Camera Traps For Wildlife Conservation

There is great joy spotting endangered wildlife on camera traps thriving in the areas around the Sungai Yu Ecological Corridor. There is also great disappointment when this valuable conservation tool is lost. And while we maintain our steadfast resolve and continue our conservation efforts, the loss of a camera trap does remind us that the threats to wildlife are ever-present and we must always be vigilant. 

Late last May, we mounted a camera trap on a tree trunk at a strategic location to observe endangered wildlife. However, on 6th July when we returned to check on the camera, we found it missing, stolen. All that was left were deep cuts on the bark left by a machete that severed the cable that held the camera.

Around the same time other camera traps in the area captured suspicious people in the forest. They were armed. This is not the first time encroachers have been photographed as other suspected poachers were also photographed in January. It is likely that these are the men who discovered our camera trap and removed it to safeguard their presence and location. With little to no real resell value for the cameras, the equipment is likely destroyed and discarded. We have reported both the theft and the trespassers to the relevant authorities. 

As a result, we have had to make changes to the areas we patrol and be extra cautious. Also, we have had to be more careful keeping our camera traps from view to avoid further thefts. To continue our work here at Sungai Yu, we do need funds to replace lost camera traps. Therefore, we would ask you to continue supporting this fund and donate what you can for the equipment we need. A big thank you to those who have contributed, you have made a positive difference.

Links:

• Malaysian Conservation Alliance for Tigers
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