By: Renee Barrett, Animal Care Curator
In an innovative approach to combating illegal wildlife trafficking, scientists in Tanzania have turned to an unexpected ally, the African giant pouched rat. Known for their extraordinary sense of smell and intelligence, these large rodents (roughly the size of a small house cat) are being trained to detect contraband hidden in shipments moving through airports and seaports — items such as rhino horn; giraffe hide, hair, and bone; elephant ivory; pangolin scales; and African blackwood. Having previously been used to sniff for landmines and tuberculosis with great success, “HeroRATs,” as they’re called, are proving to be highly effective in identifying illegal wildlife products, offering a promising new tool in the global fight against wildlife crime.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is proud to announce a new partnership with APOPO, the organization behind the HeroRAT training program. As part of this collaboration, Zoo guests will now have the unique opportunity to experience daily HeroRAT demonstrations, bringing visitors face-to-face with these remarkable animals. With these interactive connections, we will be able to share the critical story of wildlife trafficking and the efforts underway to stop it.
This groundbreaking project highlights not only the amazing abilities of rats but also the power of creative conservation solutions. Lightweight, quick, and highly trainable, HeroRATs offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional detection methods like sniffer dogs and X-ray technology. Their work is helping to disrupt trafficking networks and protect some of the world’s most endangered species.
By showcasing the incredible work of HeroRATs, we hope to inspire guests to become Desert Defenders — champions for wildlife who carry the message forward and help create a future where all species can thrive.
