A refuge for rare creatures

A refuge for rare creatures

The continung illegal trade in protected species and the
proliferation of people keeping endangered animals as status
symbol "pets" are decimating wild populations of many species.

The presence of temporary wildlife shelters, like one in
Sentolo district in Kulonprogo regency, some 15 kilometers to the
west of Yogyakarta, offers fresh hope for their survival.

Located on 14 hectares, the shelter houses almost 900
protected animals -- species of birds, crocodiles, bears,
leopards and primates -- confiscated by the authorities or
voluntarily surrendered by the public.

With facilities including a laboratory, veterinary clinic,
quarantine and isolation rooms, all animals taken to the shelter
are examined, treated for any diseases and, once declared
healthy, rehabilitated for their return to the wild.

That is the noble goal of the center, but with the rampant
destruction of their forests, will there be a place to go back
to?

-- Text and photos by Tarko Sudiarno