Endangered Wildlife Has A Fighting Chance With Groundbreaking Bill

<p>Diriye Amie / <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/diriye/12302326486/" target="_blank">Flickr</a> (<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a>)</p>
<p>Diriye Amie / <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/diriye/12302326486/" target="_blank">Flickr</a> (<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a>)</p>

To combat the rapid scourge of wildlife trafficking, the United States has responded with swift action. Twenty-two of the 50 states have taken the step toward a nationwide ban on ivory trade. An enormous step, considering the US was the second largest ivory market in the world.

Photo: Elephants DC

Now New York is seeking to take it a step further. Bill s.4686, better known as the "Africa Big Five" bill, would ban the import, possession, sale or transportation of any of the Big Five (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, and cape buffalo) in the state. This bill would amend a current law by classifying the Big Five as "foreign game."

Senator Tony Avella said:

"The ban eliminates much of the incentive to continue hunting these animals overseas and shipping their remains off to buyers in New York with a high price tag. It is high time New York take a stand against this horrible practice. By passing this legislation we can ensure that New York, which is one of the largest hubs for importation and transport of these animal carcasses, does not become just another contributor to the inhumane trade of the bodies and parts of these animals."
Senator Avella with Edita Birnkrant, of Friends of Animals. Photo: Friends of Animals

New York was among the first states to pass the ivory ban. If the Big Five Bill passes, this could lead the way for not just other states, but the world. Stricter laws could give Africa's big game, as well as other endangered species a fighting chance at a comeback.

You can help! Send a quick note to your local representatives and ask them to support Senator Avella and take action in your state! Look up your state senators and representatives here.