Why it matters:
Four mummified monkey remains were confiscated by airport security in Boston last month. The monkeys are considered to be “bushmeat,” which poses a risk of communicable disease transfer. The incident highlights the ongoing issue of illegal wildlife meat smuggling into the United States.
What they are saying:
The United States Customs and Border Protection stated that bringing bushmeat into the US poses potential dangers, including the risk of illness and the Ebola virus. They alerted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about the incident and destroyed the confiscated monkey meat. It is estimated that around 15,000 pounds of illegal wildlife meat are smuggled into the US every month.
The big picture:
Illegal monkey meat and other illicit meat from Africa are routinely smuggled into the United States. Smugglers often hide bushmeat among dried fish to evade detection. The problem is particularly prevalent in Liberia. The intercepted bushmeat shows the critical role of customs officials in preventing diseases from entering the country.
What to watch:
It is important to monitor the ongoing issue of wildlife meat smuggling and the measures taken by customs and border protection agencies to combat it. Continued efforts are necessary to prevent the entry of prohibited items and protect public health.
My take:
The confiscation of mummified monkey remains at the airport highlights the global problem of illegal wildlife trade and the associated risks to public health. Strict regulations and enforcement are crucial to prevent the spread of diseases and protect both human and animal welfare. Collaboration between government agencies, airlines, and international organizations is necessary to address this issue effectively.
