The truth behind viral social media videos of exotic animals | BBC News

This BBC News video examines the large number of social media clips showing exotic animals kept as pets. According to conservationists quoted in the report, such content can glamorise these animals and spread misinformation about their behaviour. BBC Tech Now reporter Franchesca Hashemi looks at the consequences of these viral videos and asks whether they contribute to the illegal wildlife trade.

• Thousands of social media videos show exotic animals kept as pets
• Conservationists worry creators glamorise these animals and spread misinformation
• Examines whether viral content fuels the illegal wildlife trade
• Reported by Franchesca Hashemi for BBC Tech Now

There are thousands of videos on social media of exotic animals being kept as pets. But, behind the clips lies a troubling reality. That's according to conservationists, who worry that content creators are glamourising the animals as pets, spreading misinformation about the behaviour they show. BBC Tech Now's Franchesca Hashemi investigates the consequences of viral social media videos of exotic animals, and whether they are fuelling the illegal wildlife trade. Subscribe to our channel here: https://bbc.in/bbcnews For the latest news download the BBC News app or visit BBC.com/news #BBCNews