The proposal by 14 countries to include glass frogs in CITES Appendix II was adopted by consensus at CITES CoP19. Glass frogs are in high demand in the exotic pet trade because of their transparent skin and large eyes. Glass frog species are native to Central and South America, and illegal trade (including into the U.S.) has been a cause for serious concern. Ten species of glass frog are Critically Endangered, 28 species are Endangered, and 21 species are classified as Vulnerable.
This is the second time that this proposal has been brought to CITES, but it was rejected at the last Conference of the Parties. The decision to list these species onto CITES Appendix II is extremely important, and a major conservation victory, and means that their trade will now be subject to international regulations!
What is CITES?
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is an international agreement between governments that aims to ensure that international trade in wild animals and plants does not threaten species’ survival. CoPs (Conferences of Parties) are held every three years and provide an opportunity for member States and other stakeholders to review progress in species conservation in order to adopt or amend proposals related to international trade and species protection.
What is Born Free doing at CITES CoP19?
CoPs offer advocate organizations like Born Free the chance to push for stronger protections for imperiled species. This year, at CoP19, Born Free USA will actively work to increase international protections for wildlife threatened by unsustainable and illegal trade.
Follow Born Free USA on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, and keep an eye on our CITES hub, for updates from the Conference!
