Poaching is a threat to wildlife heritage

  Poaching is the illegal hunting, fishing or other capture or destruction of mammals, birds, fish and other wildlife. In most cases, poaching is associated with valuable animal resources such as elephant tusks, rare birds and animals, beautiful animal fur, etc. 

  Poaching has the greatest impact in Africa, where various species of wild animals, including elephants, lions and leopards, are hunted for their valuable body parts. For example, elephants are a profitable target for poaching because of their tusks, which are used to make souvenirs and traditional medicine products. Also, the trade in elephant tusks works to finance terrorist acts in African regions. 

  Despite international efforts to combat poaching, the problem remains very pressing. This not only harms animal populations and their natural habitats, but also causes ecosystem imbalances. For example, the destruction of the lion population increases the number of other animals and can cause damage to the entire ecosystem. In addition, the extinction of rare species has cultural and aesthetic effects through the loss of biodiversity, which is an integral part of our planet's heritage. Due to the failure to prevent the killing of rhinos, there are currently only about 50 individuals left. 

  One of the main reasons why poaching is a big problem in Lithuania is the high unemployment rate and the lack of suitable living conditions for people in rural areas. Some people look for alternative ways to earn money and forget about the welfare of nature. This often paves the way for illegal fishing, hunting for food and trade in trophies. 

  One of the species that is often persecuted in Lithuania during poaching activities is the moose population. Moose are symbolic inhabitants of Lithuanian forests, but their number is rapidly decreasing due to illegal hunting. Poachers ignore hunting quotas and hunting season restrictions, causing long-term damage to the species. 

  Illegal fishing is another serious form of poaching in Lithuania. This not only harms the ecosystem of rivers and lakes, but also severely reduces fish populations, preventing them from regenerating and restoring their numbers. 

  The fight against poaching is a high priority for the government and a lot of effort is being made to tackle this crime. Among the measures the government is taking are increased fines for poaching and increased patrols by conservationists and police officers. There are also educational campaigns to educate the public about the effects of poaching and the importance of nature conservation. 

  In order to achieve a long-term result, it is necessary to strengthen the cooperation of state institutions with non-governmental organizations and involve local communities in the processes of nature protection and sustainable development. It is necessary to increase people's awareness of the value of natural heritage and promote sustainable use of natural resources. 

  Poaching is a serious problem that endangers our nature and the planet's heritage. Only strong and consistent international community action, combined with public awareness and education, can help prevent this horrific phenomenon and preserve our wonderful nature for future generations.