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)