PhD defence Janine Brigitta Heim

Keywords: Wildlife Trade, Value Construction, Securitisation, Niche Economy

"Mapping The Bitis Trade: Disentangling Value Constructions, Security Perceptions, and Practices in the Making of a Wildlife Economy"

This thesis explores the international trade in Bitis vipers – a group of African snakes that range from the massive, thick-bodied Gaboon viper to tiny desert species no longer than a hand. Over four years, the research followed how these snakes move from southern Africa to private collections in Europe, combining in-person fieldwork with extensive online observation across social media, forums, and reptile expos. 

The study shows that while many snakes are successfully bred in captivity, wild collection still occurs, particularly in regions where regulations are uneven or weakly enforced. Differences in national laws and gaps in oversight allow animals to move across borders with limited traceability. These patterns are also shaped by a longer colonial legacy, where European actors continue to dominate parts of the trade while African actors often face stricter control or exclusion. 

Looking ahead, the thesis highlights the need for stronger international cooperation and practical tools such as genetic testing to verify whether animals are captive-bred or taken from the wild. It argues that more effective regulation must address both these structural imbalances and the global, networked nature of the trade.

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