The Department of Wildlife and National Parks Peninsular Malaysia (Perhilitan) has received criticism for their use of dogs as live bait to capture a wild black panther in Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan last month. However, Perhilitan has defended their actions, stating that this was a necessary measure after attempts to lure the panther with goats failed.
In a report by Sinar Harian, it was revealed that three dogs were used as live bait for a week to successfully trap the black panther. Perhilitan director general Abdul Qadir Abu Hashim has stated that using live animals is a standard procedure and that the dogs were not harmed during the capture. He also highlighted that the dogs were released immediately after the panther was caught.
Regarding the use of dogs, Hashim explained, “In this particular case, there was an indication that the panther had previously attacked the dogs, so we used them for barking and scenting.”
Perhilitan’s actions have sparked controversy and raised concerns from animal rights groups, who argue that there should be alternative methods for capturing wild animals. However, Perhilitan maintains that they followed their operating procedures and ensured the safety of the animals involved.
In response to public outcry, Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Aminuddin Harun shared a post on Facebook detailing the chronology of events and how the black panther was safely captured by Perhilitan.
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FAQ:
Q: Why did Perhilitan use dogs as live bait?
A: Perhilitan resorted to using dogs as live bait after attempts to lure the black panther with goats failed. The dogs were chosen because there was evidence that the panther had previously attacked them.
Q: Were the dogs physically harmed during the capture?
A: No, Perhilitan ensured that the dogs were not physically harmed during the capture. They were released immediately after the panther was caught.
Q: What is the justification for using live animals in such methods?
A: Perhilitan claims that using live animals is a standard procedure in capturing wild animals. However, this practice has sparked controversy and raised concerns from animal rights groups, who argue that alternative methods should be employed.
Q: Did Perhilitan follow proper procedures for capturing the black panther?
A: According to Perhilitan, they followed their operating procedures in capturing the black panther. However, the use of dogs as live bait has been a point of contention.
Q: How was the black panther captured?
A: The black panther was successfully captured using a trap, which consisted of a cage with a separate compartment to hold the dogs. After the panther was caught, the dogs were released.
