BKSDA Receives 59 Wildlifes From Cirebon Residents To Be Released To Natural Habitat

An abalah bird that was successfully evacuated from the perpetrators of illegal animal trafficking in Cirebon, West Java. (ANTARA/Fathnur Rohman)

JABAR - The Cirebon Resort Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has evacuated 59 wild animals of various types in the last eight months or since January 2024.

The Forestry Police of the Cirebon Resort BKSDA, Dede Hermawan, said that this evacuation was the result of community participation in handing over wild animals to the authorities to be released into their natural habitat.

"This evacuation is not only from the results of our findings, but is also carried out through voluntary submission from the public who are increasingly aware of the importance of preserving wildlife," he said in Cirebon, Friday, August 30, which was confiscated by Antara.

Dede explained that most of the evacuated animals came from illegal trade. After receiving it, the animal then underwent quarantine for proper medical treatment.

In addition, his party in collaboration with the Cirebon Police has confiscated six protected animals from perpetrators who carry out illegal animal trafficking activities in Cirebon Regency.

"Regarding wild animals from this trade, the types are eagles, eagles and mountain crossings. Next, they will be quarantined for treatment from medical personnel," he said.

As part of the rehabilitation effort, the Cirebon BKSDA also collaborates with conservation centers. Animals that are included in bird species, for example, are sent to a Javan eagle conservation center in Garut Regency.

Dede said this quarantine effort was very necessary, so that the animal's condition recovered and could be immediately released into the wild.

"The output we want to achieve is that these wildlife must be released again, because their habitat is natural as a peak predator," he said.

The Cirebon BKSDA, continued Dede, prioritizes persuasive steps in handling cases related to wildlife.

He added that educational and socialization steps to the community are the main focus, so that public awareness not to trade wildlife continues to increase.

"We are trying to make people aware. Don't take advantage of trading wildlife," he said.