The West Sumatra Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) is taking proactive measures to protect wildlife through regular patrols. These patrols are primarily carried out by the owners of protected animals and aim to promote animal welfare and conservation. In addition to enforcing regulations on animal ownership, the patrols also serve as an opportunity for educating the public about the importance of protecting wild animals.
According to Eka Damayanti, the daily executive head of West Sumatra BKSDA, the agency works in collaboration with ten resorts across the district and city to monitor and control the ownership of wild animals. As part of their patrol activities on Monday-Tuesday (2-3/10/2023), the BKSDA team successfully received voluntary handovers of several protected animals from Limapuluh Kota Regency. These animals included three gibbons, one deer, and one pangolin. The Wildlife Rescue Unit (WRU) team now has these animals secured for eventual release back into their natural habitats.
The continued conservation of wildlife is crucial to safeguard these species from the threat of extinction. The West Sumatra BKSDA is committed to intensifying regular patrols to ensure the proper ownership and protection of these animals. They encourage the public to take an active role in the conservation efforts by promptly reporting any instances of individuals possessing protected animals.
In Indonesia, the possession of protected plant and animal species is governed by detailed regulations, such as Environment and Forestry Regulation No. P.106 of 2018. Violations of these regulations can lead to criminal sanctions, as stipulated in Law No. 5 of 1990. It is important to be aware that several deer species, including the twelve deer (Axle Kuhli), Timor deer (timorensis deer), and sambar deer (a colorful deer), are protected in Indonesia. Additionally, Gibbon Gibbons (Symphalangus syndactylus) and pangolins (Sweet Javanese) are also protected animals in the country.
FAQ Section:
Q: What is the purpose of the regular wildlife ownership surveillance patrols?
A: The main goal of these patrols is to ensure the protection and welfare of wild animals and promote their conservation.
Q: Who conducts the wildlife ownership surveillance patrols?
A: The patrols are primarily carried out by the owners of protected animals, in collaboration with the West Sumatra Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA).
Q: How does the BKSDA educate the public during these patrols?
A: The BKSDA takes the opportunity to directly educate the public about the importance of protecting wild animals and the role they can play in conservation efforts.
Q: What happens to the animals voluntarily handed over to the BKSDA?
A: The Wildlife Rescue Unit (WRU) team secures the animals for release back into their natural habitats.
Q: Are there any legal consequences for possessing protected animals?
A: Yes, the possession of protected plant and animal species can lead to criminal sanctions, as regulated by Indonesian laws.
