Why is Amazonian wildlife turning up at a Bangkok market?
BANGKOK, Thailand — In the narrow alleys of Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market, the world’s wildlife is for sale. Ensnared in jungles, fished out of rivers and plucked from wetlands across the globe, hundreds of exotic species are packed onto transcontinental flights only to end up on display in what experts say ranks as one of the […]
In Bangkok's bustling Chatuchak Market, wildlife from around the world is on display, sold alongside other traditional market goods. This market, considered one of the largest in the world, is a hub for exotic species that have been captured in jungles, fished from rivers, and plucked from wetlands. Nestled between Thai tea and rice vendors, the "Pets" zone houses a diverse range of animals, both domestic and wild, often crammed into small cages.
The animals hailing from Africa include tortoises, foxes, parrots, cats, and pythons, while Asia and Oceania contribute masked palm civets, sugar gliders, squirrels, lorikeets, and parrots. Domestic animals such as raccoons, prairie dogs, iguanas, goats, cats, pigs, and others are also available.
Prices range widely, with masked palm civets costing about $1,450 each. Despite their small size, meerkats dressed in petting zoo attire are among the most popular. This market, a testament to the global pet trade, showcases the intersection of wildlife conservation and commerce.
Written by urgent.news from Mongabay's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
