Rédaction Africa Links 24 with AFP
Published on 2024-01-30 03:37:37
Colombian authorities at the Bogota airport intercepted a shipment of 130 poisonous frogs and arrested a Brazilian woman who was attempting to traffic them. The woman, who was traveling to Sao Paulo with a layover in Panama, had concealed the rare harlequin poison frogs (oophaga histrionica) inside film containers. She claimed that the frogs had been given to her as a gift by a local community, according to Bogota Environment Secretary Adriana Soto.
Harlequin frogs, which are venomous and relatively small in size, are native to the damp forests along the Pacific coast spanning from Ecuador to Colombia, as well as other countries in Central and South America. They are highly sought after in international markets, with private collectors reportedly willing to pay up to $1,000 for each frog.
The woman was arrested for the crime of wildlife trafficking and subsequently handed over to the prosecutor’s office for further investigation. This incident sheds light on the prevalent issue of animal trafficking in Colombia, a country known for its rich biodiversity. Amphibians, small mammals, and marine animal parts, such as those of sharks, are commonly trafficked in the region.
The interception of the poisonous frog shipment is a testament to Colombia’s efforts to combat the illegal trade of wildlife. It serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting endangered species and preserving the country’s unique and diverse ecosystem. With ongoing vigilance and enforcement, authorities hope to deter future attempts at trafficking endangered animals and contribute to the conservation of Colombia’s natural heritage.
