Stop the Hunting of Wildlife in India

Illegal Porcupine quills seized from districts of Northern Western Ghats

 Illegal wildlife trade is a major driver of biodiversity loss in the world. Indian crested porcupine (Hystrix indica) despite being protected under the schedule IV of Wildife Protection Act of India, 1972, the quills are openly available in Indian markets. In India, Porcupine quills are religiously believed to bring good luck and to possess antibiotic properties which have increased their demand in markets.

Quill trade in districts of Northern Western Ghats in the state of Maharashtra was closely observed by a close informer network comprising of tribal (Katkari community) and non-tribal communities to get insights of the trade dynamics and identifying the source trade areas. Based on the collected data a trade network map was prepared to learn the trade routes and flow of the quills and was shared with the Maharashtra Forest Department.

 Seizure of Illegal Wildlife items

With the continuous support of GlobalGiving, WTI conducted market surveys in certain hotspots. Along with the support of the forest department, the team undertook two seizure operations in the market areas. The sellers were found to sell both fake and real wildlife items like Indian crested porcupine (Hystrix indica) quills, Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus) feathers and other wildlife articles.

The field proponent mentions, “This area has been identified as the main sink for this trade. The shopkeepers and hunters are well aware of the species being protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and are yet involved. I express my gratitude for the aid provided by WTI to undertake this study and seizure.” She also mentions the continuous need for market patrolling and sensitizing consumers regarding the myths behind the quills and the importance of the species in the ecosystem.

Thanks to all the donors at GlobalGiving platform , total of 58 quills and 248 peacock feathers where seized by the authorities.