The 1st step you can do is to acknowledge that illegal wildlife trade is an issue and that you can play a role to not support the demand driving this illicit trade. Your responsibility is the start to bigger action.
• Be Informed
What is illegal in Singapore?
The sale or advertisement of sale of:
- Tiger/bear/pangolin parts (usually found in TCM/jewellery shops)
- Elephant Ivory products (usually in souvenir shops)
- Rhinoceros horn products (usually in TCM shops)
- All reptiles (except red-eared slider terrapin and Malayan box turtle)
- All primates (e.g. macaques, lorises).
- Wild cats (e.g. leopard cats).
- All other small mammals (e.g. squirrels, sugar gliders, hedgehogs).
Avoid:
- Eating wild meats
- Keeping wild animals as pets
- Purchasing wild animals with the aim of rescuing them –> creates demand
- Purchasing souvenirs made from endangered animal parts
Do:
- Check the ingredients list of TCM before purchase (e.g. Saiga Antelope horn – commonly written as Cornu Saiga Tataricae)
- Ask questions before purchase (e.g. legally sourced)
(Adapted from ACRES)
• Lend Your Eyes
Spot any shop or online website/advertisement selling illegal wildlife products?
Use the Wildlife Witness App:
Wildlife Witness | Help stop illegal wildlife trade
Download now:
Apple App Store
Google Play Store
OR
Call the following organisations:
ACRES Wildlife Crime Hotline: 97837782 (24 hours)
Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) hotline: 1800-476 1600 or 6805 2992
Airport Police: 6546 0000
• Take a Pledge
Making a public commitment is one of the best ways to encourage a shift in behavior.
Pledge to not consume or purchase any illegal wildlife products now!
• Spread the Message
Discuss and share this issue with your family and friends, this can be done face-to-face or just simply by sharing this blog on social media.