Is it time to close down the exotic species trade?

[sedgequeen]

Rules or no rules, the exotic pet (and plant) trade will exist. Why? Because some people want strange pets and will pay money for them, and others will meet that demand. Yes, some of those exotic species will become weeds. Yes, exploitation will drive some species to extinction. So I would say, nibble around the edges of this, as we’re doing now. Prohibit trade in endangered species because this may reduce but won’t stop trade in species people want. Prohibit import of some species known to be problems. Enforce rules about caring for animals properly. Provide free spaying and neutering for dogs and cats. (And euthanize strays, I say, though that will arouse fury in some of you.) Most of all, educate. We can reduce the problems some, though they’ll never go away.