Concerns Raised Over Export of Wild Animals to Vantara by WAPFSA
WAPFSA has expressed concerns about the export of wild animals, particularly leopards, cheetahs, tigers, and lions, to Vantara, a facility owned by Anant Ambani. Experts question the environmental suitability of Gujarat for these species. The organization has called for a thorough investigation into the welfare implications for the wild animals in captivity.
The Wildlife Animal Protection Forum of South Africa (WAPFSA) has raised serious concerns regarding the exportation of numerous wild animals, including leopards, cheetahs, tigers, and lions, to the Greens Zoological, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC), known as Vantara. This facility, owned by Anant Ambani, was inaugurated on March 3, 2024, coinciding with World Wildlife Day, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Experts have criticized the appropriateness of Vantara’s location in Gujarat, which has higher temperatures that may not be suitable for many of the species housed there. WAPFSA formally communicated these concerns in a letter on March 6, directed at various authorities such as the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the South African CITES Management Authority, and the CITES Secretariat.
The GZRRC 2023/2024 Annual Report indicates that 56 cheetahs were exported from South Africa to Vantara. WAPFSA’s letter questions the lack of non-detrimental findings regarding the cheetah exports and requests clarification on their origins in South Africa. The report also details other exported species, including aardvarks, caracals, leopards, lions, tigers, and several others.
Concerns were expressed regarding the exportation of lions and tigers from breeding facilities in South Africa. WAPFSA suggested that while the conditions at Vantara may have improved for these animals, they could be exploited for breeding purposes in facilities outside the main zoo.
WAPFSA has called for an independent scientific investigation to ensure animal welfare, stating, “Most wildlife experts agree that placing animals in any captive environment is itself a form of mistreatment.” They emphasized that a life in captivity, even in advanced facilities, does not equate to a life in the wild, arguing that such conditions inhibit the animals’ natural behavior and wellbeing.
In summary, the Wildlife Animal Protection Forum of South Africa has raised vital concerns about the exportation of wild animals to Vantara, particularly regarding the suitability of the facility’s environment for these species. The organization advocates for an independent investigation to assess the welfare of the animals and emphasizes the ethical implications of keeping wildlife in captivity, regardless of facility improvements. The dialogue surrounding this issue highlights the complex relationship between animal welfare and conservation efforts.
Original Source: www.financialexpress.com
