Myanmar
Elephant Smuggling
Myanmar is considered the country where more than 100 wild elephants that in recent years have been taken to Thailand to feed the growing tourism industry have been captured. After being domesticated through the brutal technique of “pajaan”, the offspring that survive are illegally passed through the border and sentenced to a life in captivity in fake rescue centers where they are used in anti-natural shows and in tourist rides. More information.
Zoos and Sanctuaries
Due to years of budgetary restrictions and lack of funding, the sanctuaries and zoos in different cities of Myanmar have been described as severely inadequate and unable to meet international standards of animal welfare. Rampant poaching entails a great need for sanctuaries and the inability to accommodate all animals in decent conditions. More information.
Protected Areas
Kachin State is home to a unique variety of wildlife - here you can find bears, clouded leopards, red pandas, elephants and hundreds of bird species. There is also a protected 8,500 square kilometer reserve for tigers, called the Hukaung Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, which is one of the largest in the world and with an estimated population of between 50 and 85 wild tigers.
Sales – Traditional Medicine
Extreme poverty in the country is at the base of the black market of endangered species and poaching. Hunting remains the greatest threat to wildlife and especially to tigers and turtles, which are in high demand in the Asian market. Tourists have to be aware that they will be offered to buy a variety of traditional medicines made with parts of animals in danger of extinction, for example tiger teeth.
Stray Animals
There are large numbers of stray animals in Myanmar, which often live in very bad conditions. The stray cat and dog populations are controlled by unregulated mass slaughter which usually involves very cruel slaughter methods. If you find these animals, you can help them by giving them some food or water, but avoiding close contact with them in order to avoid contagious illnesses. Before traveling you can find the contacts of local animal protection NGOs to inform them in case you find very ill animals or victims of animal abuse, or in case you want to make a donation. More information.
Here is a list of local NGOs that can be contacted in case you want to make a donation, a complaint or find an animal that needs help in Myanmar:
Biodiversity and Nature Conservation Association (BANCA)
If you want to report a crime against wildlife you can contact: Ministry of Forestry, Forestry Department +95-67-405002
