MOROGORO, Tanzania – Rats have long been misunderstood, often seen as pests rather than pals.
However, the African giant pouched rat, the largest in the world, possesses special qualities that have caught the attention of a group of scientists in Tanzania.
These experts believe rats can be crime-fighting allies against wildlife trafficking.
This innovative approach could reshape conservation efforts and shed new light on the surprising abilities of these extraordinary animals.
Three qualities of these great little animals stand out for this job: their sense of smell, small size, and intelligence.
Here’s how a team of scientists and trainers has been working with the first cohort of giant anti-smuggling rats to help find illegal wildlife products passing through ports and airports in East Africa.
This article by Lucia Torres was first published by Mongabay.com on 12 February 2025. Lead Image: Gigant rat. Image ©Franz Thiel.
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