Animals Asia’s partners FLIGHT has been working tirelessly in the first quarter of 2023 to support law enforcement authorities in carrying out a series of seizures across various locations in Indonesia. The organization's investigations, provision of information, and assistance in conducting confiscations in the field have resulted in a total of 21 seizures and the rescue of 5,267 live individuals who had been poached from the wild.
Out of the total number of live individuals rescued the vast majority were songbirds. The majority of songbirds were rescued in Sumatra, while many other bird species, such as parrots, birds of paradise, red knobbed hornbills, and cockatoos, were rescued in eastern Indonesia, particularly in Papua, Maluku, and Sulawesi.
Apart from birds, several other animals were also rescued, including Papuan tree kangaroos, proboscis monkeys, gibbons, leopard cats, and others. Additionally, one seizure involved pangolin scales.
The confiscated songbirds that were confirmed to be healthy were released, while those not ready to be released are being cared for at the songbird rehabilitation centre managed by FLIGHT: Protecting Birds.
Animals Asia’s Animal Welfare Director Dave Neale said:
“The support from around the world that Animals Asia has received over the years has undoubtedly helped to protect and save tens of thousands of vulnerable wild lives in Indonesia. We are committed to working with law enforcement authorities to combat the illegal wildlife trade and ensure the safety and well-being of these animals. Our thanks go out to our dedicated partners in FLIGHT for all of the work they do to combat this devastating trade.”
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