Giant rats help fight wildlife smuggling in African ports

A unique initiative in African ports could soon see giant African possums as an unconventional solution to combat wildlife smuggling. These rats wear red vests and are trained to detect illegal goods such as elephant ivory and pangolin scales by smell. This new project, led by behavioral ecologist Dr Isabelle Szott and the non-profit organization APOPO, aims to equip ports with a reliable and flexible resource to intercept illegal wildlife products and reduce the impact of poaching on biodiversity .

How the training works

The training process for these rodents is rigorous and innovative. The rats undergo odor detection training in a specially designed laboratory in Morogoro, Tanzania, where they learn to distinguish specific animal-related odors. In a large box with several chambers containing several scent samples, the rats are trained to recognize objects such as rhino horn and pangolin scales. When they detect one of these odors, they signal by holding their nose above it, allowing researchers to reward them with treats. According to Dr. Szott, eight of the 11 rats successfully completed the training, demonstrating their ability to identify target odors amid distractions such as cardboard or synthetic objects, which smugglers often use to disguise illegal goods.

Real world implementation potential

Next After their laboratory training, these rodents are now tested in mock warehouses, with some even going to work in real African ports. Their keen sense of smell, low maintenance costs and agility make them a viable option in locations where customs resources are limited or where traditional methods such as trained dogs are expensive. Dr. Szott believes these animals could provide a new approach to the fight against the illegal wildlife trade, while being more cost-effective for areas suffering from limited resources.

A new life after service

For the rats who served in various APOPO projects, there is also a “retirement” option. After years of service, they can relax in APOPO’s colony with a diet of fruits, vegetables and fish, marking a humane end to their contribution. This unique program not only demonstrates a new strategy in conservation efforts, but also provides these remarkable creatures with well-deserved care after their retirement, while strengthening wildlife protection across African borders.