Help Stop Illegal Wildlife Trafficking

The Wildlife Rapid Rescue Team (WRRT) recently responded to several calls via Wildlife Alliance’s 24 hour rescue hotline number reporting wildlife being kept as pets. The nationwide hotline number is an important tool for the WRRT as it allows the general public to provide information on wildlife crimes. Without these tips, it would be impossible for the team to conduct nearly as many raids and rescue operations. These particular calls resulted in the rescue of several animals that were kept in appalling conditions. In Phnom Penh, a python and young macaque were rescued, both suffering from injuries and malnutrition. The next day, the WRRT received information concerning two different residents of Prek Khmeng village that were illegally keeping a leopard cat kitten and a rare lesser adjutant. The team successfully confiscated both animals, and educated the owners about the consequences of illegally keeping wildlife. All the animals were taken to Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center (PTWRC), where they are being rehabilitated.

The Wildlife Rapid Rescue Team often comes in contact with residents that keep wildlife as pets. Due to lack of education and knowledge of laws governing wildlife, these animals are often kept in horrendous conditions, subjected to cramped spaces and poor diets. We also receive many donations of animals that have been kept as pets until the owners realize they cannot control a wild animal. Their misguided attempts to change the animal’s natural behavior often leads to mistreatment or confinement. However, due in part to Wildlife Alliance’s Anti-Trafficking Campaign, using billboards and Public Service Announcements, there has been a marked increase in the number of calls reporting on illegal wildlife activity by the general public. This shows that awareness about the wildlife trade is growing, and continued efforts must be made to educate the public on the issue. Help the WRRT prevent another wild animal from ending up a pet by making a donation today!