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De la Fuente MF, de Araújo BMC, da Silva Policarpo I, Pereira HM, Borges AKM, Vieira WLS, Pereira Filho GA, Alves RRN. Keeping reptiles as pets in Brazil: keepers' motivations and husbandry practices. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2023; 19:46. [PMID: 37865770 PMCID: PMC10590521 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-023-00618-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reptiles are considered one of the most popular pets in the world and are often associated with an incorrect belief that they are simple, highly adaptable, and easy to keep animals when compared with other pets, such as dogs and cats. However, keeping reptiles as pets can pose several challenges in meeting their needs in a domestic setting, requiring specific conditions and effort to maintain their health, well-being, and survival. METHODS During 2015, using online semi-structured questionnaires applied to 719 Brazilian pet reptile keepers who participated in online groups of reptile breeders on the social network Facebook, this study aimed to identify Brazilian keepers' motivations for maintaining reptiles as pets, investigate their monthly expenses, and the husbandry practices for the maintenance, such as housing and feeding conditions, handling of the animal, health issues, and treatment provided. RESULTS We found multiple motivations for keeping reptiles as pets (mostly snakes, lizards, and chelonians), the main motivation being emotional reasons, followed by entertainment and convenience reasons. The great majority of keepers (69%) declared to spend less than or up to US$30 per month in maintaining their reptiles. Most reptiles were kept alone in terrarium/aquarium enclosures, with basic environmental complexity in terms of physical elements. Lizards and chelonians were fed with a few insect species, cultivated fruits and vegetables, while snakes were fed mainly with domestic rodents, rabbits, or birds. Keepers declared frequent cleaning of the enclosure, but inappropriately handled their animals directly with their hands, which might result in potential threats to human and reptile health and safety. Several diseases or injuries were mentioned and 55.6% of the keepers declared taking the reptile to the vet for treatment. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our findings revealed several challenges that reptiles face when kept in domestic environments, including issues related to housing, nutrition, and healthcare. Even though keepers demonstrated positive feelings toward their pets, suggesting a positive relationship and a willingness to provide them with proper care, it seems that without the proper knowledge and awareness, reptiles may unintentionally be kept with poor husbandry. Addressing these challenges on husbandry practices is essential for improving reptiles' welfare and promoting a responsible pet ownership.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Fernanda De la Fuente
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Campina Grande, PB, Brazil.
| | | | - Iamara da Silva Policarpo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas (Zoologia), Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Heliene Mota Pereira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Campina Grande, PB, Brazil
| | - Anna Karolina Martins Borges
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Campina Grande, PB, Brazil
- LAPEC - Laboratório de Peixes e Conservação Marinha, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Washington Luiz Silva Vieira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas (Zoologia), Laboratório de Ecofisiologia Animal, Departamento de Sistemática e Ecologia, Centro de Ciências Exatas e da Natureza, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | | | - Rômulo Romeu Nóbrega Alves
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Campina Grande, PB, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas (Zoologia), Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Campina Grande, PB, Brazil
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Bielby J, Ferguson A, Rendle M, McMillan KM. Online classified adverts reflect the broader United Kingdom trade in turtles and tortoises rather than drive it. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288725. [PMID: 37440593 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Online sales are increasingly a route by which exotic animals are sold in the global pet trade. There are numerous types of online platforms and transaction types, and dedicated classified advertisement sites are a popular means of buying and selling animals. Despite their large and increasing use, we have a relatively poor understanding of the number of, and taxonomic variation in, the animals sold online. This information may be key in efforts to optimise the welfare of the animals being sold, and the ethics and sustainability of the trade via that platform. To fill this knowledge gap, we monitored and analysed the advertisements of chelonians (turtles and tortoises) placed on one of the United Kingdom's largest dedicated classified ads sites, www.pets4homes.co.uk, over the course of a year, from July 2020 until June 2021. We analysed temporal, taxonomic, and advertiser related trends in the volumes of advertisements placed and compared the prices and the sentiment of language within adverts for different species. We found that the species advertised, the prices requested, and infrequent use of the site by most advertisers is consistent with most adverts being for animals being resold by casual users. Further, we found that turtles were consistently advertised for lower prices and in multiples than tortoises, and that the language with which they were advertised was less positive. We conclude that on this website the online trade reflects the broader trade, rather than drives the sales of chelonians in the UK, and that any interventions aiming to improve welfare and sustainability would be better placed earlier in the supply chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Bielby
- School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, England
| | - Andy Ferguson
- Lincolnshire Wildlife Park, Friskney, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Matthew Rendle
- Association of Zoo & Exotic Veterinary Nurses, Market Harborough, United kingdom
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da Silva AR, Braga-Pereira F, Borges AKM, de Oliveira JV, da Silva MXG, Alves RRN. Bioecological representations and social characteristics of students influence their attitudes toward wild vertebrates. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2023; 19:25. [PMID: 37308895 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-023-00593-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The origin of different human emotions directed towards animals (whether in the utilitarian, affective, conflictual, or cosmological context) is strongly influenced by sociocultural factors, although our genetic predispositions also play an important role in the origin of these emotions. Such emotions guide people's representations of different species, which in turn affect their attitudes toward them. For this reason, understanding the factors that guide such attitudes becomes a key element in making conservationist decisions. In this sense, the main objective of this study was to analyze how sociocultural characteristics and bioecological representations can influence students' attitudes of empathy or antipathy towards vertebrate species; as well as which classes and species are related to greater and lesser support in people for their conservation. METHODS To do so, 667 interviews were conducted with students from urban (n = 1) and rural (n = 2) schools in the Brazilian semi-arid region. We used mixed generalized linear models (GLMM) to examine the effect of social factors and bioecological representations on empathy and antipathy attitudes and multiple factor analysis (MFA) to examine the relationship between the biological characteristics of the animals (positive or negative) and the attitudes toward them (antipathetic or empathetic). RESULTS Through GLMM, we found that students from the urban area and from lower school levels are more extreme in their responses, more frequently expressing both empathy and antipathy towards wild animals. Regarding gender, women had a higher frequency of responses associated with aversion than men for species perceived as dangerous and poisonous (p < 0.001). Through the MFA, we found greater support (empathy) for the conservation of fish species (31.56%), birds (29.37%) and mammals (25.94%), with emphasis on the Red-cowled cardinal (Paroaria dominicana) and clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) species, and less support (antipathy) for reptile and amphibian species such as rattlesnakes (Crotalus durissus) and horned frogs (Ceratophrys joazeirensis). CONCLUSIONS The attitudinal ambivalence reflected by varying empathy for certain species and antipathy to others has important implications for wildlife conservation. Understanding the socioeconomic factors and emotions that influence attitudes towards animals can enable integrating educational strategies for the conservation of species, especially those which are culturally important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Rozendo da Silva
- Laboratório de Etnobiologia, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Avenida das Baraúnas, 351, Bairro Universitário, Campina Grande, PB, 58429-500, Brazil
| | - Franciany Braga-Pereira
- Departamento de Sistemática e Ecologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, 58051-900, Brazil.
| | - Anna Karolina Martins Borges
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros, s/n - Dois irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - José Valberto de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Etnobiologia, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Avenida das Baraúnas, 351, Bairro Universitário, Campina Grande, PB, 58429-500, Brazil
| | - Moacyr Xavier Gomes da Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros, s/n - Dois irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Rômulo Romeu Nóbrega Alves
- Laboratório de Etnobiologia, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Avenida das Baraúnas, 351, Bairro Universitário, Campina Grande, PB, 58429-500, Brazil
- Departamento de Sistemática e Ecologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, 58051-900, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros, s/n - Dois irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
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Warwick C, Pilny A, Steedman C, Howell T, Martínez-Silvestre A, Cadenas V, Grant R. Mobile Zoos and Other Itinerant Animal Handling Events: Current Status and Recommendations for Future Policies. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13020214. [PMID: 36670754 PMCID: PMC9854913 DOI: 10.3390/ani13020214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Mobile zoos are events in which non-domesticated (exotic) and domesticated species are transported to venues such as schools, hospitals, parties, and community centres, for the purposes of education, entertainment, or social and therapeutic assistance. We conducted literature searches and surveyed related government agencies regarding existing provisions within laws and policies, number of mobile zoos, and formal guidance issued concerning operation of such events in 74 countries or regions. We also examined governmental and non-governmental guidance standards for mobile zoos, as well as websites for mobile zoo operations, assessed promotional or educational materials for scientific accuracy, and recorded the diversity of species in use. We used the EMODE (Easy, Moderate, Difficult, or Extreme) algorithm, to evaluate identified species associated with mobile zoos for their suitability for keeping. We recorded 14 areas of concern regarding animal biology and public health and safety, and 8 areas of false and misleading content in promotional or educational materials. We identified at least 341 species used for mobile zoos. Mobile zoos are largely unregulated, unmonitored, and uncontrolled, and appear to be increasing. Issues regarding poor animal welfare, public health and safety, and education raise several serious concerns. Using the precautionary principle when empirical evidence was not available, we advise that exotic species should not be used for mobile zoos and similar itinerant events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clifford Warwick
- Emergent Disease Foundation, 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9JQ, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Anthony Pilny
- Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital, 2340 E Beardsley Road Ste 100, Phoenix, AZ 85024, USA
| | - Catrina Steedman
- Emergent Disease Foundation, 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9JQ, UK
| | - Tiffani Howell
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, P.O. Box 199, Bendigo, VIC 3552, Australia
| | | | - Vanessa Cadenas
- Animal Protection Biodiversity & Environment Section, Government of Catalonia, 43004 Tarragona, Spain
| | - Rachel Grant
- School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, 103 Borough Rd, London SE1 0AA, UK
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Borges AKM, Oliveira TPR, Alves RRN. Marine or freshwater: the role of ornamental fish keeper's preferences in the conservation of aquatic organisms in Brazil. PeerJ 2022; 10:e14387. [PMID: 36389422 PMCID: PMC9661971 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The use of ornamental fish as pets has important implications for the conservation of the species used in fish keeping, particularly in relation to overexploitation. Understanding ornamental fish keepers' relationship with the hobby can provide important information for assessing the potential impacts of the activity. Here, we analyzed the profile of Brazilian ornamental fish keepers and evaluated their preferences and the implications of their choices. Methods Information was obtained by applying questionnaires to 906 ornamental fish keepers participating in fish keeping groups in a social network. The questionnaire contained questions about the species of fish kept (freshwater and marine), techniques used, socio-economic aspects, and associated conservation perspectives. Results Most ornamental fish keepers were young men (20-40 years old), with higher education and monthly income above US$ 530.00. Participants predominantly kept freshwater fish (86%), but marine fish only (5%) or both marine and freshwater hobbyists (9%) were also recorded. A total of 523 species of ornamental fish were kept, most of which comprised freshwater (76% of the total) and exotic species (73%). About a third of the fish species recorded were under national trade restrictions. In addition, about a third of ornamental fish keepers declared that they also had invertebrates. Marine aquariums require a greater financial investment, especially at the beginning, than freshwater aquariums and are also almost entirely based on exotic species. The aesthetic factor is the main motivation associated with practicing this hobby, being color and behavior key factors in choosing fish. A total of 10% of hobbyists have already released fish into the wild, highlighting concerns about potential biological invasions. There is an urgent need to enforce regulations towards restricting ornamental fish keepers' access to threatened native species and potentially invasive species, as well as measures aimed at informing and raising hobbyists' awareness of conservation measures related to the hobby.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Karolina Martins Borges
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
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Toomes A, García‐Díaz P, Stringham OC, Ross JV, Mitchell L, Cassey P. Drivers of the Australian native pet trade: the role of species traits, socioeconomic attributes and regulatory systems. J Appl Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.14138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Adam Toomes
- Invasion Science and Wildlife Ecology Group The University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Pablo García‐Díaz
- School of Biological Sciences, Zoology Building University of Aberdeen Aberdeen UK
| | - Oliver C. Stringham
- Invasion Science and Wildlife Ecology Group The University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
- School of Mathematical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Joshua V. Ross
- School of Mathematical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Lewis Mitchell
- School of Mathematical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Phillip Cassey
- Invasion Science and Wildlife Ecology Group The University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
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Ethnozoology of snakebite victims in a risk area in Northeast Brazil. Toxicon 2021; 201:155-163. [PMID: 34454970 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study had the objectives to describe and analyze the perceptions and attitudes of snakebite victims in the semi-arid region of Northeast Brazil. A semi-structured questionnaire was applied as snakebite victims to identify the characteristics of the accident, their daily life, as well as positive and negative attitudes towards snake conservation and knowledge about species. Information about the possible uses of traditional treatment, allopathic care characteristics along with the symptoms and sequelae resulting from the accident were also recorded. The results obtained revealed that accidents mostly occurred during the development of their daily activities (i.e. during agricultural activities, in hunting activities in the mountains, in caring for farm animals, etc); most accidents are associated with Caatinga lancehead (Jararaca; Bothrops erythromelas); the bites usually affect the limbs, 75% (n = 46) feet, and the victims resort to medical assistance for specific treatment, although some seek this service after using or ingesting medicinal or popular/home-made therapeutic resources. The most relevant characteristics detected in these accidents were the strong influence of myths about traditional treatment (20%, n = 12) and the knowledge about identifying common snake species in the region (66%, n = 40). No perception was detected about the importance of these animals, but there were negative attitudes when finding a snake, fear/panic (34%, n = 21); kill the snake (23%, n = 14), thus constituting facts which may be related to the deficiency in the education level of this population which is interfering in environmental and public health issues. Work on improving the knowledge and local perception could subsidize actions and policies aimed to prevent accidents, demystify snakes and contribute to the conservation of the species.
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Fonseca É, Zank C, Cechin SZ, Both C. Reptile pet trade in Brazil: A regulatory approach to sustainable biodiversity conservation. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Érica Fonseca
- Departamento de Biologia, Programa de Pós‐Graduação em Biodiversidade Animal Universidade Federal de Santa Maria Santa Maria Rio Grande do Sul Brazil
| | - Caroline Zank
- Departamento de Ecologia Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Núcleo de Ecologia de Rodovias e Ferrovias Porto Alegre Rio Grande do Sul Brazil
| | - Sonia Zanini Cechin
- Departamento de Biologia, Programa de Pós‐Graduação em Biodiversidade Animal Universidade Federal de Santa Maria Santa Maria Rio Grande do Sul Brazil
| | - Camila Both
- Departamento Interdisciplinar Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Campus Litoral Norte Tramandaí Brazil
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Protázio AS, Protázio AS, Silva LS, Conceição LC, Braga HSN, Santos UG, Ribeiro AC, Almeida AC, Gama V, Vieira MVSA, Silva TAF. Amphibians and reptiles of the Atlantic Forest in Recôncavo Baiano, east Brazil: Cruz das Almas municipality. Zookeys 2021; 1060:125-153. [PMID: 34629926 PMCID: PMC8478776 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1060.62982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A list of amphibian and reptile species that occur in open and forested areas of the Atlantic Forest in the municipality of Cruz das Almas, in the Recôncavo Baiano, eastern Brazil is presented. Field sampling occurred between January 2015 to March 2019, totalling 117 samples distributed in three areas: Parque Florestal Mata de Cazuzinha, Mata da Cascalheira, and Riacho do Machado. A total of 1,848 individuals of 69 species (31 anurans, 14 lizards, 19 snakes, two amphisbaenians, and three testudines) was recorded. Additionally, one individual of Ophiodesstriatus was found in Mata da Cascalheira after the end of sampling, totalling 15 lizard species and 70 herpetofaunal species. The prevalence of open-area species and the presence of Phyllopezuslutzae, Diploglossuslessonae, and Dryadosauranordestina in interior forest patches are discussed. Additionally, a new record of the invasive terrapin Trachemysdorbigni in the State of Bahia is reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arielson S Protázio
- Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Ambientais e Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Rua Rui Barbosa, Centro, 44380-000, Cruz das Almas, Bahia, Brazil Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia Cruz das Almas Brazil
| | - Airan S Protázio
- Departamento de Ensino, Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia da Bahia, Rodovia BA 148, Km 04, Vila Esperança, 44900-000, Irecê, Bahia, Brazil Instituto Federal de Educação Irecê Brazil
| | - Larissa S Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Evolução, Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana, Av. Transnordestina, S/N, Novo Horizonte, 44936-900, Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana Feira de Santana Brazil
| | - Lennise C Conceição
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Evolução, Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana, Av. Transnordestina, S/N, Novo Horizonte, 44936-900, Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana Feira de Santana Brazil
| | - Hugo S N Braga
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Zoologia, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Rodovia Jorge Amado, Km 16, Salobrinho, 45662-900, Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz Ilhéus Brazil
| | - Uilton G Santos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Avenida Adhemar de Barros, S/N, Ondina, 40170-110, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil Universidade Federal da Bahia Salvador Brazil
| | - André C Ribeiro
- Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Ambientais e Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Rua Rui Barbosa, Centro, 44380-000, Cruz das Almas, Bahia, Brazil Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia Cruz das Almas Brazil
| | - Amanda C Almeida
- Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Ambientais e Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Rua Rui Barbosa, Centro, 44380-000, Cruz das Almas, Bahia, Brazil Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia Cruz das Almas Brazil
| | - Vívian Gama
- Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Ambientais e Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Rua Rui Barbosa, Centro, 44380-000, Cruz das Almas, Bahia, Brazil Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia Cruz das Almas Brazil
| | - Marcos V S A Vieira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Zoologia, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Rodovia Jorge Amado, Km 16, Salobrinho, 45662-900, Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz Ilhéus Brazil
| | - Tiago A F Silva
- Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Ambientais e Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Rua Rui Barbosa, Centro, 44380-000, Cruz das Almas, Bahia, Brazil Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia Cruz das Almas Brazil
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da Silva MXG, Braga-Pereira F, da Silva MC, de Oliveira JV, de Faria Lopes S, Alves RRN. What are the factors influencing the aversion of students towards reptiles? JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2021; 17:35. [PMID: 34011374 PMCID: PMC8136183 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-021-00462-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reptiles form a paraphyletic group with significant roles for human society, including species that are considered important for food, medicinal and mystical use and as pets. Some species are considered to be aversive, whereas others are captivating among people. Aversion is an important factor which should be considered in the conservation policies of these animals. As such, here, we investigate the demographic, educational, perceptives and behavioural factors of students related to their aversion and non-conservationist attitudes directed towards different reptile species and evaluated the effect of educational exhibition of animals as a strategy of mitigating these attitudes. METHODS The data were obtained through forms on the aversion and conservation of reptiles represented by three species, a chelonian, a snake and a lizard. The form was given in two instances, before and after a visit to a private zoo (Museu Vivo Répteis da Caatinga), where the students had contact with the aforementioned species. A total of 133 students participated in the study, among these, 43 from elementary school (21 females and 22 males), 29 from high school (16 females and 13 males), 37 from university biology students (22 females and 15 males) and 24 university mathematics students (6 females and 18 males). RESULTS Among all evaluated species, snakes were considered to be the most aversive species. The aversion attitudes differed between the three evaluated species when correlated to age and type of university courses. However, this pattern did not differ between student sexes. Older students had a lower aversion to the chelonian compared to the younger ones, but for snakes and lizards, the aversion was high among students of all ages. The university biology students had a lower aversion compared to the university mathematics students for the three species. The recognition and handle of the tested species and previous visits to educational exhibitions of animals were negatively related to aversion. The comparative analysis of the forms applied before and after the visit to the Museu Vivo Répteis da Caatinga showed that this visit influenced the decrease of aversion, but not in non-conservationist attitudes, for which the attitude scores had always been low. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that reptile aversion varies in accordance with the taxon, being snakes the most disliked by students. The visit to the educational exhibition of animals contributed to the reduction of the observed aversion. This is especially true when the acquisition of educational information about species is associated with practical activities which includes contact with the animals. Finally, the fact that non-conservationist attitudes had been low towards all species perhaps demonstrates a conservationist tendency even for the most aversive species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moacyr Xavier Gomes da Silva
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza (PPGEtno), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros, s/n – Dois irmãos, Recife, PE 52171-900 Brazil
| | - Franciany Braga-Pereira
- Departamento de Sistemática e Ecologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB 58051-900 Brazil
- RedeFauna, Rede de Pesquisa Em Diversidade, Conservação e Uso da Fauna da Amazônia, Brazil, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Mikaela Clotilde da Silva
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ecologia e Conservação, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351 – Bodocongó, Campina Grande, PB 58109-753 Brazil
| | - José Valberto de Oliveira
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351 – Bodocongó, Campina Grande, PB 58109-753 Brazil
| | - Sérgio de Faria Lopes
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351 – Bodocongó, Campina Grande, PB 58109-753 Brazil
| | - Rômulo Romeu Nóbrega Alves
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza (PPGEtno), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros, s/n – Dois irmãos, Recife, PE 52171-900 Brazil
- Departamento de Sistemática e Ecologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB 58051-900 Brazil
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351 – Bodocongó, Campina Grande, PB 58109-753 Brazil
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Exotic pet trading and keeping: Proposing a model government consultation and advisory protocol. J Vet Behav 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2021.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Valdez JW. Using Google Trends to Determine Current, Past, and Future Trends in the Reptile Pet Trade. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030676. [PMID: 33802560 PMCID: PMC8001315 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Reptiles are one of the most popular exotic pets in the world, with over a third of all described species currently being traded. However, the most commonly available reptiles are typically non-threatened, captive-bred, and/or domestically obtained, which means they are also largely unregulated and unmonitored, resulting in a large portion of the reptile pet trade remaining unknown. In this study, the past, current, and future trends of the most popular reptiles in the pet trade were examined. Google Trends was used to determine the global popularity of the most popular pets from 2004 to 2020 and compared to the results from an online survey sent to individuals involved in the reptile trade. The most popular pets from the previous five years were also compared globally across regions and countries. The results determined that the most popular reptile species during the last decade is by far bearded dragons, followed by ball pythons and leopard geckos. Although the survey results were similar when asked what the top reptiles were, most respondents named ball pythons as the most popular reptile. However, when asked what reptiles had lost the most popularity during the previous decade, the survey respondents named green iguanas, Burmese pythons, chameleons, red-eared sliders, and green anoles, concurring with what was found with Google Trends. The reptiles thought to be more popular in the upcoming decade by the survey participants were blue-tongued skinks, tegus, uromastyx, crested geckos, and ball pythons-most of which did indeed show an increase in popularity during the last decade, as indicated with Google Trends. The results from Google Trends demonstrated that ball pythons and crested geckos have increased their popularity more than any other reptile in the last two decades. Reptile popularity also differed between countries, with bearded dragons the most popular reptile in Australia, Western Europe, the U.S., and Canada. Leopard geckos were the most popular reptile in Italy and Turkey, and ball pythons were the reptile of choice in Mexico, Indonesia, and India. The general finding of this study is that the reptiles declining in popularity were mostly wild-caught or restricted due to regulations, while current and future species were captive-bred and available in many varieties or morphs. The most popular species were also docile, medium-sized, and easy to handle, with relatively simple care requirements. This study demonstrates that Google Trends can be a useful tool for determining relative popularity among reptiles, or any other pet group, with results closely mirroring those obtained through direct surveying of people involved in the pet trade. However, unlike surveys, this analysis is quick, quantifiable, and can show what is popular and in-demand not only at the global level but at much finer scales. Thus, Google Trends can be a valuable tool in many research applications, especially in topics that may otherwise be difficult to monitor and quantify.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose W Valdez
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstrasse 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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La Laina DZ, Nekaris KAI, Nijman V, Morcatty TQ. Illegal online pet trade in venomous snakes and the occurrence of snakebites in Brazil. Toxicon 2021; 193:48-54. [PMID: 33497744 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Greater access to the Internet has boosted the online pet trade and especially enabled the trade in niche-targeted groups, such as venomous species. Despite their fearsome reputation, an array of venomous animals, such as snakes, spiders and scorpions arise interest among pet hobbyists, which exposes owners, sellers, and others involved in their transport and maintenance to potentially serious accidents by envenomation. To assess the potential risk to human health posed by the trade and ownership of venomous pet snakes, we examined social media posts trading or portraying native and exotic venomous species as pets (Facebook™ and YouTube™) and official seizures in Brazil between 2015 and 2020. In addition, we recorded all venomous snakebite events occurring in the country during the same period from the Brazilian Ministry of Health database. We compiled 114,931 venomous snakebite events resulting in over 600 human deaths. Bothrops spp. and Crotalus spp. were responsible for 86% and 10% of these events. We recorded 241 individual venomous snakes kept as pets of at least 16 species (seven native and nine non-native). The taxa with higher numbers of snakebites were also those most often kept as pets. Venomous pet snakes were sold at low prices, US$ 71.70 ± 18.44 on average. Our findings highlight a dangerous market, given the similarity of taxa raised as pets and those causing snakebites, combined with low availability of anti-venom for exotic species in Brazil. Additionally, several of the venomous pet snakes recorded are invasive species in many countries. Trade in venomous snakes is prohibited in Brazil, but the law is not well-enforced. To curb this illegal market and discourage consumer demand, we suggest that tougher penalties for sellers and owners should be considered, along with the development of awareness campaigns on the consequences of the snakebite injuries and the lack of antivenoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Zani La Laina
- Oxford Wildlife Trade Research Group, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP, United Kingdom.
| | - K A I Nekaris
- Oxford Wildlife Trade Research Group, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP, United Kingdom.
| | - Vincent Nijman
- Oxford Wildlife Trade Research Group, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP, United Kingdom.
| | - Thais Q Morcatty
- Oxford Wildlife Trade Research Group, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP, United Kingdom; RedeFauna, Rede de Pesquisa Em Diversidade, Conservação e Uso da Fauna da Amazônia, Brazil.
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Masila NM, Ross KE, Gardner MG, Whiley H. Zoonotic and Public Health Implications of Campylobacter Species and Squamates (Lizards, Snakes and Amphisbaenians). Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9100799. [PMID: 32998205 PMCID: PMC7601876 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9100799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Campylobacter spp. is one of the most widespread infectious diseases of veterinary and public health significance. Globally, the incidence of campylobacteriosis has increased over the last decade in both developing and developed countries. Squamates (lizards, snakes and amphisbaenians) are a potential reservoir and source of transmission of campylobacteriosis to humans. This systematic review examined studies from the last 20 years that have reported squamate-associated human campylobacteriosis. It was found that C. fetus subsp. testudinum and C. fetus subsp. fetus were the most common species responsible for human campylobacteriosis from a squamate host. The common squamate hosts identified included bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps), green iguana (Iguana iguana), western beaked gecko (Rhynchoedura ornate) and blotched blue-tongued skink (Tiliqua nigrolutea). People with underlying chronic illnesses, the immunocompromised and the elderly were identified as the most vulnerable population. Exposure to pet squamates, wild animals, consumption of reptilian cuisines and cross contamination with untreated water were risk factors associated with Campylobacter infections. Proper hand hygiene practices, responsible pet ownership, ‘One Health’ education and awareness on zoonotic diseases will help reduce the public health risks arising from Campylobacter exposure through squamates. Continued surveillance using molecular diagnostic methods will also enhance detection and response to squamate-linked campylobacteriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicodemus M Masila
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
- Kenya Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis Eradication Council (KENTTEC), P.O. BOX 66290, Westlands, Nairobi 00800, Kenya
| | - Kirstin E Ross
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - Michael G Gardner
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
- Evolutionary Biology Unit, South Australian Museum, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Harriet Whiley
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
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Ríos-Orjuela JC, Falcón-Espitia N, Arias-Escobar A, Espejo-Uribe MJ, Chamorro-Vargas CT. Knowledge and interactions of the local community with the herpetofauna in the forest reserve of Quininí (Tibacuy-Cundinamarca, Colombia). JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2020; 16:17. [PMID: 32293483 PMCID: PMC7161309 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-020-00370-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study of human-nature relationship has made possible to understand the life dynamics of the communities and the biodiversity with which they cohabit. Although there has been a rise of ethnobiological studies over the last decade, little is known about human interaction with herpetofauna in South America and Colombia. In this work, we analyzed the knowledge, perception, and interaction of a local community located in the forest reserve of Quininí (RFPCQ) in Cundinamarca (Colombia), concerning to the herpetofauna that inhabits the area. METHODS We performed semi-structured surveys containing 30 questions categorized into three groups: academic knowledge (1), use and cultural beliefs (2), and interactions (3) related to the herpetofauna that occurs in the region. The obtained data in question groups 1 and 2 are presented as a qualitative summary. For the question group 3, we assigned the answers to a hostility value according to the possible reaction of each individual interviewed in a hypothetical encounter with the herpetofauna and built tendency charts in order to see the positive or negative reactions due to the birthplace (urban/rural) and gender (male/female). RESULTS The community recognized the presence of amphibians and reptiles that cohabit their space, as well as their potential habitats. Besides, the role of herpetofauna was recognized in the magical/religious traditions for some inhabitants of the region, mainly associated with the fate and cure of chronic diseases. In general, the perception of amphibians and reptiles varied according to the origin and gender of the people, which tend to have a more positive perception of reptiles than compared to amphibians in most cases. CONCLUSIONS Although there was a general lack of knowledge on the part of the inhabitants of the RFPCQ about the biological and ecological aspects of herpetofauna, the population recognized the basic information about the habitats of these animals within the reserve area. There is a wide variety of uses of amphibians and reptiles in traditional medicine. Greater efforts should be made in the transmission and dissemination of knowledge about the ecological functions of herpetofauna.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Camilo Ríos-Orjuela
- Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida Nazaré 481, Ipiranga, São Paulo, SP, CEP 04263-000, Brazil.
- Grupo de Morfología y Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá, Apartado, 7495, Bogotá D.C., Colombia.
| | - Nelson Falcón-Espitia
- Laboratorio de Ecología Evolutiva, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá, Ciudad Universitaria, Bogotá D.C., 11001, Colombia
- Grupo estudiantil de Herpetología, Área curricular de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá, Ciudad Universitaria, Bogotá D.C., 11001, Colombia
| | - Alejandra Arias-Escobar
- Grupo estudiantil de Herpetología, Área curricular de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá, Ciudad Universitaria, Bogotá D.C., 11001, Colombia
| | - María José Espejo-Uribe
- Grupo de Biodiversidad y Conservación Genética, Instituto de Genética, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá, Ciudad Universitaria, Bogotá D.C., 11001, Colombia
| | - Carol Tatiana Chamorro-Vargas
- Grupo estudiantil de Herpetología, Área curricular de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá, Ciudad Universitaria, Bogotá D.C., 11001, Colombia
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The role of the anthropogenic Allee effect in the exotic pet trade on Facebook in Thailand. J Nat Conserv 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnc.2019.125726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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