Uncovering the Dark Side of the European Tiger Trade
In a shocking revelation, a Czech police raid stumbled upon a dead tiger and a heap of its body parts hanging from a shed in the heart of Europe. The discovery is just one of 175 customs operations carried out across the summer, all aimed at cracking down on the illicit trade.
Why Tigers Are So In Demand
- Animal rights group FOUR PAWS estimates that between 1999 and 2016, over 8,000 illegal tiger parts were seized throughout Europe. They believe this is only a fraction of the real smuggling activity.
- The trade thrives on weak regulation, allowing certain products to be marketed under exotic and mystical claims.
- During the same period, 161 live tigers were legally exported from the EU, showing how captive animals can slip through the cracks.
The “Tiger Wine” Phenomenon
Czech officials point out that tiger wine—made from crushed tiger bones—is oddly popular among some European communities who swear by its supposed healing powers. One litre can fetch a whopping $2,000 on the black‑market, while a single tiger pelt can command about $20,000.
What’s Happening Next
- Following the raid, the Czech Republic suspended commercial tiger exports to curb further exploitation.
- On Oct 11, FOUR PAWS urged the European Commission to impose a blanket ban across the bloc.
- Meanwhile, the UK hosted an Illegal Wildlife Trade Conference, where Prince William (also president of United for Wildlife) blasted the trade for undermining law and threatening iconic species.
It’s a stark reminder that if we don’t tighten the leash, Europe’s tiger trade will keep growing, fighting against the duty to protect one of the world’s most iconic creatures.
