Characterization and Extent of Illegal Trade in Jaguars and Other Felid Species via Social Media in Mexico

ABSTRACT The widespread use of online platforms and social media has undoubtedly facilitated the expansion of the illegal wildlife trade into global markets. Given the increase of evidence of jaguar ( Panthera onca ) trade through online platforms in Mexico, our objective was to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of online trade of jaguar and other wild felid parts. Our study focused on researching four main aspects related to the online trade of wild felids. First, we evaluated the scale of the online trade of jaguars and other wild felid species in Mexico. Second, we explored the locations where this activity is taking place and potential routes used for trade. Third, we analyzed the use given to the felid's parts. Finally, we estimated the potential number of animals traded through online platforms. We found 713 posts that included elements of wild felids trade in Mexico, with 60 locations and 157 users. Nine species were identified, including five native species to Mexico and four non‐native species. Our findings strongly assert that the trade of jaguars and other wild felid species parts through online platforms poses an imminent threat to these species. Data collected indicate that the online trade of these species has evolved into a widespread activity that is not solely opportunistic or locally focused. This suggests the existence of a more complex network in which online platforms facilitate communication between traders in Mexico and potential buyers in other countries. Online illegal trade of wild felids in Mexico was estimated to have involved at least ~$2,000,000 USD over the last 10 years. It is crucial to encourage local authorities to implement online platform monitoring and develop intervention strategies to prevent this activity from reaching unsustainable levels that could significantly impact the wild populations of these species.