Irian home to rare animals

Irian home to rare animals

SORONG, Irian Jaya: Irian Jaya is home to some 273 rare and
protected animals, the Antara news agency said quoting a survey
by the World Wildlife Fund for Nature.

They comprise 207 birds species, 41 mammals, 17 reptiles and
eight insects, including giant butterflies, according to the
survey available at the Sorong's Natural Resources Conservation
Office.

Some of the birds species are only found in Irian Jaya but
their existences are being endangered with the operation of
forestry concession holders encroaching on their natural
habitats.

There are also indications of racketeering in selling and
smuggling the birds and butterflies. (emb)