NexNews — Thailand is sending almost 1,000 highly endangered tortoises and lemurs back to Madagascar in a historic anti-trafficking effort. This landmark repatriation represents the largest of its kind between the two countries, with the first batch of animals set to depart on Saturday.
In May, Thai police seized 1,117 animals during an anti-trafficking operation in Chumphon province. Among the rescued species were spider tortoises, radiated tortoises, ring-tailed lemurs, and brown lemurs—each listed as critically endangered under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). These species are often targeted for the exotic pet trade in Asia, where their survival in captivity is threatened due to the difficulty of replicating their natural habitats.
During their time in captivity, several of the animals had died from poor health resulting from lack of proper nutrition and water. Some also struggled to adapt to their new surroundings. Nevertheless, Thailand’s efforts to repatriate the surviving animals highlight the country’s commitment to combating wildlife trafficking and supporting the welfare of seized animals.
The repatriation process involves three flights, organized by Qatar Airways, and is expected to transport 961 live animals back to Madagascar. Thai officials, including Dr. Chalermchai Sri-on, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, emphasized that the repatriation serves as a powerful demonstration of Thailand’s dedication to wildlife protection.
The UK-based conservation group, Traffic, praised the repatriation as an example of successful international collaboration to address the growing wildlife trafficking crisis. Illegal wildlife trade, along with deforestation, is one of the biggest threats to Madagascar’s biodiversity. Thailand is the largest importer of wildlife from Madagascar in Southeast Asia, and the repatriation is seen as a critical step in addressing this issue.
The operation sends a strong message about the global fight against wildlife trafficking and aims to deter those who consider the illegal trade in endangered species as acceptable.
