Help Rescue Primates from Illegal Trafficking

This yellow-cheeked gibbon baby was rescued by the Wildlfie Rapid Rescue Team (WRRT) on March 23, 2015 and brought to his new home at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center. Too young to be left alone, he is provided with round-the-clock care at the animal nursery. This is only the third yellow-cheeked gibbon to be rescued by the team, and the species is listed as Endangered by the IUCN. Found in the eastern region of Cambodia, yellow-cheeked gibbons are similar in habits and behavior to pileated gibbons, however their dueting songs differ. They are also more social animals and live in groups of 3-5 individuals. Yellow-cheeked gibbons sleep sitting up, and the family sleeps together in preferred sleeping trees. The tight-knit family unit participates in social grooming, which is thought to reinforce the bonds between family members.

Unfortunately, habitat loss and the illegal wildlife trade are decimating primate populations throughout Asia. Like this yellow-cheeked gibbon, infants are often torn away from their mothers and sold into the exotic pet trade until owners realize they cannot control these wild animals. The WRRT’s presence in Cambodia to rescue primates and halt the illegal trade is critical. Every animal saved is significant to the survival and continuation of the species.

Since 2001, the Wildlife Rapid Rescue Team (WRRT), a law enforcement squad devoted solely to combating the illegal wildlife trade, has rescued over 2,500 gibbons, langurs, macaques and lorises.

However, the demand remains high and continued efforts are needed to ensure the long-term survival of primates in the region. $3,000 will help them research trade networks, conduct undercover investigations, and rescue and transport trafficked animals.

Wildlife Alliance is committed to creating an environment where animals and humans can coexist, and we would like to thank you for your continued support. We are less than half way to our goal, and couldn't have done it without you! You can continue help the WRRT make vital rescues by making a gift to help us reach our goal, or by sharing this project with your friends and social network!