Newman Government crackdown on illegal wildlife

Queensland’s wildlife will be better protected and communities will be safer with a Queensland Government crackdown on wildlife crime.

Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection Andrew Powell said the Government had already revitalised this important frontline service and now illegal wildlife traders taking advantage of social media were being further put on notice.

“There has been an increase in wildlife crime, in particular the trade of reptiles, such as snakes, rare birds, turtles and knob-tailed geckos over the internet and via social media channels,” Mr Powell said.

“Some of the wildlife is highly prized and extremely valuable in illegal circles.

“Since we were elected in March 2012, there have been a number of raids on Queensland homes and businesses, resulting in more than 200 animals being seized.

“Last year a Brisbane man was caught with 40 protected turtles at his home and fined $9,500.

“Not only was it illegal to have taken and kept the turtles, but they were in an inadequate sized fish tank that was clogged with fecal matter, skin cells and rotten meat.

“While most people do the right thing and have the appropriate wildlife permits in place, the Newman Government makes no apologies for cracking down hard on illegal wildlife trading.”

Mr Powell said Criminals had been known to use venomous snakes to guard their drugs, and in many cases, the reptiles were found in a poor condition, and not always able to be rehabilitated. “

Unlike the former Labor government’s approach, our wildlife officers are out from behind their desks and working on the frontline to capture these criminals and protect our wildlife,” he said.

“Social media means this activity is bigger than ever before and involves a lot more species.

“Our strong plan to protect wildlife includes keeping a closer eye on websites, social media and internet advertisements for illegal trading activities, ensuring a brighter future for Queensland.

“Illegal trade of protected wildlife can adversely impact on local wildlife populations, particularly where threatened species are involved.

“A new focus will be the illegal practice of cross breeding different species to create hybrids.

“Scientists have advised this poses a real risk to conservation if animals were to escape and establish themselves in the wild.

“The Newman Government backs science and is committed to ensuring the safety of Queensland’s wildlife.”

[ENDS] 26 July 2014

Media contact: Lynette Keep 0419 620 299