Spanish Authorities Bust Illegal Exotic Animal Trafficking Ring

In a major crackdown on wildlife trafficking, the Spanish Civil Guard has dismantled an illegal exotic animal trade operation based in the town of Nules. On August 25th, 2025, authorities raided an unlicensed pet store and discovered a menagerie of over 150 creatures from 56 different species, many of which are endangered or protected.

The two store owners, aged 30 and 35, had been selling these exotic animals online without the necessary permits. Their illicit activities came to light several months ago when officers spotted an advertisement offering "protected species for sale." Further investigation led them to videos of the men raising animals like leopards, owls, and llamas.

Among the seized creatures were two ring-tailed lemurs, a Bali starling, a zebra, five kinkajous, four ibises, and two meerkats. Some of these, such as the lemurs, starling, and Asian otters, have the highest international conservation status due to their endangered status. The total estimated value of the animals is nearly $81,500.

In addition, the raid uncovered three macaws, two of which had been reported stolen from a town in Almería, over 300 miles away. The Civil Guard is now working to return these birds to their rightful owners.

This latest bust comes just four months after authorities in the Balearic Islands dismantled another online trafficking operation involving big cats like white tigers, lynx, and pumas. The crackdown on the illegal wildlife trade in Spain appears to be intensifying as the government works to protect vulnerable species from exploitation.