Tell New York to Ban Endangered African Animal Imports!

We, the undersigned, are writing to support NY state Sen. Tony Avella's new bill to ban the sale, import and possession of certain endangered African animals. As you may know, five native African species -- the African elephant, lion, leopard, black rhino and white rhino -- currently face extinction due to illegal poaching and hunting.

Exotic animal poaching continues to be a problem in America because "trophy hunting" is seen as romantic and luxurious. According to Friends of Animals director Edita Birnkrant, sport hunting is dangerous even when done to raise funds for wildlife: "Sport hunting and the continued importation of sport-hunted species encourages people to believe that these species are not endangered, that their parts should be highly desired or that legal restrictions on their taking and possession can be disregarded. It reduces the stigma associated with killing these animals, increases government and private corruption in these poor nations, and most importantly, it spurs poaching by allowing illegal killing to be disguised as lawful sport-hunting."

Illegal poaching has increased dramatically in recent years. Since 2007, South Africa has seen a whopping 5,000 percent increase in rhino poaching. We respectfully urge you to stand against the exotic animal trade and vote "yes" on the bill to ban endangered African animal imports. Thank you for taking the time to read and consider our petition.