Social and Behavioral Sciences | Open Access Articles

The illicit trade in African wildlife has a lengthy history with devastating effect on select

species. While considerable research addresses the impact of the trade on rhinoceros

and elephant, the poaching of the reptiles, birds and marine life comprises a significantly

greater volume of wildlife yet receives somewhat less attention. To better

understand these aspects of the illegal trade, this study focuses on abalone, a

highly desired and protected shellfish found off the Western Cape of South

Africa and heavily targeted by poachers to meet demand in South Africa and

parts of East Asia. Relying on qualitative data from field …

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