Cockfighting has been illegal in Costa Rica for more than a century, but this violent tradition persists underground across the country. To make the birds deadlier, their owners often tie razor-sharp blades to their legs, known as gaffs or cockspurs. Aside from the roosters, which get seriously injured or killed during fights, another species has […]
Tag: turtles
Petition: Tell Authorities to Investigate Potential Animal Trafficking Networks
The recent arrest of a smuggler trying to take 29 eastern box turtles from the U.S. to Canada highlights a gaping hole in our wildlife protection efforts. These turtles, part of a species listed as vulnerable due to threats like the illegal pet trade, deserve better. Sign the petition to demand U.S. authorities thoroughly investigate […]
Endangered Sea Turtle Completes Incredible 5,000-Mile Journey Back to Gulf of Mexico
A rare Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, one of the smallest and most endangered sea turtles, recently completed a remarkable return to the Gulf of Mexico after being found thousands of miles away in Europe. This resilient turtle, affectionately named Boeier after the boat that rescued her, had an unexpected adventure that spanned over 5,000 miles […]
Woman Faces Prison for Attempting to Smuggle Turtles Across Lake to Canada
A woman was caught attempting to smuggle 29 eastern box turtles from the United States to Canada, hiding the protected reptiles inside socks in a duffle bag. Wan Yee Ng, who was arrested in Vermont in June, was preparing to paddle across Lake Wallace in an inflatable kayak when authorities apprehended her. She has since […]
Turtle Racing at California Bar Sparks Outrage from Animal Rights Groups
Brennan’s bar in Marina del Rey, California, has come under fire for increasing the frequency of its controversial turtle races, moving from twice a month to a weekly schedule. Despite backlash from Animal rights advocates, reptile experts, and celebrities, the bar has doubled down on the practice, drawing widespread criticism for exploiting animals for entertainment. […]
Ultra Rare Reptile with Only 400 Left Can Survive in Colder Temps–Sparking Hope for Western Swamp Tortoise
The recent discovery of Australia’s most endangered reptile surviving in colder temperatures has inspired conservationists in Perth to continue trying to save the species thought to have only 400-500 individuals remaining in the wild. Introductions of the Western swamp tortoise into other areas are now on the docket, as scientists look to find a suitable […]
Here’s What Would Happen if All Marine Species Disappeared
Marine species play a critical role in maintaining the delicate balance of our planet’s ecosystems. Their existence is not only essential for the health of our oceans but also for the well-being of life on land. However, imagine a world where every marine species vanishes, leaving behind a barren and lifeless ocean. The implications of […]
Illegally Trafficked Box Turtles Need Homes
Returning seized animals to the wild is seldom an option due to uncertainties about their origins and potential disease risks. Tamesha Woulard, a 36-year veteran of the FWS, highlighted the perennial challenge of handling confiscated live animals. “What happens after they’re here?” she asked, revealing a critical gap in wildlife management in response to the […]