Reptile Poaching

Reptile trafficking violations pose a threat to diverse habitats in the New York region.

State and federal regulations on wildlife trafficking serve the purpose of protecting endangered species. Yet, Regulations are often watered down because state agencies don't have the necessary funds for undercover investigations needed to catch poachers.

A 2006 trafficking investigation exposed the degree of commercial trafficking of reptiles in New York state. The Internet contributes to the ease of legal and illegal reptile trade.

In reaction to the investigation, the Department of Environmental Conservation began "Operation Shellshock" in 2007, in which two undercover investigators pretended to be reptile vendors online to catch illegal traders of reptiles.

The investigation led to violations, misdemeanors, and felonies against 18 New York residents.

"One of the strongest reasons behind Operation Shellshock is the modern knowledge that these animals are ecologically significant," said Lt. Richard Thomas, the leader of the investigation.

Some poachers of endangered and non-endangered animals harm habitats by drenching the area with gasoline in order to force reptiles out of their homes.