Wildlife traffickers are increasingly targeting Indonesia’s critically endangered maleo birds for the illegal pet trade. These birds, native to Sulawesi, are already facing population decline due to habitat loss and the raiding of their nests for eggs.
A recent study published in the Journal of Asian Ornithology documented the emergence of this new threat. Maleos, known for their distinctive appearance and unique nesting habits on geothermally heated beaches, are now sought after for their exotic appeal in the pet market. Researchers have recorded several seizures of live maleos destined for this trade.
Classified as critically endangered, the maleo population has dwindled to an estimated 4,000-7,000 breeding pairs. Their numbers have been impacted by the loss of nesting grounds due to development, mining, and road construction, as well as the consumption of their eggs.
Source: Mongabay