Nearly 500 exotic animals seized in a fake refuge in Ávila

The Civil Guard has dismantled in Burgohondo (Ávila) a supposed wildlife refuge that, in reality, functioned as a base for a network dedicated to illegal trade in exotic animals. In the operation, framed in operation Suartx, agents seized 472 protected specimens, including leopard tortoises, spur-thighed tortoises, Mediterranean tortoises, iguanas, different types of geckos, tarantulas and Nile monitor lizards, valued at around 85,000 euros.

Many of these animals came from irregular transfers from several Spanish provinces and lacked mandatory documentation. Although part of the specimens were in acceptable conditions, agents also found hundreds of dead animals or in very poor condition, which has raised all alarms about the welfare conditions in which they were kept.

According to the investigation, those involved used the facade of a non-profit organization to raise funds through donations and social media campaigns. In addition, they offered courses and volunteer stays at the facilities without complying with labor regulations. Four individuals are being investigated for crimes against wildlife, fraud, document falsification, smuggling and membership in a criminal organization.

The case shows to what extent some centers can take advantage of growing social interest in animal welfare to cover up species trafficking activities. To avoid this, authorities recommend always checking the transparency of entities that manage refuges and sanctuaries, and being wary of projects that do not offer clear information about permits, funding and the status of animals.

At AtlasFauna we will closely follow this case and others like it to explain how the exotic animal business really works, what indicators should set off alarms and how citizens can support rescue and conservation initiatives that are serious and verifiable.