Critically endangered sawfish are still killed for teeth carved into cockfighting spurs; one rostrum can produce products worth roughly $8,000

Sawfish are now targeted for their unique rostrums, which are carved into spurs for illegal cockfighting. This hidden trade, particularly prevalent in Peru, devastates critically endangered sawfish populations. A single sawfish rostrum can fetch thousands of dollars, fueling this illicit and profitable market. Enforcement proves difficult due to the informal and concealed nature of these transactions.

Critically endangered sawfish are still killed for teeth carved into cockfighting spurs; one rostrum can produce products worth roughly $8,000
Sawfish are now targeted for their unique rostrums, which are carved into spurs for illegal cockfighting. This hidden trade, particularly prevalent in Peru, devastates critically endangered sawfish populations. A single sawfish rostrum can fetch thousands of dollars, fueling this illicit and profitable market. Enforcement proves difficult due to the informal and concealed nature of these transactions.