Thailand to Repatriate Over 900 Endangered Lemurs and Tortoises to Madagascar

[Georgealbert]

 

 

The Thai government, through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, has announced plans to repatriate 963 rare and endangered animals to Madagascar. The official ceremony for the handover will take place on November 27, with the actual transport set to be carried out in stages via Qatar Airways on November 28, November 30, and December 2, 2024.

 

The animals, including lemurs and tortoises, were seized earlier this year in a high-profile case led by Thailand’s Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division. On May 1, authorities intercepted a smuggling operation in Chumphon Province, rescuing a total of 1,117 animals and arresting six suspects.

 

Deputy Government Spokesman Anukool Pruksanusak revealed that the repatriation decision was made in collaboration with the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Of the 963 animals being returned, the list includes:

 

• 16 ring-tailed lemurs

• 32 brown lemurs

• 760 spider tortoises

• 155 radiated tortoises

 

These species, all native to Madagascar, are listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which identifies species at the highest risk of extinction.

 

The Madagascan government has shown great concern over this case, assigning its Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development to oversee the process. The minister recently inspected the animals at Bang Phra Waterbird Breeding Center in Chonburi Province and engaged in discussions with Thai authorities to facilitate the smooth return of the animals to their native habitat.

 

“This initiative highlights Thailand’s commitment to wildlife conservation and its cooperation with international partners in combating illegal wildlife trade. By returning these animals to their natural environment, we aim to contribute to the preservation of global biodiversity,” stated Anukool.

 

The project is expected to strengthen ties between Thailand and Madagascar while serving as a reminder of the global responsibility to protect endangered species and their habitats.

 

Picture of Ministry spokesperson, with some of the animals.

-- 2024-11-24