Thieves steal endangered animals from Avilon Zoo

Photo: Avilon Zoo Facebook page
Photo: Avilon Zoo Facebook page

Nine endangered animals were reportedly stolen from the Avilon Zoo in Rodriguez, Rizal on Tuesday morning, the wildlife sanctuary said in a  Facebook page yesterday.

Three mature red-footed tortoises, three mature black palm cockatoos, one mature common snapping turtle, one mature yellow-footed tortoise, and one juvenile brown-tufted capuchin monkey were among the animals that were allegedly stolen.

The zoo sought the help of the public to recover the missing animals through the Facebook post.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources also gave the zoo an extra push on social media by posting about the missing animals as well.

The DENR also reminded that those who stole the animals could face criminal charges. The department told The Philippine Star: “Illegal possession and trade of such animals could make you criminally liable.”

Under the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, the possession of an endangered animal is punishable by law with a maximum imprisonment of two years and a fine of PHP200,000 (US$3,736.97) at most.

All the animals are part of the Avilon Zoo WildCare Conservation Breeding Program.



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