DD Animal News – Humane World for Animals just released the results of an undercover investigation—and what they uncovered has conservationists howling mad.
Between January and March 2025, investigators sniffed out more than 383 ivory items for sale across the state—yes, you read that right. These items, made from elephants, hippos, whales, and other endangered wildlife, were found in online auctions and physical shops in 27 different counties. The total value? A staggering $38,000.
The goods ranged from small trinkets to full-blown trophies. We’re talking ivory earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. There were figurines, letter openers, game pieces, cigarette holders—even the head, neck, and shoulders of a taxidermy giraffe selling for $6,000. That’s not just illegal—it’s heart-wrenching.
Selling Without a License?
Whitney Teamus, senior director of investigations at Humane World for Animals, said this was one of the most concerning investigations they’ve conducted in years.
“The number of ivory items identified exceeds what we’ve seen in our previous investigations over the last several years, including in Connecticut and Florida,” she said. “The labeling of ivory was also disturbingly unreliable with some vendors uncertain of the material they were selling while others appear to be intentionally mislabeling items as bone. The main consistency was that no federal documentation or state permit was offered or provided for any ivory when asked.”
That’s not just shady—it’s dangerous for wildlife.
Laws Need More Teeth
Federal law already restricts the sale of products made from endangered species like elephants and rhinos, but there are loopholes. Although the state bans the sale of items made from endangered animals without a permit, there are still loopholes that are allowing the trade to continue.
Kristen Tullo, Pennsylvania’s state director for the organization, wants that to change.
Our investigation shows the depth and breadth of ivory and other animal parts for sale across our state. Pennsylvanians should not be contributing to the cruel and senseless global trade of animal parts. Lawmakers are doing the right thing by prioritizing this critical issue,” she said.
To help patch these legal holes, State Representative Leanne Krueger (D-161) introduced HB 994. The bill would ban the in-state sale of a broader range of animal parts—like giraffe and hippo ivory—that currently fly under the legal radar. The good news? The bill passed the House Judiciary Committee 25 to 1 June 2nd. But it still has a long way to go.
Poaching Is No Small Problem
Every day, elephants are being slaughtered for their tusks. The items being created from the tusks are being sold in various markets—this week’s findings prove the demand is alive and well right here in the U.S.
“My bill outlines clear consequences for anyone who participates in the trade of protected wildlife parts, whether that person is the seller or buyer,” said Representative Krueger.
Let’s be honest: no bracelet is worth the life of a majestic elephant.
Time to Step Up
If you think wildlife belongs in the wild—not in curio cabinets—it’s time to raise your voice. Support local and federal laws that crack down on trafficking. Say no to ivory, no matter how small or “vintage.”
Because once these animals are gone, no amount of regret will bring them back.
