Research & Article

The Bangkok Weekend Market was surveyed for wildlife in trade on 25 weekends during 19 December 1987 to 11 December 1988. A total of 68,654 native birds of 225 species was recorded, together with 3,132 exotic birds of 51 species. 3,418 native mammals of at least 24 species were also found. Over 20% of all native birds counted and 75% of species observed were those in which trade is totally forbidden by law. Among the exotic species, both CITES Appendix I and Appendix II species were observed. Existing wildlife protection legislation in Thailand is inadequate and cannot be realistically enforced. It is suggested that the range of native birds in which trade is permitted be reduced to 7 species only. Trade in native mammals should be completely abolished.