News

Leading wildlife charity WWF has warned people travelling abroad this summer not to bring back endangered species, after it was revealed that British customs confiscated more than 163,000 illegal wildlife trade items in the last year.

The items confiscated included snakeskin purses, ivory carvings and more than half a ton of traditional Chinese medicines. Many of the items are derived from animals and plants that are protected under the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flaura.

The WWF warned that unsuspecting travellers could be contributing to the extinction of endangered species through the products they purchase while on holiday.

Heather Sohl, wildlife trade officer at the charity, said: 'Many tourists could be unwittingly helping to push some of the world's most endangered species to the brink of extinction - all for the sake of an exotic souvenir.

'Although the latest figures indicate some illegal wildlife trade items are being brought in knowingly by wildlife criminals the majority of seizures appear to be items innocently brought back by holidaymakers as souvenirs. Our message is - if in doubt don't buy.'

Opodo is a leading online travel company offering flights, hotels, rental cars and holidays worldwide. Search for travel deals.

© Adfero Ltd