As the popularity of exotic pets continues to rise, concerns about conservation are also becoming more prevalent among their owners. A recent large-scale survey of exotic pet owners reveals that many are deeply concerned about the impact their pets may have on wild populations and are eager to take action to preserve these animals and their habitats. This article will examine the findings of this survey, exploring the attitudes and behaviors of exotic pet owners regarding conservation, and highlighting some of the strategies they are using to help protect endangered species.
A recent study conducted by the University of Helsinki, University of Jyväskylä, and University of Kent, delves into the motivations of over 300 exotic pet keepers across 33 countries. Through a survey that was translated into six languages, the researchers hoped to identify what drives demand among keepers and how sustainable trade can be addressed. The findings may help inform conservation strategies to ensure the protection of these species globally.
Exotic pet keeping has been known to contribute to unsustainable trade, leading to a negative impact on species conservation. The study found that while exotic pet keepers did have preferences for rare aesthetic or morphological traits in their pets, they were also concerned about conservation, preferring captive-bred exotic pets and/or species that were commonly found in the wild and available in the market. This suggests that respondents’ preferences may be aligned with at least some conservation objectives, such as sustainable use. Additionally, respondents disregarded animals of wild origin, under higher risk of extinction, and under trade restrictions.
The study highlights that the most important reasons for exotic pet keeping were relational motivations, such as caring about the exotic pet and being passionate about the species. According to Dr. Anna Hausmann, a conservation scientist leading the study, “Keepers may establish emotional relationships with their exotic pets and may be concerned by the fact that their interest and care does not impact, but instead supports the conservation of the species in the wild.”
However, the practices of breeding, trading, keeping, and other close contact opportunities, such as exotic pet cafes, present several conservation and animal welfare challenges. As a result, keeping exotic pets may not align with conservation goals. To ensure the protection of these species, the study suggests exploring alternative ways of practicing how people care about non-human natures, such as caring for species in their natural habitats through existing frameworks that provide insights to better understand how to foster meaningful expressions of care.
The study found that feelings of care and curiosity and being passionate about the species were dominant motivations for keeping exotic pets. According to Associate Professor Enrico Di Minin, the senior author of the study, “Certification systems of origin that support animal welfare and conservation may be one option to help support a more sustainable trade in exotic pet species. However, attention should be paid to challenges throughout the supply chain and not to incentivize consumers’ preferences for rare genetic features as this may pose a risk to the conservation of species in the wild.”
Understanding demand, and the role of relational dimensions, is crucial when planning conservation initiatives and policies to address wildlife trade, which is a major threat to biodiversity. As Dr. Anna Hausmann concludes, “Understanding demand, and the role of relational dimensions, are crucial when planning conservation initiatives and policies to address wildlife trade, which is a major threat to biodiversity.”
