Outrage Over the Exotic Pet Trade: The Exploitation of Kangaroos Must End
The Horrific Reality of the Exotic Pet Trade
The exotic pet trade is a relentless industry that exploits wildlife for profit, human entertainment, and ego. Among the many victims of this cruelty are kangaroos—Australia’s iconic wildlife—who are being torn from their natural habitats, reduced to commodities, and subjected to lives of confinement, mistreatment, and misery. The scale of this exploitation is staggering, and the examples are endless. A simple Google search for "exotic pets in the USA" will unveil an overwhelming list of species being bred, sold, or hunted, highlighting just how normalised this exploitation has become.
At facilities like Dragonstone Ranch in Texas, kangaroos are marketed as "tame, bottle-raised" pets, with prices ranging from $2,500 to over $5,000 per joey. They’re packaged for convenience, complete with care kits of bottles, teats, and kangaroo pellets, as if these wild creatures were merely collectibles for the affluent. The ranch even promotes the sale of "starter mobs" for those seeking to own groups of kangaroos, stripping away any acknowledgment of their complex needs as wild animals. This is not conservation—it’s commodification.
In hunting ranges like Ox Ranch and Texas Hunt Lodge, kangaroos are treated as trophies for hunters, offering pay-to-kill experiences for those willing to shell out thousands of dollars. These facilities advertise kangaroo hunts with no seasonal restrictions, marketing them as exotic animals that can be shot on sight. Kangaroos, who belong in the open landscapes of Australia, are reduced to targets in faraway lands. It’s a tragic betrayal of their existence, completely disregarding their dignity, ecological roles, and welfare.
The exotic pet trade’s cruelty is further exemplified by the shocking sight of two kangaroos being sold at the Cleburne Horse Auction. These iconic Australian animals were confined to a horse stall, with labels affixed to their bottoms as if they were mere commodities. The image of these kangaroos, stripped of their dignity and natural freedom, highlights the dehumanising nature of this trade. Instead of hopping through the open landscapes of Australia, they were reduced to objects for sale, surrounded by unfamiliar and stressful conditions. This blatant disregard for their welfare underscores the urgent need to end the exotic pet trade and protect kangaroos from such exploitation.
It doesn’t stop there. Videos on social media perpetuate the harmful commodification of kangaroos. In one video shared by Plant-Based Gabriel, a joey is seen trapped in a bathtub, surrounded by three children. The joey’s terrified eyes speak volumes, revealing the stress of being handled in such an unnatural environment. Later, the same joey is shown running around with nappies, with bare patches on its hips—clear signs of neglect and improper care. This is not love or affection; it’s exploitation packaged for likes and views.
Even well-intentioned individuals can unintentionally normalise harmful practices. Sir Richard Branson’s video showcasing a joey being bottle-fed while lying on the ground, its head unsupported, at his Virgin Islands sanctuary raised questions about why kangaroos—wild animals native to Australia—are being kept and showcased thousands of miles away from their natural habitats. While the intention might have been to display care, the effect further reinforces the notion that kangaroos are suitable for captivity, when the reality is far from it. Where is this babies mother??
Their claim: We’ve welcomed two kangaroos to the thriving animal community on Necker Island. They were in need of a new home, the environment in the BVI is perfect for them & we got all the necessary permits and medical checks carried out.
My Claim: Now you need to learn how to take care of them properly.
“Drugged for Selfies: The Sickening Truth Behind a Kangaroo’s Life in an Aceh Zoo”
The Price of a Selfie: A Kangaroo’s Silent Suffering in Aceh
It was the image no wildlife lover ever wants to see.
A kangaroo, native to the wide open bushlands of Australia, slumped unnaturally still in a concrete enclosure in an Acehnese zoo, Indonesia. His eyes glazed, his body limp—not from rest, but from sedation. Why? So visitors could get close, take photos, and leave with a souvenir smile.
This gentle soul, built to bounce across the wild, was being chemically subdued for entertainment. A life meant to be lived under the sun and stars, reduced to a photo prop.
Reports revealed that the kangaroo was regularly sedated to keep him calm and compliant for visitor interactions. It’s not only cruel—it’s dangerous. Sedation isn’t a long-term solution. It compromises immune systems, damages organs, and leads to long-term psychological trauma. Wild animals are not designed for constant human contact. They are not playthings. They are not attractions.
At Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary, we know how sensitive and easily stressed kangaroos are. A falling leaf can send one into panic. Now imagine one confined to concrete, drugged for docility, touched and posed with all day long. It’s not kindness—it’s cruelty masked as curiosity.
This story is a painful reminder that not all encounters with animals are created equal. Just because it’s available doesn’t make it ethical.
So what can you do?
Don’t support zoos or wildlife parks that allow up-close selfies with wild animals.
Educate others about the damage these practices cause.
Support sanctuaries and rescue groups that put animal welfare before profit.
Every wild animal deserves dignity, not sedation.
Let’s keep our kangaroos wild and free—where they belong.
When Wild Becomes a Spectacle: Zookeepers Intervene in Kangaroo Fight
A recent video circulating online shows zookeepers in China scrambling to break up a fight between two kangaroos in captivity. For many, it might have seemed like a bizarre or even humorous moment—but for those of us who care for kangaroos every day, it was anything but funny.
Let’s be clear: kangaroos don’t fight for fun. In the wild, boxing and sparring are part of natural dominance behavior among males, especially during mating season. It’s ritualistic, instinctual, and part of their social structure. But in captivity, things are different.
In a zoo setting—often with limited space, no real escape options, and little enrichment—natural behaviors can quickly escalate into stress-fueled aggression. What we saw in that video wasn’t a healthy, wild interaction. It was frustration. Confinement. Fear.
And the fact that zookeepers had to jump in and physically separate them? That’s a flashing red light. In the wild, kangaroos settle disputes with movement—chasing, backing off, posturing. In a cage or enclosure, there’s no room for that natural release.
At Amaris, we know firsthand how delicate kangaroo social dynamics are. They’re sensitive, highly strung, and easily startled. One wrong move, one sudden noise, even a gust of wind can set them running in panic. Imagine how heightened that stress becomes in an artificial environment where their needs and instincts aren't fully understood or respected.
This incident should not be dismissed as an amusing clip—it’s a call to rethink how we keep and care for wildlife in captivity. Kangaroos are not entertainment. They are wild animals with complex needs. Needs that can’t be met in small, artificial enclosures.
Every kangaroo deserves the space to roam, the freedom to be wild, and the dignity of being seen not as a prop or spectacle—but as the living, breathing wonders they are.
“Kangaroo Fight Ends in Broken Shovel and Suspension: Disturbing Zoo Incident Sparks Welfare Concerns”
A recent incident at a zoo in Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, China, has sparked significant concern regarding animal welfare practices. On February 12, 2024, two kangaroos engaged in a prolonged and intense fight within their enclosure. In an attempt to separate them, a female zoo worker intervened using a shovel, which ultimately broke during the effort. The confrontation was witnessed by visitors, and the staff member reportedly requested that they cease filming the event. Following the incident, the zoo management suspended the employee for her handling of the situation, citing concerns over the escalation of the animals' aggression and the methods used to intervene .Nevsedoma+1Newsflare+1Newsflare
This event underscores the challenges and ethical considerations associated with keeping wild animals in captivity, particularly in environments that may not adequately cater to their behavioral and physiological needs. Kangaroos, being naturally territorial and social animals, require ample space and appropriate social structures to express their innate behaviors. Incidents like this highlight the importance of ensuring that captive environments are designed and managed to promote the well-being of the animals, minimizing stress and preventing aggressive encounters.
At Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary, we advocate for the highest standards of animal welfare and the importance of providing environments that allow animals to thrive naturally. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the responsibilities we hold in caring for wildlife, emphasizing the need for continuous evaluation and improvement of animal care practices worldwide.
The exploitation extends to facilities like Mandalay Farms in Florida, where kangaroos are kept as “ambassador animals.” The farm openly markets its three female red kangaroos—Bindi, Kali, and Sydney—as curiosities for visitors. At Tri Lakes Exotics they describe how the joeys like to "watch TV" or "hang on couches," as if such behaviors are appropriate to expect of wild animals. Kangaroos are not meant to live indoors, wear diapers, or be confined to artificial environments. Their natural instincts are to roam, dig in the dirt, graze on grass and leaves, and interact with their environments—not to entertain human whims.
These examples are far from isolated. They are part of a larger, deeply troubling pattern of wildlife exploitation in the exotic pet trade. Whether sold as pets, paraded as ambassadors, or hunted as trophies, kangaroos and other wild animals are being treated as commodities rather than living beings. This trade feeds on novelty, greed, and ignorance, leaving a trail of suffering for the animals involved.
Baby kangaroos in nappies on sale in Texas for $7000 Tri Lakes Exotics
Nigel, a three-year-old pet kangaroo, was reunited with his Texas family after a two-day search. He escaped from his backyard in Granbury, North Texas, after being startled by drilling noise from a nearby property.
His owner, Briana Lafleur, immediately launched a community-wide search, involving neighbors, law enforcement, drones, and scent dogs. . Nigel, who is bottle-fed and wears a diaper, was found with scratches and swelling but is now safe at home.
The incident involving Nigel, the pet kangaroo, escaping and enduring a two-day search in Texas is deeply troubling. It underscores the inherent risks and ethical concerns of keeping exotic animals as pets. Nigel's distress, caused by drilling noise, and the subsequent frantic search involving drones and scent dogs, highlight the challenges and dangers these animals face in non-native environments. This situation is a stark reminder that kangaroos, and other wildlife, belong in their natural habitats where they can thrive without the stress and hazards of human interference. The practice of keeping such animals in captivity overseas must be critically examined and addressed to prevent further distressing incidents like this
“This Broke My Heart: Kangaroos Are Not Playthings”
This morning, 07/06/2025 I came across a series of photos on Facebook that left me absolutely appalled. In these images, kangaroos—our iconic, wild, and deeply misunderstood native animals—were dressed up in coats, costumes, and even Santa outfits. People were smiling, liking, and sharing these posts as if they were harmless fun. But let me be clear: this is not cute. This is not love. This is exploitation.
Kangaroos are not dolls. They are not toys. They are not your quirky backyard pets to be paraded around in human clothes for social media clout. These animals are built for the harsh, arid conditions of the Australian outback—not for suburban backyards where the climate is so cold they need to be wrapped in coats. If your environment is so unsuitable that you have to dress a kangaroo to keep it warm, then it is not an environment fit for a kangaroo. Full stop.
Yes, this may be legal. But legality does not equal morality. Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.
What I saw was not love. It was ownership. It was control. It was a complete disregard for the natural dignity of these animals. Dressing up a red kangaroo for entertainment is not affection—it’s objectification. It reduces a wild, sentient being to a novelty item, a prop for your next viral post.
At Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary, we fight every day to protect and rehabilitate native wildlife. We know what it means to truly care for these animals—to respect their wildness, their instincts, their needs. True love for wildlife means letting them be wild. It means advocating for their protection, not parading them around like circus acts.
If you truly care about kangaroos, stop treating them like pets. Stop dressing them up. Stop exploiting them for likes. Start respecting them for what they are: wild animals who deserve to live free, not fashionable.
Let’s end this trend. Let’s speak up. Let’s protect our wildlife from the exotic pet trade and the social media circus that fuels it.
Gardaí investigating claims kangaroo given alcohol at party
Disturbing video footage shows a man pretending to perform a sex act on the animal. (2010)
The man whose party it was denied that the kangaroo was given ecstasy or alcohol . The origin of the kangaroo was unclear, and there were conflicting reports about what happened to it afterward . The hotel where the incident took place expressed horror at the situation. The investigation into the incident involving the kangaroo at the Dublin party revealed conflicting reports. Gardaí and the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) received complaints and launched an inquiry.. However, there was no conclusive evidence about the animal's fate . Some sources suggested the kangaroo might have died, but this was not confirmed . The animal's whereabouts remains unknown,
An outraged Australian man has offered a cash reward for information about the cruel treatment of the animal in a nightclub.
I am choosing not to share photos or video footage of this incident because it is too distressing and upsetting. The images are deeply disturbing and I believe it is more important to focus on raising awareness and demanding justice without causing further emotional harm. Let's raise our voices and demand justice for this kangaroo and ensure that such incidents never happen again.
The recent incident involving Sheila, the runaway kangaroo, shutting down an Alabama interstate is a glaring example of the dangers and ethical issues surrounding the exotic pet trade. Sheila was spotted hopping alongside Interstate 85, causing traffic chaos and even a crash. Police had to surround the area, and her owner used a dart to tranquilize her . This distressing event highlights the irresponsibility of keeping wild animals as pets, far from their natural habitats. Kangaroos, like Sheila, belong in the wild, not confined to enclosures where they can escape and endanger themselves and others. The exotic pet trade must be critically examined and regulated to prevent such incidents and ensure the welfare of these magnificent creatures. It's time to prioritise the well-being of wildlife over the novelty of owning exotic pets
"A Fatal Encounter at a U.S. Petting Zoo Sparks Urgent Questions About Wildlife in Captivity"
18/05/2025
A tragic incident at 5 Star Farm, a petting zoo in South Carolina, has reignited concerns about the exploitation of native Australian wildlife overseas. Eric Slate, 52, was fatally injured after entering a red kangaroo’s enclosure and reportedly roughhousing with the animal. The kangaroo, a large male named Mr. Jack, reacted defensively, causing fatal blunt force trauma. While authorities confirmed the animal will not be euthanized, the event highlights the risks of keeping powerful wild animals in unnatural, confined settings for human entertainment.
Wildlife experts have long warned against the captivity of kangaroos outside their native habitat. “Kangaroos are not naturally aggressive, but they can become defensive when stressed or provoked,” says ecologist Dr. Kylie Soanes. These animals, often misunderstood and mishandled in petting zoos, are subjected to environments that ignore their behavioral needs. As conservationist Jane Goodall once noted, “Wild animals belong in the wild.” This tragedy should serve as a wake-up call to rethink how we treat wildlife—not as novelties, but as sentient beings deserving of respect and protection.
Man died of ‘blunt force injuries’ at US zoo after suspected kangaroo fight
Kangaroo Butchered in Cyprus Parking Lot
In early May 2025, a man was arrested in Deryneia, Cyprus, after being caught butchering a kangaroo in the parking lot of an apartment complex. The 36-year-old suspect, who was reportedly residing illegally in Cyprus after his asylum application was rejected, was found with plastic bags containing kangaroo parts, an axe, and five knives.
Authorities traced the kangaroo to a private animal facility in the Famagusta district, owned by a Greek Cypriot. The farm is now under investigation for potentially illegal possession and sale of exotic animals. The kangaroo was allegedly delivered already dead, but a post-mortem examination was scheduled to confirm this
🛑 Public and Legal Outcry
The incident sparked outrage from animal welfare groups and the public. The Cyprus Animal Party condemned the act and called for stricter enforcement of laws regulating exotic animal ownership. They highlighted the broader issue of unregistered and illegal facilities housing exotic species like kangaroos, elephants, and tigers—animals unsuited to Cyprus’s climate and conditions
Veterinary Services and police are continuing investigations into whether the animals at the farm were properly registered, as required by a 2021 law that criminalized the unlicensed keeping of exotic species
Three charged in Deryneia kangaroo slaughter case
Three to face court over Deryneia kangaroo killing case
Kangaroo slaughter case puts spotlight on exotic animal laws in Cyprus
Unexpected Sightings: A Wallaby in Saxony (Switzerland)
In March 2025, residents of Schönbach, a rural district in Sebnitz, Saxon Switzerland (Germany), were stunned when a wallaby was spotted hopping along a country road. A local managed to snap a photo before the marsupial disappeared into the woods, prompting a police search. Authorities suspect the animal may have escaped from a private exotic animal collection—yet another example of how Australian wildlife ends up far from home, often in unsuitable and unregulated environments.
This incident, while less tragic than others, underscores the global fascination with kangaroos and wallabies—and the risks that come with keeping them in captivity outside their native habitat. Whether through escape, neglect, or mishandling, these animals often pay the price for human curiosity and commercial interest.
The Shingleback Lizard Trade
In another alarming case of Australian wildlife exploitation, a Shingleback lizard—also known as a bobtail—was seized at Perth Airport by Western Australia’s Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions in early 2025. This slow-moving, docile reptile is a favorite among exotic pet collectors overseas, making it a prime target for wildlife traffickers.
A recent study by the University of Adelaide and the Monitor Conservation Research Society revealed that all four subspecies of Shinglebacks are being trafficked internationally, with some—like the Rottnest Island subspecies—classified as threatened. Between 2009 and 2020, over 260 Shinglebacks were intercepted en route to countries like Hong Kong, Japan, and Sweden, while 236 were seized within WA alone. These lizards can fetch up to $20,000 on the black market.
“They don’t tend to travel far from where they live and their defenses... are not all that daunting. So they can be easily captured even by unskilled people,” said Adam Toomes, a conservation researcher involved in the study.
This case underscores the urgent need for stronger enforcement and public awareness to protect Australia’s unique and vulnerable wildlife from being commodified and smuggled abroad.
Shingleback lizard seized at Perth airport by Western Australia's Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions
Kangaroos in Bengal: A Trafficking Tale That Baffled a Nation
In one of the most bizarre wildlife trafficking cases in recent memory, kangaroos were found roaming the forests and highways of West Bengal, India, in early 2022—thousands of kilometers from their native Australia. The marsupials, later named Alex, Xavier, and Lucas, were discovered in a distressed state near the Gajoldoba forest and surrounding areas. Tragically, Lucas died from dehydration and malnutrition, while the others were rescued and rehabilitated at the North Bengal Safari Park
The case left Indian forestry officials stunned. “We didn’t know what to do as we’d never seen one before in real life,” said Hari Krishnan, a divisional forest officer
. Videos of the kangaroos hopping along roads went viral, sparking public outrage and confusion. Investigations revealed that the animals were likely smuggled into India by exotic pet traffickers. Just weeks earlier, two men from Hyderabad were arrested while attempting to transport a kangaroo in a goods vehicle
This incident not only exposed the growing demand for exotic pets in India but also highlighted the global reach of wildlife trafficking networks. As Jose Louies of the Wildlife Trust of India noted, “India is becoming a global destination for exotic pets”
Smuggled kangaroos leave Indian forestry officials mystified
Wildlife trafficking gangs have a new commodity to smuggle through India – kangaroos, confounding officials who have never seen them.
Kangaroos intercepted in anti-smuggling operation in India
Kangaroo Breeding in Thailand
While kangaroos are not native to Thailand, there have been documented cases of red kangaroos and wallabies being bred or kept in private collections and roadside zoos. These animals are often imported under questionable circumstances and may be bred for display, sale, or as exotic pets. Thailand’s Wild Animal Conservation and Protection Act (B.E. 2562/2019) allows for the import and breeding of exotic species under strict licensing, but enforcement is inconsistent
🛑 Illegal Trade and Loopholes
Thailand is a known hub for the illegal exotic animal trade, with markets like Chatuchak Market in Bangkok openly selling protected and non-native species, often in poor conditions
. While kangaroos are not commonly seen in these markets, their presence in private facilities and zoos has raised concerns about animal welfare, legality, and the ethics of breeding non-native wildlife for commercial purposes.
Recent Enforcement Efforts
In 2024, Thai authorities conducted a major crackdown on illegal wildlife trafficking, applauded by the Wildlife Justice Commission
However, enforcement remains reactive rather than preventative, and exotic species like kangaroos can still be found in unregulated or poorly monitored facilities.
Behind the Bars: The Ethics of Exotic Animal Displays in Tourism Zoos
While exotic animal parks and zoos in Thailand—such as Safari World Bangkok, Khao Kheow Open Zoo, and Chiang Mai Zoo—draw thousands of tourists each year, they also raise serious ethical questions about the treatment and welfare of non-native species like kangaroos, wallabies, and emus.
These animals are often kept in environments that fall short of replicating their natural habitats. Kangaroos, for example, are highly social and require large open spaces to move freely. In many tourism-focused zoos, they are confined to small enclosures, exposed to constant human interaction, and sometimes used in photo opportunities or feeding sessions that can cause stress and behavioral issues.
The sourcing of these animals is another concern. While some facilities claim to breed animals in captivity, the lack of transparency and regulation in the exotic animal trade makes it difficult to verify whether animals were ethically acquired. In some cases, animals may be imported under questionable circumstances or through legal loopholes that prioritize profit over welfare.
Moreover, these displays often promote the idea that wild animals exist for human entertainment, rather than fostering genuine conservation awareness. Without proper education and ethical standards, such attractions risk doing more harm than good.
As global awareness of animal welfare grows, it's crucial for travelers and conservation advocates to question the ethics behind these attractions—and to support sanctuaries and organisations that prioritize the well-being of wildlife over spectacle.
In Germany
We are looking for male wallabies.
We have plenty of space for the little ones, and they will be kept in species-appropriate conditions.
These attractive marsupials have become the latest must-have ‘pet’. In the past five years, UK wallaby breeders have reported a steady rise in demand, mainly from people wanting an unusual animal to help to keep the lawn trim and be a talking point.
Wallabies cost £150 for a male and £600 to £700 for a female; the sought-after albinos can fetch £500 and £1,000 respectively. They’re always sold in at least a pair, as they’re group animals.
Kangaroos are complex creatures with specific behavioral, ecological, and nutritional needs. They are integral to Australia’s ecosystems and cultural identity, but their role in nature is continually undermined by the global demand for exotic pets. Captivity is not conservation—it’s cruelty. Every joey sold into the exotic pet trade, every kangaroo displayed in a backyard, and every animal hunted for sport represents another step away from respecting and protecting wildlife.
We must take a stand. Kangaroos belong in the wild, not in living rooms, bathtubs, or hunting ranges. Their suffering is not entertainment, and their existence is not a luxury for us to exploit. Stronger regulations and global awareness are essential to put an end to this needless cruelty. By speaking out, sharing these stories, and supporting organizations fighting to protect wildlife, we can help ensure that kangaroos and other exploited animals are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
The time to act is now. Kangaroos are not ours to own, sell, or kill—they are wild, sentient beings who deserve their freedom. Let’s work together to protect them and all wildlife from the horrors of the exotic pet trade. 🦘💔
Bizarre scene on the side of American road highlights country's 'real problem'
South Carolina residents couldn't believe their eyes when a kangaroo started bouncing down the road.
Is your kangaroo missing?
Deputy Gonzales has responded to a loose kangaroo wearing a red jacket in the area of Farek Loth and FM 609.
Yes we are serious... we couldn't make this up if we wanted to.
The abuse of a kangaroo in a Russian circus is a stark reminder of the cruelty inflicted on wildlife in the name of entertainment. In this horrifying case, a kangaroo was dressed in a pink tutu and forced to perform humiliating acts for an audience. The animal was subjected to exploitation and mistreatment, stripped of its dignity and natural behaviors. Circuses like this perpetuate the suffering of wild animals, confining them to unnatural environments and forcing them into stressful, degrading performances. This incident highlights the urgent need to end the use of animals in circuses and to advocate for their protection and freedom.
Rare albino wallaby found 15,000km from home
The discovery of a rare albino wallaby in the UK, far from its native Australia, has sparked concern and a search for answers. Found injured near Dover, Kent, the wallaby was in poor health and required veterinary attention. The RSPCA suspects it may have escaped from a private property or wildlife park, highlighting issues with non-native species being kept in captivity. This incident underscores the broader problem of Australian wildlife being held overseas, often leading to distressing situations for the animals involved. The RSPCA is seeking the owner to ensure proper care and prevent further occurrences.
14/04/2024
I came across this today
The Hidden Cruelty of Exploitation: Joeys Torn from Their Mothers
it was NOTa good day
The exotic pet trade often paints a picture of cute, cuddly animals that can be domesticated, but the reality is far more sinister. One of the most heartbreaking practices involves forcibly removing joeys from their mothers’ pouches. This act is not only traumatic for the joey but also devastating for the mother, who experiences immense stress and loss.
Kangaroo mothers form deep bonds with their young, nurturing them in their pouches until they are ready to face the world. When a joey is ripped away, the mother is left distressed, and the joey is robbed of the safety and warmth it desperately needs. To make matters worse, some individuals dismiss the mother’s suffering, claiming she is “relieved” to have her joey taken. This statement is not only ignorant but also a gross misrepresentation of kangaroo behavior. Another claim by the owners is that “We pull all of our joeys at six months to provide a better opportunity for survival. I assure you our animals especially our kangaroos are very well taken care of!” The claim that pulling joeys from their mothers at six months provides them with "a better opportunity for survival" is deeply concerning and misleading. In reality, separating joeys from their mothers disrupts the natural processes critical to their development and well-being. Kangaroo mothers provide their joeys with warmth, nourishment, security, and protection within the pouch. Removing them prematurely deprives them of these essentials, which are vital for their survival, both physically and emotionally. While establishments may claim that their animals are "well taken care of," the truth lies in the methods used to handle and interact with them. Wildlife is not meant to be commodified or exploited under the guise of care and conservation. True care respects an animal’s natural behaviors and prioritizes its well-being over profit or entertainment.
The stress inflicted on joeys during such separations can lead to myopathy, a fatal condition caused by extreme stress. This condition results in muscle damage, paralysis, and often death. The exotic pet trade’s disregard for the well-being of these animals highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations and greater public awareness.
Wildlife is not here for human amusement or profit. Kangaroos are iconic symbols of Australia’s natural heritage, and their exploitation must end. By educating ourselves and others, we can take a stand against these cruel practices and advocate for the ethical treatment of all wildlife.
Please write a google review HERE. The post has since been removed but there are other posts that show this is common practice.
If you're outraged by the exotic pet trade and want to take action, here are some key places and organisations you can write to or contact:
Australian Government:
Contact the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to advocate for stricter export and trade regulations for native wildlife.
Write to your local Member of Parliament to push for stronger laws against the exploitation of kangaroos and other wildlife.
United States Government:
Reach out to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to demand tighter restrictions on the import and sale of exotic animals, including kangaroos.
Contact your state representatives to advocate for bans on exotic pet ownership and trophy hunting.
Animal Welfare Organizations:
World Animal Protection: They actively campaign against the exotic pet trade and can amplify your concerns.
Humane Society International: They work globally to combat wildlife exploitation.
Born Free Foundation: They focus on ending the exploitation of wild animals in captivity.
Local Authorities:
In Australia, report illegal wildlife trade or concerns to Crime Stoppers Victoria or your state’s wildlife authority.
In the U.S., report exotic pet trade violations to local animal control or wildlife agencies.
Social Media and Public Campaigns:
Use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to tag and pressure organizations, businesses, and policymakers involved in or enabling the exotic pet trade.
Share petitions and campaigns from organizations like Change.org or Avaaz to gather public support.
Write to Facilities and Sellers:
Directly contact facilities like Dragonstone Ranch, Mandalay Farms, or hunting ranges like Ox Ranch and Texas Hunt Lodge to express your concerns about their practices.
Every letter, email, or social media post adds to the collective voice demanding change. Let’s keep the pressure on and fight for a future where kangaroos and all wildlife are respected and protected. 🦘💔
It is still possible to export kangaroos and wallabies overseas, but the process is heavily regulated under Australian law. The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) governs the export of native wildlife, including kangaroos and wallabies. Here are the key points:
Permitted Species: Only certain species of kangaroos and wallabies can be exported, such as red kangaroos, eastern grey kangaroos, western grey kangaroos, and some wallaby species like the Tammar wallaby and Bennett's wallaby. These species are considered abundant and not endangered.
Export Conditions: Exports are typically allowed for specific purposes, such as conservation breeding, research, education, or exhibition. Commercial exports for meat or hides are also permitted under strict management plans2.
Management Plans: Any export must comply with state-approved management plans that include quotas and population monitoring to ensure sustainability. These plans are reviewed annually to prevent overharvesting.
Non-Commercial Exports: For non-commercial purposes, such as zoos or sanctuaries, applicants must demonstrate that the export aligns with conservation goals and meets the criteria set out in the EPBC Act3.
While these regulations aim to ensure sustainability and humane treatment, the export of live kangaroos and wallabies for private ownership or exotic pet purposes is highly controversial. Many argue that stricter controls are needed to prevent exploitation and ensure the welfare of these animals.
The export of kangaroos and wallabies for the exotic pet trade or other purposes inflicts severe cruelty and has catastrophic consequences for these animals. The stress and suffering they endure begins from the moment they are removed from their natural habitats and continues throughout their lives in captivity. Here are the key issues:
Cruelty and Suffering During Transport
Exporting live kangaroos and wallabies involves grueling journeys that are profoundly distressing for these wild animals:
Stress During Capture: The process of capturing and handling kangaroos causes immense physical and psychological stress. These animals are not accustomed to close human contact, and even small stressors can lead to life-threatening conditions like stress myopathy, a condition where extreme anxiety causes muscle damage, weakness, and even death.
Confinement and Transport: Kangaroos are crammed into cramped cages for long-haul international flights, often in dark and noisy cargo holds. The inability to move freely, coupled with unfamiliar surroundings, leaves them frightened and vulnerable. Dehydration, injury, and exhaustion are common during transport.
Challenges in a New Country
Once exported, kangaroos face a world of challenges in environments that are completely foreign to them:
Unfamiliar Climate and Habitat: Kangaroos are highly adapted to Australia’s unique ecosystems. Placing them in environments with different climates, vegetation, and terrain leads to immense stress. For example, kangaroos require wide-open spaces to graze, hop, and display their natural behaviors—something that captivity in small enclosures cannot provide.
Improper Diet: In captivity, kangaroos are often fed diets that do not meet their nutritional needs. Their specialized grazing habits, which include consuming native grasses and shrubs, cannot be replicated with commercial feeds or pellets. Poor nutrition leads to digestive issues, malnourishment, and a weakened immune system.
Lack of Environmental Enrichment: Kangaroos are highly active animals that need to dig, graze, and interact with their surroundings. In many cases, captivity deprives them of these activities, causing boredom, frustration, and abnormal behaviors like pacing or self-harm.
Long-Term Psychological and Physical Harm
Stress Myopathy: This condition is particularly common in kangaroos and can be triggered by prolonged stress during transport, handling, and captivity. It causes severe muscle damage, weakness, and an inability to move properly. Many exported kangaroos suffer from this condition, leading to early deaths.
Chronic Stress and Fear: Kangaroos are prey animals by nature, and captivity in unfamiliar environments heightens their fear and anxiety. Constant exposure to stress weakens their overall health and shortens their lifespans.
Skin and Joint Problems: Animals kept in enclosures with hard surfaces or inappropriate bedding often develop sores, bare patches, and joint issues. For instance, joeys kept in diapers and hard-floored enclosures frequently suffer from bare hips and pressure sores.
Moral and Ecological Implications
Exporting kangaroos not only harms individual animals but also undermines Australia’s conservation efforts:
Disruption of Ecosystems: Removing kangaroos from their native environment disrupts ecosystems that rely on them for grazing and vegetation control.
Commodification of Wildlife: Treating kangaroos as objects for profit reinforces the exploitation of wildlife globally. It normalizes cruelty and undermines efforts to protect wild populations.
The Urgent Need for Action
The cruelty inflicted upon kangaroos through the export trade cannot be ignored. Australia must take stronger action to close loopholes in export laws to ensure these animals cannot be sold into private collections, exotic pet facilities, or other exploitative industries abroad. Global awareness and public pressure are key to ending this heartbreaking trade.
Wild animals like kangaroos belong in their natural environments, hopping freely under the open skies of Australia—not caged, starved, and traumatized in foreign lands. Share this message, speak out, and demand that kangaroos are treated with the respect and protection they deserve. Together, we can work to end the unnecessary suffering of these iconic creatures.
Organisations to write to or contact listed above.
The export of kangaroos and wallabies, while heavily regulated, raises important questions about their welfare and the true intent behind such practices. Let's explore the complexities:
Regulated Export Framework
Under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), kangaroo and wallaby exports are allowed, provided they meet strict guidelines. Only certain species, such as red kangaroos, eastern grey kangaroos, and western grey kangaroos, along with wallaby species like Tammar wallabies and Bennett's wallabies, are eligible for export. These species are not considered threatened, and their populations are monitored through annual quotas and management plans.
Exports typically fall into specific categories:
Commercial purposes: Kangaroo meat and hides are allowed for export, provided they comply with sustainable harvesting practices.
Non-commercial purposes: These include research, conservation breeding programs, and zoo or sanctuary transfers. For instance, kangaroos may be sent overseas to help educate the public or promote conservation awareness.
Controversial Practices
However, some exports end up fueling the exotic pet trade, where kangaroos and wallabies are sold to individuals or kept in private facilities. Despite the EPBC Act regulations, there have been instances of misuse:
Kangaroos sold into private collections overseas often live in unnatural environments that fail to meet their physical and emotional needs.
Breeding facilities in countries like the United States market kangaroos and wallabies as “rare pets,” completely ignoring their wild nature and complex needs.
Kangaroos are also used as exotic attractions, with some facilities showcasing them as ambassador animals, keeping them far removed from their native Australian habitat.
Impact of Export
The export of kangaroos and wallabies can have severe consequences:
Disruption of Ecosystems: Removing animals from their natural habitat weakens the ecosystems they support, including vegetation management and predator-prey dynamics.
Stress and Suffering: Wild animals are often subjected to stressful and unnatural conditions during transport and captivity, leading to severe health and behavioral issues.
Normalization of Exploitation: Kangaroos being exported for exotic pet ownership or display reinforces the harmful perception that they are suitable for private ownership or confinement.
Calls for Action
While the Australian government regulates exports, there is a growing need for stricter enforcement to prevent kangaroos and wallabies from entering exploitative situations overseas. Advocates call for:
Closing loopholes: Tighten guidelines to ensure exported wildlife cannot be used as pets, attractions, or trophy animals.
International cooperation: Work with other countries to prevent the exploitation of Australian wildlife abroad.
Public awareness: Educate the global community about the unethical treatment of exported kangaroos and wallabies.
The current export framework may aim to support sustainability and conservation, but as kangaroos and wallabies face exploitation far from their natural habitats, there’s an urgent need to reassess its effectiveness. Every kangaroo and wallaby deserves the freedom to thrive as a wild animal—not a commodity.
