According to the UN, the illegal trade of wild animals for profit ranks as the world’s third largest illicit activity behind drug and weapon smuggling, while Interpol considers animal trafficking second only to drug trafficking.  Animals are taken from their natural habitats and smuggled primarily to Europe, the United States and Asia for pets, or for their skins and furs.   Over 80% of these animals die before they reach their destination, and those who do live generally face lives of deprivation.  The actual travel of these animals is often unbelievably cruel.  Animals have their mouths and beaks taped shut, are restrained in dangerous positions for hours, lying in their own waste.  Birds may have their eyes perforated so they do not sing in reaction to light.  While many international governments have joined CITES (the Convention on International on Trade in Endangered Species), which helps to regulate wildlife trade, these intentions often are inadequately funded and staffed.  Also, the question remains as to what to do with the animals once confiscated from traffickers.  Simply releasing them is too often a death sentence, as the animals are weak and ill, or are babies who have not learned to care for themselves.  Thus the centers dedicated to the rehabilitation of these animals are a fundamental part of the fight to end animal cruelty and trafficking.