A couple in Majorca has been arrested for allegedly breeding and selling exotic cats online, including endangered species such as white tigers, pumas, and clouded leopards. The Civil Guard conducted a raid after discovering that the couple was not only breeding but also marketing these rare animals via social media platforms. The operation led to the rescue of 19 felines from their property, comprising a caracal, two servals, and 16 hybrid cats.
**Couple Arrested in Majorca for Illegal Breeding of Exotic Cats**
**Couple Arrested in Majorca for Illegal Breeding of Exotic Cats**
Spanish authorities apprehend a couple involved in the online sale of endangered feline species, highlighting a growing threat in wildlife trafficking.
The Civil Guard expressed concerns that this incident represents only a small part of a larger global trafficking network, implicating breeders, transporters, and veterinarians across multiple countries. Most of the cats sold were reportedly smuggled into the European Union from countries like Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine, and often went undetected thanks to falsified documentation.
The couple's social media activities were said to be prolific, with inquiries from potential buyers around the globe. In addition to the felines, they were found to have listed other exotic animals like hyenas and desert lynxes for sale. This investigation aligns with a broader crackdown on wildlife trafficking that began earlier this year. The rescued animals are currently being housed at the Son Servera Safari Zoo in Majorca, with plans for possible relocation to a nearby rescue center still being discussed.
The rise in demand for exotic cats has been notably influenced by social media, where these animals are often perceived as status symbols. However, experts from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) warn that such animals are challenging to care for and can display aggressive behavior, leading to many being abandoned once the novelty wears off.
As Europe continues to be a focal point for the illegal exotic wildlife trade, this case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against animal trafficking and the urgent need for increased enforcement and conservation efforts.
The couple's social media activities were said to be prolific, with inquiries from potential buyers around the globe. In addition to the felines, they were found to have listed other exotic animals like hyenas and desert lynxes for sale. This investigation aligns with a broader crackdown on wildlife trafficking that began earlier this year. The rescued animals are currently being housed at the Son Servera Safari Zoo in Majorca, with plans for possible relocation to a nearby rescue center still being discussed.
The rise in demand for exotic cats has been notably influenced by social media, where these animals are often perceived as status symbols. However, experts from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) warn that such animals are challenging to care for and can display aggressive behavior, leading to many being abandoned once the novelty wears off.
As Europe continues to be a focal point for the illegal exotic wildlife trade, this case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against animal trafficking and the urgent need for increased enforcement and conservation efforts.
