Digital Black Markets Threaten Costa Rica’s Unique Wildlife
The rise of digital platforms has facilitated illegal wildlife trade in Costa Rica, posing a significant challenge for authorities. According to Luis Diego Hernández, the Environmental Prosecutor’s Office has detected markets in 17 countries, targeting the country’s rich biodiversity, including rare species like amphibians, glass frogs, and morpho butterflies. The illegal trade is closely linked to drug trafficking, sharing routes and exploiting low criminal penalties. Criminal networks have become more sophisticated, using hackers and cryptocurrencies to avoid detection. Local cases also reveal the domestic market for wildlife, such as the recent discovery of a black-headed bushmaster for sale. Authorities are increasing cyber patrols, but stricter regulations are needed to protect Costa Rica’s ecosystems.
Costa Rica Cracks Down on Illegal Turtle Egg Trade in Osa
Authorities from the Osa Conservation Area (ACOSA) of Corcovado National Park detained two individuals carrying 546 turtle eggs during a control operation on September 28-29 in the Carate sector. The operation was initiated following reports of …