eastern box turtle populations in North Carolina! With your help, we can protect wildlife and their habitats for generations to come.
