Anti-Poaching Programme
( Project BT0852 )
hutan harbours many threatened species listed in the IUCN Red Data Book. These species include the tiger, snow leopard, greater one-horned rhino, Asian elephant, Himalayan black bear, and Himalayan musk deer. Field and news reports indicate that poaching of the country's wildlife, especially for musk deer, is heavy. Government legislation has banned all hunting, and imposes prison terms and severe fines for poaching. However, the lucrative trade in wildlife parts, the remoteness of wildlife habitat, and lack of patrolling staff have contributed to the recent rise in poaching in Bhutan. Based on field reports, investigative studies and a needs assessment, WWF and the Forestry Services Division (FSD) have developed a project to monitor and mitigate poaching and the illegal wildlife trade in Bhutan.
In the initial three-year project, anti-poaching squads, each comprising an experienced forest guard and three local residents, will be established in four critical districts. An "informant system" will be used to collect information. WWF funding will equip the squads with field gear and radios.
FSD will conduct training for the local recruits and informants in forestry rules and regulations, patrolling and reporting procedures, species identification, and vulnerable plant and animal species. Seminars will also be conducted for mid-level officers of law enforcement agencies.
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