Two people were arrested in Spain for allegedly selling exotic cats online. The Civil Guard conducted an operation in Manacor, Mallorca, where they seized 19 animals, including a caracal and two servals.
The investigation began in March of last year after authorities received tips about a couple in Palma who were reportedly breeding servals, caracals, and hybrids with domestic cats for sale on social media. During the operation, officials also discovered over 40 irregular animal passports from countries like Russia, Belarus, and China.
The suspects were found to be offering a variety of exotic felines for sale, including white tigers and clouded leopards, with prices reaching as high as €60,000 (around £51,000). They also advertised Eurasian lynxes, hyenas, black leopards, and pumas.
This trend of breeding and selling exotic pets has been particularly popular in Russia and Ukraine, and it is now spreading to other countries, according to authorities.
The animals seized in the operation will be sent to a rescue and rehabilitation center for exotic mammals located in Alicante. This incident highlights the ongoing issues surrounding the illegal wildlife trade and the importance of protecting these animals.