Tokyo's animal cafes showcase small-clawed otters, greatly influencing their popularity online. However, conservationists warn that the growing demand links these otters to poaching in Thailand. A study highlighted DNA matches between otters in cafes and wild populations from poaching hotspots. Despite enjoying popularity, these vulnerable mammals' presence in cafes may stem from illegal trade, despite its ban in 2019. Otters are crucial for maintaining ecosystems, and mixed perceptions among cafe owners about contributing to conservation only complicate the issue further.
The booming demand for small-clawed otters in Tokyo's animal cafes is raising concerns among conservationists, linking them to poaching hotspots in Thailand.
Researchers found that the majority of the otters in animal cafes had DNA matches with those from illegal trade hotspots in Thailand, indicating potential poaching links.
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