BKSDA Maluku and Papua Barat Regional Centre Release 23 Wild Animals

Ambon — The Maluku Province Natural Resource Conservation Agency (BKSDA) together with the Papua Barat Regional Centre jointly released 23 endemic Papuan wild animals in Mokwam District, Manokwari regency, Papua Barat.

The released animals comprised tree kangaroos, cuscuses, monitor lizards and several species of python. All animals were previously confiscated from failed wildlife smuggling attempts by the Ternate Conservation Zone Section of Maluku BKSDA, explained Forest Ecosystem Controller (PEH) of Maluku BKSDA Jingga Dwi Harpah Prasasti Ali, in Ambon on Thursday.

Before release into their natural habitat, the animals first underwent observation and care for more than one month at Ternate Conservation Station. “This process was conducted to ensure the animals’ health condition and readiness to return to life in the wild,” he said.

The activity also involved the Cenderawasih Bay National Park Regional Centre, local district chiefs, and several conservation partners including JAAN–JSI (Jakarta Animal Aid Network-Indonesian Animal Network), WCS (Wildlife Conservation Society), and COP (Centre for Orangutan Protection).

“Through this activity, the rescued animals are expected to be able to resume their ecological roles in nature and strengthen efforts to preserve Indonesian biodiversity, particularly endemic Papuan fauna,” said Jingga.