Travis John Branson pleads guilty to the illegal killing and trafficking of protected bald and golden eagles in Montana, highlighting the pressing issue of wildlife trafficking and the urgency of protecting endangered species.
Travis John Branson, a US man, has confessed to engaging in the illegal killing of bald and golden eagles for profit. Over a span of several years, from 2015 to 2021, Branson, along with an accomplice, hunted around 3,600 of these protected birds in Montana. He admitted to selling their parts and feathers on the black market, even boasting about his crimes in text messages. Facing potential imprisonment of up to five years and fines amounting to approximately $250,000, Branson’s actions underscore the issue of wildlife trafficking and the importance of safeguarding endangered species.
Branson’s guilty plea includes charges of conspiracy, illegal trafficking, and more, portraying a clear disregard for wildlife protection laws. His sentencing is scheduled for the 31st of July, emphasising the serious consequences of illegal poaching and the critical need for stringent enforcement to conserve endangered wildlife. The case serves as a cautionary example of the harm caused by unlawful activities that threaten the existence of these majestic creatures.
