Wildlife trafficking is a severe global crisis that forcibly removes animals from their natural environments, subjects them to indescribable suffering, and endangers the survival of entire species. In this illegal trade, animals are typically transported under horrifying conditions, crammed into crates, deprived of food and water, and regarded as mere commodities rather than recognized as sentient beings. However, there is still hope.
Congress has taken a critical step forward to confront this crisis head-on. The newly introduced Wildlife Confiscations Network Act of 2025 (H.R. 3538) lays the groundwork for stronger protections for trafficked animals. This bipartisan bill will ensure that wild animals seized at U.S. ports of entry are swiftly and appropriately placed in the hands of trained professionals, dramatically increasing their chances of recovery and survival.
The legislation, introduced by U.S. Representatives Andrew Garbarino (NY-02) and Mike Quigley (IL-05), aims to build a nationwide network that connects confiscated animals with qualified sanctuaries, zoos, and wildlife rehabilitators. It’s a bold move to systematize and fund the kind of specialized care these animals desperately need.
“IFAW has worked for years to educate the public about wildlife trafficking, reduce demand for wildlife parts and products in the US and abroad, and support robust enforcement of wildlife protection laws and treaties,” said Danielle Kessler, U.S. Country Director at IFAW. “We applaud the introduction of this important legislation, which, once enacted, will help to ensure that confiscated animals—many of whom are imperiled species, and are transported in heartbreaking conditions, denied food, water, the ability to move, and more—have the best possible chance of surviving and even thriving in the care of experts.”
Wild animals intercepted at U.S. borders often arrive injured, malnourished, and traumatized. Without immediate and specialized intervention, many will not survive. Some may be able to return to their wild homes, but many more require permanent sanctuary. From 2015 to 2019 alone, nearly 49,000 individual live animals were denied entry into the U.S., an average of 27 animals every single day, each in desperate need of help.
The Wildlife Confiscations Network has already made a significant difference, placing over 4,100 animals into qualified facilities, and responding to more than 135 trafficking cases since 2023.
“I am proud to introduce legislation that expands this law enforcement network nationwide, ensuring that law enforcement officers are not unduly placed in harm’s way, and animals receive the care they need,” said Congressman Quigley.
“The Wildlife Confiscations Network Act will build upon the success of a regional pilot program to place confiscated animals that has been in place since late 2023,” noted Kessler. “In fewer than two years, that network has been called upon to help with over 135 wildlife trafficking cases and has placed thousands of animals into qualified facilities. By codifying this program, Congress will ensure that this highly effective approach to placing and caring for captive wildlife can be expanded and sustained nationwide.”
This legislation represents a beacon of hope, for animals, for the ecosystems they belong to, and for a world increasingly determined to reject cruelty in favor of compassion. By passing the Wildlife Confiscations Network Act, Congress can help ensure that animals who have endured the darkest parts of humanity are protected.
