Avoid Buying Exotic and Endangered Wildlife – Protect Nature Challenge

Each ecosystem lives in a delicately balanced state, here and elsewhere. Pets are often bred or transported long distances, without consideration for their natural habitat. Please do not make your pet the reason for ecosystem destruction.

Do not release exotic animals into the wild. Most household pets and live species in the fish market (such as Asian bighead carp) are not native to Canada. Therefore, they should not be released into the environment where they may pose a threat to native species. If you need to find a new home for an animal, contact your local humane society or pet store.

Do not buy souvenirs of endangered species. It is illegal to transport live specimens and products from endangered species across international borders. When traveling, know what species are endangered so that you do not purchase items that will perpetuate the trade in endangered species.

Find out more about what you can do to help biodiversity at Canada.ca/biodiversity.