Ariana Gabrielle B. Melgar, Emerson Sy
ABSTRACT Mammals are a diverse group of vertebrates that occur in various habitats and play important ecological roles. This study provides the first quantitative assessment of the online live mammal trade in the country, based on surveys of 20 Philippine-based Facebook wildlife trade groups in 2022 and 2024. A total of 16 species were recorded, dominated by non-native species such as the Four-toed Hedgehog Atelerix albiventris and the Sugar Glider Petaurus breviceps. In addition, two novel species in the Philippine pet trade, namely the African Pygmy Dormouse Graphiurus murinus, and the Indomalayan Bamboo Rat Rhizomys sumatrensis, were documented. Native species comprised 7.35% of all individuals, but included taxa of conservation concern such as the Philippine Long-tailed Macaque Macaca fascicularis philippensis, the Leopard Cat Prionailurus bengalensis, and the Bearcat Arctictis binturong. Despite legal protection under Republic Act No. 9147, macaques and other wild-caught native species continue to be available in trade, indicating ongoing poaching and trafficking. The presence of the tiger Panthera tigris, a Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Appendix I-listed species, highlights the demand for high-value wildlife for use as a status symbol. Ambiguities in Philippine laws regarding the classification of domesticated versus wildlife species complicate regulation and enforcement efforts. This study documents a dynamic live mammal trade that poses ecological, conservation, and regulatory challenges. Strengthened law enforcement, clearer legal definitions, and stronger inter-agency coordination are urgently needed to achieve more effective biodiversity conservation in the Philippines.