What's to Gain from Poaching?

A shot, a yell, a cry in the distance. People have been poaching animals for a very long time-- it has only been in the past few decades that it has become a severe problem. With the advent of new technology such as fast vehicles and accurate guns, poachers have been able to kill at a rate that has never been seen before. This has translated into the endangerment of many species.

Ivory. Source: afrikareporter.com

However, many may wonder: why poaching? What is there to gain from killing these animals? According to an article and infographic from the African Wildlife Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that seeks to stop poaching, "endangered animals are slaughtered so that a single body part- like tusks, pelt, or bones- can be illegally sold for huge sums of money." (Africa's Poaching Crisis). Most hunters seek to get either ivory or rhino horn. Ivory is the tusk of an elephant and an artistic material, used to carve figurines and jewelry for all kinds of purposes. Rhino horn, on the other hand, is believed to have medicinal properties that can cure ailments anywhere from fever to cancer. Studies have shown that it does none of the above; yet, many cultures still want it based on tradition and personal belief. It is difficult to obtain either of the two because of shortage in supply and high demand, so they sell for extremely large amounts, primarily in Asian countries. This drives an illegal and very active market.
As species get closer and closer to extinction, the resources become more valuable which only causes an increase in poaching. There are various groups that seek to fight poaching, like the African Wildlife Foundation, and take measures to protect a variety of animals as well as using strategies to prevent poaching from happening in the first place.

Future research: Where is poaching the biggest problem, and how does it fit into the economy there?