Spanish Authorities Crack Down on Exotic Cat Trafficking Ring

The Spanish Civil Guard has arrested a couple for breeding exotic cats, including rare species like white tigers and clouded leopards, in an investigation linked to an international trafficking organization. Nineteen felines were rescued from their property, revealing a growing issue of wildlife trafficking fueled by social media.

Spanish law enforcement has arrested a couple in Majorca, Spain, suspected of breeding and selling exotic cats, including several protected species. The operation was initiated by the Civil Guard, who executed a raid at the couple’s residence after allegations surfaced regarding their online sales of rare felines. A total of 19 animals, including a caracal, two servals, and 16 hybrid cats, were found and rescued by authorities.

In a statement, the Civil Guard indicated that this operation is merely the beginning of uncovering a larger global trafficking ring that includes breeders, transporters, and veterinarians. "Most of the animals on offer were imported from countries such as Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine, before being smuggled into the European Union," they disclosed. The investigation also revealed that the couple’s active social media presence attracted buyers from various nations.

The animals were reportedly smuggled across the EU’s borders through Poland and sold with falsified documents. This alarming trend reflects Europe’s growing status as a hub for the illegal exotic wildlife trade as highlighted by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), which has noted a worrying rise in the black market.

As part of their advertising strategy, the couple also promoted a range of other exotic species, which included hyenas and desert lynxes. For instance, a clouded leopard, typically found in the Himalayas, was reported to be listed for sale online at a staggering €60,000 (about $68,000).

The recent raid was a part of a larger operation that commenced last March, and ongoing investigations have implicated an additional individual who is also being scrutinized for marketing various exotic animals online. Currently, the rescued felines have been temporarily accommodated at the Son Servera Safari Zoo in Majorca, with plans for their eventual relocation to a rescue center near Alicante.

The rising demand for exotic cats, often perceived as symbols of wealth or social status, is exacerbated by the reach of social media. However, experts caution that these exotic pets require extensive space and specialized care. Additionally, their aggressive nature can lead to significant risks for both people and other local wildlife, resulting in many instances where owners abandon these animals, as noted by the Spanish Civil Guard.