Togo’s growing belief-based use trade sweeping up avian biodiversity, says study
One of West Africa’s largest markets selling wildlife for belief-based uses has expanded rapidly over the past decade, according to a recent study. Researchers surveyed the Akodessewa Fetish Market in Lomé, Togo, between 2022 and 2024 and found a booming trade in live birds and their parts. They registered more than twice the number of […]
A recent study has revealed a concerning surge in the trade of avian biodiversity at one of West Africa's largest markets, the Akodessewa Fetish Market in Lomé, Togo. Conducted between 2022 and 2024, the research found that the market has expanded rapidly over the past decade, with more than twice the number of stands selling wildlife and over four times the number of bird species compared to surveys conducted in 2016.
The study identified 82 bird species from 36 families being traded, with hornbills being the most traded group. Notably, the larger the bird, the more likely it was to be sold, and species listed as restricted or regulated under CITES were also found to be on offer. The researchers noted that the growth of the market appears to be contrary to expectations, suggesting that existing restrictions are not effectively curbing the trade.
Brief written by urgent.news from Mongabay's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
