The WAPFSA has raised alarm over the export of wild animals to Vantara, questioning its climate suitability for species housed there. The organization has called for an investigation into the wellbeing of these animals, citing potential exploitation in breeding facilities. Ethical concerns surrounding captivity and animal welfare have been emphasized by wildlife experts.
The Wildlife Animal Protection Forum of South Africa (WAPFSA) has raised serious concerns regarding the export of various big cats and other wild animals from South Africa to the Greens Zoological, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC), also known as Vantara. This facility, owned by Anant Ambani, son of industrialist Mukesh Ambani, was inaugurated on March 3, 2024, coinciding with World Wildlife Day.
Experts have questioned the appropriateness of Vantara’s location in Gujarat as it experiences high temperatures unsuitable for many species housed there. WAPFSA formally expressed these concerns in a letter to several authorities on March 6, urging for a review of the conditions at Vantara and the implications for the animals.
According to the GZRRC 2023/2024 Annual Report, South Africa has exported 56 cheetahs to Vantara, raising further questions about the export sources. Additional species listed in the report include aardvark, caracal, jaguar, leopard, lion, and tiger, totaling significant numbers that have caused alarm within the conservation community.
WAPFSA highlighted potential ethical issues, especially regarding lions and tigers sourced from South African breeding facilities. Despite improvements in their conditions at Vantara, the organization cautioned against their future exploitation as breeding machines for commercial purposes. They are advocating for an independent examination of Vantara’s practices to safeguard animal welfare.
Furthermore, WAPFSA stated, “Most wildlife experts agree that placing animals in any captive environment is itself a form of mistreatment. A life in captivity in a zoo, no matter how advanced the facilities may be, can never equal a life lived in natural surroundings. Captivity enforces conditions upon wild animals in which they are not adapted to thrive.”
The Wildlife Animal Protection Forum of South Africa has articulated significant concerns regarding the export of wild animals to the Vantara facility, particularly questioning the suitability of its climate for these species. Amidst growing ethical concerns about the potential for exploitation within breeding programs, WAPFSA has called for independent research to ensure the welfare of exported animals and highlight the broader implications of such practices.
Original Source: www.financialexpress.com
