The Wildlife Animal Protection Forum of South Africa has expressed serious concerns over the exportation of wild animals to Vantara, a facility in India owned by Mukesh Ambani’s son. Experts question the suitability of the environment for the animals, with calls for an investigation into their welfare and breeding practices.
The Wildlife Animal Protection Forum of South Africa (WAPFSA) has raised alarms regarding the substantial exportation of wild animals, including leopards, cheetahs, tigers, and lions, to the Greens Zoological, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC), also referred to as Vantara. Managed by Anant Ambani, son of prominent industrialist Mukesh Ambani, Vantara was inaugurated on March 3, 2024, coinciding with World Wildlife Day.
Concerns have surfaced regarding Vantara’s suitability for housing diverse species, especially given Gujarat’s hotter climate compared to other regions in India. Experts have indicated that this environment may be detrimental to the health and well-being of the exported animals. WAPFSA formally documented these apprehensions in a letter sent to relevant authorities on March 6, highlighting their worries about the conditions under which these animals are kept.
According to the GZRRC’s 2023/2024 Annual Report, 56 cheetahs have been exported from South Africa. WAPFSA emphasized issues surrounding the exports, questioning the non-detrimental findings related to animal welfare and the origins of the exported cheetahs. The report further categorizes other animals exported, which include aardvarks, caracals, jaguars, leopards, lions, African wild dogs, elands, marmosets, tigers, banded mongooses, and ring-tailed lemurs, alongside various other species.
WAPFSA also expressed concern about the status of lions and tigers exported from breeding facilities. Although conditions in Vantara might have improved, they worry that these animals may become breeding machines exploited by surrounding breeding operations. The organization demands a thorough independent investigation to ascertain the welfare of these animals and their living conditions.
WAPFSA asserted, “Most wildlife experts agree that placing animals in any captive environment is itself a form of mistreatment.” They reasoned that life in captivity, regardless of facility quality, cannot replicate the benefits of living in their natural habitats, thereby diminishing the animals’ quality of life.
In summary, WAPFSA has raised vital points regarding the export of wild animals to Vantara, questioning the appropriateness of the facility’s environment for these species. Concerns regarding animal welfare, the potential for exploitation in breeding operations, and the necessity for an independent investigation underscore the importance of safeguarding wildlife interests. The organization highlights the broader implications of captivity, calling for greater scrutiny and protective measures for these animals.
Original Source: www.financialexpress.com
