CMY3702 ASSIGNMENT 1
SEMESTER 2 (COMPLETE
ANSWERS) DUE AUGUST
2025
FOR ASSISTANCE CONTACT
EMAIL:
, The Scourge of Illegal Wildlife Trade: Factors and a Case
Study from South Africa
The illegal trade in endangered species, often referred to as wildlife crime, represents a grave
threat to biodiversity, national security, and sustainable development. South Africa, a
megadiverse country home to a rich array of flora and fauna, finds itself at the epicentre of this
illicit trade, particularly for iconic species. This essay will provide a comprehensive discussion
of the multifaceted factors contributing to the illegal trade in endangered species in South Africa,
followed by a detailed case study of rhinoceros poaching to exemplify the devastating impact of
this crime.
Factors Contributing to the Illegal Trade in Endangered Species in South Africa
The drivers behind the illegal wildlife trade (IWT) in South Africa are complex and
interconnected, stemming from both demand and supply dynamics, exacerbated by various
enabling factors.
Demand-Side Factors:
The primary impetus for IWT is the persistent and often growing demand for wildlife products,
predominantly from Asian markets.
Traditional Medicine and Belief Systems: A significant driver is the use of animal parts
in traditional Asian medicine, where they are falsely believed to possess curative
properties for various ailments, from cancer to hangovers. Rhino horn, for instance, is
consumed as a detoxifier or fever reducer, despite being composed of keratin, the same
protein found in human fingernails. Pangolin scales are similarly sought after for their
perceived medicinal value.
Status Symbols and Luxury Goods: Beyond medicinal uses, certain wildlife products
serve as symbols of wealth, status, and power. Ivory carvings, exotic pet collections (e.g.,
rare reptiles, birds), and even rhino horn can be displayed as luxury items, reflecting
social standing among affluent consumers.
Exotic Pet Trade: The demand for rare and exotic pets, often driven by trends or social
media, leads to the illegal capture and trade of live animals, including reptiles (e.g.,
tortoises, snakes), birds, and even smaller mammals. These animals are often subjected to
inhumane conditions during transport, with high mortality rates.
Bushmeat Consumption: While less prominent in international syndicates, local
demand for bushmeat can contribute to the poaching of certain species, particularly in
areas adjacent to protected reserves, driven by subsistence needs or local culinary
preferences.
Supply-Side Factors:
South Africa's unique socio-economic landscape and geographical position contribute
significantly to the supply side of IWT.
SEMESTER 2 (COMPLETE
ANSWERS) DUE AUGUST
2025
FOR ASSISTANCE CONTACT
EMAIL:
, The Scourge of Illegal Wildlife Trade: Factors and a Case
Study from South Africa
The illegal trade in endangered species, often referred to as wildlife crime, represents a grave
threat to biodiversity, national security, and sustainable development. South Africa, a
megadiverse country home to a rich array of flora and fauna, finds itself at the epicentre of this
illicit trade, particularly for iconic species. This essay will provide a comprehensive discussion
of the multifaceted factors contributing to the illegal trade in endangered species in South Africa,
followed by a detailed case study of rhinoceros poaching to exemplify the devastating impact of
this crime.
Factors Contributing to the Illegal Trade in Endangered Species in South Africa
The drivers behind the illegal wildlife trade (IWT) in South Africa are complex and
interconnected, stemming from both demand and supply dynamics, exacerbated by various
enabling factors.
Demand-Side Factors:
The primary impetus for IWT is the persistent and often growing demand for wildlife products,
predominantly from Asian markets.
Traditional Medicine and Belief Systems: A significant driver is the use of animal parts
in traditional Asian medicine, where they are falsely believed to possess curative
properties for various ailments, from cancer to hangovers. Rhino horn, for instance, is
consumed as a detoxifier or fever reducer, despite being composed of keratin, the same
protein found in human fingernails. Pangolin scales are similarly sought after for their
perceived medicinal value.
Status Symbols and Luxury Goods: Beyond medicinal uses, certain wildlife products
serve as symbols of wealth, status, and power. Ivory carvings, exotic pet collections (e.g.,
rare reptiles, birds), and even rhino horn can be displayed as luxury items, reflecting
social standing among affluent consumers.
Exotic Pet Trade: The demand for rare and exotic pets, often driven by trends or social
media, leads to the illegal capture and trade of live animals, including reptiles (e.g.,
tortoises, snakes), birds, and even smaller mammals. These animals are often subjected to
inhumane conditions during transport, with high mortality rates.
Bushmeat Consumption: While less prominent in international syndicates, local
demand for bushmeat can contribute to the poaching of certain species, particularly in
areas adjacent to protected reserves, driven by subsistence needs or local culinary
preferences.
Supply-Side Factors:
South Africa's unique socio-economic landscape and geographical position contribute
significantly to the supply side of IWT.
