Lincoln Park Zoo Becomes Newest Member of the Wildlife Confiscations Network

Lincoln Park Zoo has joined the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Wildlife Confiscations Network (WCN). This unique program mitigates wildlife trafficking and supports law enforcement by providing a coordinated care system for wildlife that has been seized at U.S. ports of entry.

Following the interception of a trafficked animal, it is imperative that the highest standard of care is administered as quickly as possible. WCN is a network of vetted and approved zoos, aquariums, non-governmental organizations, universities, botanical gardens, and certified animal sanctuaries that U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service can call on for help in the event of a confiscation. Lincoln Park Zoo is one of nearly 40 WCN partners, creating a national support network for illegally trafficked wildlife.

“At Lincoln Park Zoo, we say that we’re ‘For Wildlife. For All.,’ and that extends to even the smallest amphibian or songbird being trafficked into or out of the country,” said Sunny Nelson, Vice President of Conservation and Science at Lincoln Park Zoo. “We’re excited to join the Wildlife Confiscations Network and grow our relationship with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to help provide critical care for confiscated wildlife.”

Lincoln Park Zoo has a longstanding relationship with O’Hare International Airport and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service when it comes to wildlife trafficking. The zoo has provided short and long-term care for hundreds of animals that were confiscated by USFWS at the Chicago airport. In 2023, Lincoln Park Zoo, Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and USFWS teamed up to present an exhibit at O’Hare’s primarily international Terminal 5, informing travelers flying in and out of the U.S. about global wildlife trafficking and how they can help put an end to the illegal trade. Lincoln Park Zoo also provides USFWS with rhinoceros horn and nail trimmings obtained during routine care to help train wildlife detector dogs. The dogs learn to detect the scent of these trimmings and then scan bags and luggage for this commonly trafficked animal product, among others.

Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to mitigating wildlife trafficking through research-backed solutions as well. The zoo is the first North American partner of Monitor Conservation Research Society, an international organization that investigates wildlife trafficking and advises on policy and conservation interventions. Through this partnership, Lincoln Park Zoo supports Monitor with research, using science to better understand the issues facing animals at high risk for trafficking.

The illegal trafficking of wildlife products is driving the wild population decline of many species. This illicit trade is valued at up to $20 billion per year, behind only drugs, weapons, and human trafficking. In addition to its devastating impacts on wildlife populations, the illegal wildlife trade puts humans at risk, increasing the chances of diseases threatening wildlife and human health. Learn more about wildlife trafficking and what Lincoln Park Zoo is doing to combat the illegal trade here.

About Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org.

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