Bangkok: The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation has returned 16 ring-tailed lemurs to Madagascar, marking the first batch of confiscated wildlife to be returned to their natural habitat. This initiative is a testament to Thailand’s commitment to international cooperation in combating illegal wildlife trafficking and its dedication to conserving global biodiversity. Two additional shipments are planned to complete the return of a total of 961 animals.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, the Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, explained that at 02:45 a.m., officials from the department, along with the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), coordinated the transport of the lemurs to Suvarnabhumi Airport. The DSI, leading the operation, ensured that the Wildlife and Plant Conservation Division handled the export under contract.
Previously, Mr. Chalermchai Sri-on, Minister of Natural Resources and Environmen
t, and Pol. Col. Yuthana Praedam, Director-General of the DSI, collaborated with Mr. Max Andonirina Fontaine, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, Republic of Madagascar, in facilitating the return.
The confiscated wildlife includes rare, iconic animals endemic to Madagascar, such as 16 ring-tailed lemurs, 31 brown lemurs, 759 spider tortoises, and 155 radiated tortoises. These species, found only in Madagascar, are listed as endangered and included in Appendix I of CITES, the most stringent international wildlife trade control program.
The initial return was delayed by three days due to the need to enhance packaging standards to meet international wildlife transport requirements, ensuring the animals’ well-being during transit.
The forthcoming shipments will include the transport of 31 brown lemurs and 155 radiated tortoises, followed by 759 spider tortoises.
The Director-General emphasized that all confiscated animals would receive proper care during transportation to ensure their safe r
eturn to Madagascar, where they can be reintegrated into the wild.
This repatriation effort underscores Thailand’s dedication to international collaboration in tackling illegal wildlife trafficking and its ongoing commitment to preserving global biodiversity.