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Silvery Pigeon Columba argentina

Critically Endangered

Location: Indonesia (Riau Archipelago, Bangka-Belitung Islands, Mentawai Islands, and Sumatra) and Malaysia (offshore islands of Borneo)

The silvery pigeon (Columba argentina) is one of Southeast Asia’s most enigmatic birds. Once widespread throughout Indonesia and Malaysia, they have been marginalised to far-flung islands where they are sadly disappearing and are now Critically Endangered. These shy birds are known for their elegant, silvery-grey plumage, vivid red eyes, and black-tipped wings.
With an estimated population of fewer than 50 mature individuals, their survival is hanging in the balance and they are almost gone permanently. Deforestation, particularly for palm oil plantations, has decimated their mangrove and coastal forest habitats. Additionally, illegal poaching and invasive species have driven their numbers to critical lows. Protecting their fragile existence requires immediate conservation efforts. Fight for their survival every time you shop by boycotting palm oil! #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife

https://youtu.be/CHuVuiKRXAs

Once well-known and widespread, only a handful of elegant Silvery #Pigeons 🕊️🩶remain on far-flung islands of #Indonesia 🇮🇩 and #Malaysia 🇲🇾. #Palmoil and illegal #wildlife trade are big threats. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife 🌴🔥💀🙊⛔️ @palmoildetect https://palmoildetectives.com/2021/01/25/silvery-pigeon-columba-argentina/

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Enigmatic and beautiful Silvery #Pigeons 🕊️🌱🩶 have a soothing call and vivid red eyes 😻👀. Living in #Indonesia 🇮🇩 and #Malaysia 🇲🇾 they’re critically #endangered from #palmoil and may disappear #BoycottPalmOil 🌴🪔🚫 #Boycott4Wildlife @palmoildetect https://palmoildetectives.com/2021/01/25/silvery-pigeon-columba-argentina/

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Further mining is planned on Simeulue, as are large-scale oil palm plantations (Eaton 2011), which could result in extensive habitat loss, although the island currently remains heavily forested (Eaton and Rossouw 2011).
IUCN Red List

Appearance and Behaviour

Silvery pigeons are medium-sized birds, measuring about 38 cm in length. Their feathers are a pale, lustrous silvery-grey with striking black-tipped wings. They have vivid red legs and a slender black tail. Their pale yellow eyes, surrounded by a light grey eye ring, add to their striking appearance.

Typically shy and reclusive, these pigeons are rarely seen, even in their preferred habitats of mangroves and coastal forests. They are thought to feed on fruits, seeds, and possibly invertebrates, though direct observations of their behaviour remain scarce. Their secretive nature and low population make them one of the least studied pigeon species in the world.

Threats

IUCN Status: Critically Endangered

Palm Oil Deforestation: The conversion of mangrove and coastal forest habitats into palm oil plantations has been catastrophic for silvery pigeons. Many of their nesting and feeding grounds in Sumatra and the Riau Archipelago have been cleared for palm oil monoculture.
Urbanisation and logging: This further exacerbates habitat loss, particularly in the Bangka-Belitung Islands and offshore Borneo.
Illegal Wildlife Trade: The silvery pigeon has been documented in the illegal pet trade. Researchers have uncovered online markets selling these rare birds, which significantly hampers conservation efforts.
Invasive Species: Introduced predators such as rats and snakes prey on silvery pigeon eggs and chicks, further threatening their already fragile population.
Climate Change: Rising sea levels and increasingly severe storms pose significant risks to the small, low-lying islands these pigeons inhabit, particularly the Riau Archipelago and Bangka-Belitung Islands.
Geographic Range: Silvery pigeons were once more widespread across the coastal regions of Indonesia and Malaysia. Today, they are restricted to a few isolated locations: Indonesia: Riau Archipelago, Bangka-Belitung Islands, Mentawai Islands, and parts of Sumatra. Malaysia: Offshore islands of Borneo

The species was rediscovered in 2008 on the remote Riau Archipelago after being presumed extinct. Recent sightings have been recorded in the Bangka-Belitung Islands and offshore Borneo, though these populations remain precariously small.

Diet

Silvery pigeons are frugivores, primarily feeding on fruits and seeds found in mangroves and coastal forests. They play an essential ecological role as seed dispersers, contributing to forest regeneration.

However, habitat destruction from palm oil plantations has significantly reduced their food sources. The loss of mangroves and other coastal vegetation also limits the availability of nesting and foraging sites.

Reproduction and Mating

The silvery pigeon’s reproductive habits remain poorly understood. Recent studies describe their chicks as covered in pale down, with nests typically located in dense mangroves or remote coastal forests.

Clutch size is believed to be small, with females likely laying only one or two eggs per breeding season. The vulnerability of these nesting sites to predation and human activity makes successful reproduction increasingly rare.

Take Action!

The silvery pigeon’s survival depends on protecting their mangrove and coastal forest habitats. Boycott palm oil and support conservation organisations working to preserve these ecosystems. Raise awareness about the impact of habitat destruction and the illegal wildlife trade on this critically endangered species. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife

Further Information

BirdLife International. 2019. Columba argentina. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2019: e.T22690195A155300126. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2019-3.RLTS.T22690195A155300126.en. Downloaded on 25 January 2021.

Birds of the World. (2022). Silvery Pigeon. Birds of the World.

Chng, S. C. L., & Eaton, J. A. (2022). Novel ecological information for Silvery Pigeon (Columba argentina): First description of the chick. Avian Research, 13(1), 1-9.

Mongabay. (2022). Online trade in rare Silvery Pigeon is cause for concern, researchers say. Mongabay.

Wikipedia. (2022). Silvery Pigeon. Wikipedia.

Silvery Pigeon Columba argentina

How can I help the #Boycott4Wildlife?

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2. Contribute stories: Academics, conservationists, scientists, indigenous rights advocates and animal rights advocates working to expose the corruption of the palm oil industry or to save animals can contribute stories to the website.

Wildlife Artist Juanchi Pérez

Health Physician Dr Evan Allen

3. Supermarket sleuthing: Next time you’re in the supermarket, take photos of products containing palm oil. Share these to social media along with the hashtags to call out the greenwashing and ecocide of the brands who use palm oil. You can also take photos of palm oil free products and congratulate brands when they go palm oil free.

https://twitter.com/CuriousApe4/status/1526136783557529600?s=20

https://twitter.com/PhillDixon1/status/1749010345555788144?s=20

https://twitter.com/mugabe139/status/1678027567977078784?s=20

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#Bird #Boycott4wildlife #BoycottPalmOil #CriticallyEndangeredSpecies #endangered #Indonesia #Malaysia #palmoil #pigeons #SilveryPigeonColumbaArgentina #SouthEastAsia #Sumatra #wildlife

Pig-tailed Snub-nosed Langur Simias concolor

Pig-tailed Snub-nosed Langur Simias concolor

IUCN Red List Status: Critically Endangered

Location: This rare primate is endemic to the Mentawai Islands off the west coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. They are found on Siberut, Sipora, and North and South Pagai, where they inhabit lowland and hill forests in these isolated and fragile ecosystems.

The Pig-tailed Snub-nosed Langur, also known as the Pig-tailed Langur, is one of the most distinctive and endangered monkeys in the world. These ultra rare and critically endangered small primates are known for their short, upturned noses and unique pig-like tails. Pig-tailed Snub-nosed Langurs are critically endangered due to palm oil and timber deforestation, hunting, and habitat fragmentation in their tiny island homes of Siberut, Sipora, and North and South Pagai, Indonesia. Immediate conservation action is necessary to protect the remaining population and their delicate ecosystem from disappearing forever. Fight for them every time you shop and #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife

https://youtu.be/JOfOyb0Okys

Forgotten #primate 🙊🐒 Pig-tailed Snub-nosed #Langur is now critically endangered on tiny islands near #Sumatra #Indonesia 🇮🇩 from #palmoil #deforestation and hunting pressures. Help them survive #BoycottPalmOil 🌴☠️⛔️ #Boycott4Wildlife @palmoildetect https://palmoildetectives.com/2021/01/31/pig-tailed-snub-nosed-langur-simias-concolor/

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Pig-tailed Snub-nosed #langurs have a cute upturned nose and a pig-like tail. They’re critically #endangered by #palmoil #deforestation and hunting in #Indonesia 🇮🇩🐒 Resist their #extinction! #BoycottPalmOil 🌴☠️⛔️ #Boycott4Wildlife @palmoildetect https://palmoildetectives.com/2021/01/31/pig-tailed-snub-nosed-langur-simias-concolor/

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Appearance and Behaviour

The Pig-tailed Snub-nosed Langur is a medium-sized primate with a striking appearance. Their dense, greyish-brown fur contrasts with lighter underparts, and their small, upturned nose gives them a unique and endearing look. Their short, thick tail, resembling that of a pig, is another defining feature (IUCN, 2020).

These langurs are diurnal and arboreal, spending most of their time in the forest canopy. They live in social groups of up to 20 individuals, where they engage in complex communication and social bonding. Their dynamic foraging strategies allow them to adapt to the heterogeneous environments of the Mentawai Islands.

This species is listed as Critically Endangered because a population decline of 80-90% over the last 36 years (three generations) is estimated due to heavy hunting pressure and extensive habitat loss (especially on southern islands but quite significant throughout species range). The Pig-tailed Snub-nosed Langur is threatened mainly by heavy hunting and commercial logging (Whittaker 2006, Quinten et al. 2014).
IUCN Red List

Diet

The Pig-tailed Snub-nosed Langur is primarily folivorous, feeding on a variety of leaves, but they also consume fruits, seeds, and flowers when available. This specialised diet ties them closely to their forest environment, making them highly vulnerable to habitat destruction and fragmentation (IUCN, 2020).

Reproduction and Mating

As with many langurs, this species is believed to have a low reproductive rate. Females give birth to a single infant after a long gestation period, and young langurs are raised with the support of the social group. This cooperative behaviour is vital for ensuring the survival of the next generation in their challenging environment.

Geographic Range

The Pig-tailed Snub-nosed Langur is restricted to the Mentawai Islands, including Siberut, Sipora, and North and South Pagai. These islands are home to diverse but fragile ecosystems, where this species relies on primary and secondary forests for survival. Their limited geographic range makes them highly vulnerable to localised threats (IUCN, 2020).

Threats

They are also threatened by the conversion of rainforest into oil palm plantations, as well as forest clearing and product extraction by local people. Sometimes, animals are taken for the pet trade (Whittaker 2006).
IUCN Red LIST

Palm oil and timber deforestation: The rapid expansion of out-of-control palm oil plantations, logging, and agricultural activities has resulted in the widespread destruction of the Mentawai Islands’ forests.
Illegal hunting for bushmeat: The langur is heavily hunted for bushmeat, a significant threat in local communities.
Habitat Fragmentation: Infrastructure development and forest clearing have fragmented their habitats, isolating populations and reducing genetic diversity.

Take Action!

Protecting the Pig-tailed Snub-nosed Langur requires urgent conservation measures to halt deforestation and hunting. By boycotting products containing palm oil, supporting indigenous-led conservation initiatives, and advocating for forest preservation, you can help safeguard this critically endangered primate. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife #Vegan

Conservation

Conservation efforts for these critically endangered small primates is underway. Read more about Asian Species Action Partnership (ASAP) in Indonesia.

Further Information

Quinten, M, Setiawan, A., Cheyne, S., Traeholt, C. & Whittaker, D. 2020. Simias concolor. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2020: e.T20229A17953422. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2020-2.RLTS.T20229A17953422.en. Downloaded on 31 January 2021.

Zhao, L., et al. (2024). Dynamic foraging strategy adaptation to heterogeneous environments contributes to social aggregation in snub-nosed monkeys. Zoological Research, 45(1), 39–54. https://doi.org/10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2023.047

Wikipedia. (n.d.). Pig-tailed Langur. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pig-tailed_langur

GBIF. (n.d.). Simias concolor. Retrieved from https://www.gbif.org/species/4267130

Pig-tailed Snub-nosed Langur Simias concolor

How can I help the #Boycott4Wildlife?

Take Action in Five Ways

1. Join the #Boycott4Wildlife on social media and subscribe to stay in the loop: Share posts from this website to your own network on Twitter, Mastadon, Instagram, Facebook and Youtube using the hashtags #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife.

✓ Subscribed

2. Contribute stories: Academics, conservationists, scientists, indigenous rights advocates and animal rights advocates working to expose the corruption of the palm oil industry or to save animals can contribute stories to the website.

Wildlife Artist Juanchi Pérez

Health Physician Dr Evan Allen

3. Supermarket sleuthing: Next time you’re in the supermarket, take photos of products containing palm oil. Share these to social media along with the hashtags to call out the greenwashing and ecocide of the brands who use palm oil. You can also take photos of palm oil free products and congratulate brands when they go palm oil free.

https://twitter.com/CuriousApe4/status/1526136783557529600?s=20

https://twitter.com/PhillDixon1/status/1749010345555788144?s=20

https://twitter.com/mugabe139/status/1678027567977078784?s=20

4. Take to the streets: Get in touch with Palm Oil Detectives to find out more.

5. Donate: Make a one-off or monthly donation to Palm Oil Detectives as a way of saying thank you and to help pay for ongoing running costs of the website and social media campaigns. Donate here

Pledge your support

#Boycott4wildlife #BoycottPalmOil #CottonHeadedTamarinSaguinusOedipus #CriticallyEndangeredSpecies #deforestation #endangered #extinction #Indonesia #langur #Langurs #Mammal #palmoil #Primate #Sumatra #vegan

Pig-tailed Snub-nosed Langur Simias concolor

Conservation activists suing Indonesian zoo could inspire global action on endangered species trade

In a court in rural #Indonesia, an environmental group recently filed a lawsuit of global importance. Their case is against a zoo in North #Sumatra that it’s alleged illegally exhibited threatened species, including Komodo dragons and critically endangered Sumatran #orangutans. The illegal wildlife trade is a multibillion-dollar industry that threatens species globally, from #elephants to orchids. Plants, animals and fungi are harvested from the wild and sold to customers around the world as attractions in zoos, as pets, for food, as souvenirs or as medicine. Help animals and #BoycottWildlifeTrade #Boycott4Wildlife

People caught trafficking wildlife are typically tried in criminal law cases, in which courts impose fines or prison sentences that punish the responsible parties in order to deter would-be criminals. But in this recent case, rather than seek punishment against the Indonesian zoo, the activists brought a civil lawsuit ordering the zoo to remedy the harm it allegedly caused by exhibiting these species illegally.

Lawsuit by activists against #zoo in #Indonesia for harm caused by illegally exhibiting endangered #species was successful. It’s a new way to protect #wildlife from illegal and cruel #trafficking #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife Images @CraigJones17 https://palmoildetectives.com/2022/04/03/conservation-activists-suing-indonesian-zoo-could-inspire-global-action-on-endangered-species-trade/

Share to BlueSky Share to Twitter This siamang has spent her whole life in this cage, a vision that was a true nightmare. Craig Jones Wildlife PhotographyA Sumatran tiger help in a tiny cage struggles to stay alive. Craig Jones Wildlife photography A captured Siamang and a captured tiger in Indonesia. Photos by Craig Jones Wildlife Photography

In the press release announcing the lawsuit, the North Sumatra Chapter of the Indonesian Forum for the Environment (Walhi Sumut) and Medan Legal Aid Institute said they were suing to cover the costs of care for one Sumatran orangutan confiscated from the zoo, and to fund monitoring of orangutan habitat to aid the recovery of their wild population. The resulting bill exceeds US$70,000 (£49,438). The typical criminal sanction for wildlife crime in Indonesia is around US$3,500.

One of the orangutans in the zoo before it was confiscated in 2019. Walhi North Sumatra, Author provided

The activists are also asking the zoo to publicly apologise and to create educational exhibits that explain how the illegal trade and use of wildlife harms nature and society. Surprisingly, these types of legal strategies that aim to repair harm – rather than punish perpetrators – have been largely overlooked by conservationists in many countries. The Indonesian zoo lawsuit could demonstrate the value of a new legal approach for protecting threatened wildlife.

Komodo dragons were illegally exhibited at the zoo. Anna Kucherova/Shutterstock

Historical precedents

The zoo lawsuit parallels landmark pollution cases, such as the Exxon Valdez and Deepwater Horizon oil spills, where the responsible parties (in these cases, oil companies) were sued by government agencies and citizens and required to clean up pollution, compensate victims and restore affected habitats. It is also similar to innovative climate change lawsuits that have argued for the world’s largest oil and gas companies to pay for building protective sea walls, and other measures which help mitigate the effects of global warming.

Similar legal approaches haven’t been a major part of enforcing conservation laws. But through our work in Conservation Litigation – a project led by conservationists and lawyers – colleagues and I are working to bring such lawsuits against offenders globally.

Many countries already have laws that would allow these lawsuits, including in biodiversity hotspots such as Mexico, Democratic Republic of Congo and Indonesia. The 1992 UN Rio Convention called on states to “develop national law[s] regarding liability compensation for the victims of pollution and other environmental damage”. Although laws that oblige offenders to remedy environmental harm have been established already, the Indonesian zoo case is unique as one of the first times such a law has been applied to address wildlife crime. https://player.vimeo.com/video/510514912

The case could serve to influence public views and policies around biodiversity. This has been an important benefit of litigation in other areas, such as in cases against tobacco companies and opioid manufacturers.

Over the years, these lawsuits have secured compensation for healthcare costs, public admissions of guilt from executives and corrective adversiting to clarify earlier misinformation. These cases have not only benefited individual victims, but helped shift attitudes and reform public health policies and company practices.

The zoo lawsuit could achieve something similar by holding the zoo liable for downstream harms caused by its involvement in the illegal wildlife trade. By requesting public apologies and support for educational programmes, the lawsuit would not only seek to remedy harm to individual animals and species, but to help shape public perceptions and policy.

It’s also significant that this case is being brought by a non-governmental organisation (NGO). Governments can bring criminal cases against offenders, while the NGOs cannot. But in many countries, citizens and civil society groups are permitted to launch civil lawsuits in response to environmental harm, expanding the potential for public conservation action.

These types of lawsuits are often hindered by difficulties paying lawyers, corruption in legal systems and the intimidation of activists. With more than one million species potentially facing extinction, it’s important to recognise and support these rare cases which are testing new ways to protect the planet’s most threatened forms of life.

Jacob Phelps, Senior Lecturer in Conservation Governance, Lancaster University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

How can I help the #Boycott4Wildlife?

1. Join the #Boycott4Wildlife: Share posts from this website to your own network on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook using the hashtags #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife.

2. Contribute stories: Academics, conservationists, scientists, indigenous rights advocates and animal rights advocates working to expose the corruption of the palm oil industry or to save animals can contribute stories to the website.

3. Supermarket sleuthing: Next time you’re in the supermarket, take photos of products containing palm oil. Share these to social media along with the hashtags to call out the greenwashing and ecocide of the brands who use palm oil. You can also take photos of palm oil free products and congratulate brands when they go palm oil free.

4. Take to the streets: Get in touch with Palm Oil Detectives to find out more.

5. Donate: Make a one-off or monthly donation to Palm Oil Detectives as a way of saying thank you or to help pay for ongoing running costs.

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#animalBehaviour #animalCruelty #animalExtinction #animalRights #AnimalCruelty #animalrights #Boycott4wildlife #BoycottPalmOil #BoycottWildlifeTrade #corruption #crime #deforestation #ecocide #elephants #illegalPetTrade #Indonesia #orangutans #petTrade #species #Sumatra #SumatranOrangutanPongoAbelii #trafficking #wildlife #wildlifeActivism #wildlifetrade #Zoo

A Sumatran tiger help in a tiny cage struggles to stay alive. Craig Jones Wildlife photography

This siamang has spent her whole life in this cage, a vision that was a true nightmare. Craig Jones Wildlife Photography

Deforestation-driven Climate Change and Natural Disasters

Deforestation in Indonesia is worsening the impact of severe weather events such as floods and landslides, as seen in West Sumatra in March 2024. Environmental groups cite deforestation and environmental degradation as key factors in intensifying natural disasters. Indonesia’s rainforests, crucial for biodiversity and indigenous livelihoods, have been heavily logged for palm oil, paper, and mining. Despite government efforts to slow deforestation, including a palm oil permit freeze, illegal logging and large-scale developments continue to threaten forest areas. Experts warn that more equable land planning is needed to mitigate future disasters. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife

#Palmoil 🌴 #nickel 🧺 and #paper 📰 #deforestation in #Indonesia 🇮🇩 has accelerated the frequency and severity of extreme weather: #floods and #landslides as seen in #Sumatra. Fight back and #BoycottPalmOil 🌴🔥⛔️ #Boycott4Wildlife @palmoildetect https://palmoildetectives.com/2024/11/27/deforestation-driven-climate-change-intensifies-natural-disasters-in-indonesia/

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#Climatechange ⛈️ and #deforestation 🔥🔥 in #Indonesia 🇮🇩 is being driven to a point of no return say experts, citing massive #forest loss for #palmoil 🌴⛔️ and #nickel #mining. Take action when you #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife @palmoildetect https://palmoildetectives.com/2024/11/27/deforestation-driven-climate-change-intensifies-natural-disasters-in-indonesia/

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Written by Victoria Milko. Originally published by Associated Press, 30 March, 2024. Original title: ‘In Indonesia, deforestation is intensifying disasters from severe weather and climate change’. Excerpt published, read the original article.

The shelves in supermarkets and stores are full of certified products. The packaging displays different labels indicating products were made with “sustainable” paper or wood, food or cosmetic products made with “sustainable” palm oil, “responsible” soybeans and so on and so forth.

In Jakarta Indonesia, roads turned to murky brown rivers, homes were swept away by strong currents and bodies were pulled from mud during deadly flash floods and landslides after torrential rains hit West Sumatra in early March, marking one of the latest deadly natural disasters in Indonesia.

Government officials blamed the floods on heavy rainfall, but environmental groups have cited the disaster as the latest example of deforestation and environmental degradation intensifying the effects of severe weather across Indonesia.

“This disaster occurred not only because of extreme weather factors, but because of the ecological crisis,” Indonesian environmental rights group Indonesian Forum for the Environment wrote in a statement. “If the environment continues to be ignored, then we will continue to reap ecological disasters.”

A vast tropical archipelago stretching across the equator, Indonesia is home to the world’s third-largest rainforest, with a variety of endangered wildlife and plants, including orangutans, elephants, giant and blooming forest flowers. Some live nowhere else.

For generations the forests have also provided livelihoods, food, and medicine while playing a central role in cultural practices for millions of Indigenous residents in Indonesia.

Since 1950, more than 74 million hectares (285,715 square miles) of Indonesian rainforest — an area twice the size of Germany — have been logged, burned or degraded for development of palm oil, paper and rubber plantations, mining and other commodities according to Global Forest Watch.

Indonesia is the biggest producer of palm oil, one of the largest exporters of coal and a top producer of pulp for paper. It also exports oil and gas, rubber, tin and other resources. And it also has the world’s largest reserves of nickel — a critical material for electric vehicles, solar panels and other goods needed for the green energy transition.

Indonesia has consistently ranked as one of the largest global emitters of plant-warming greenhouse gases, with its emissions stemming from the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation and peatland fires, according to the Global Carbon Project.

Read the remainder of the article on AP

Written by Victoria Milko. Originally published by Associated Press, 30 March, 2024. Original title: ‘In Indonesia, deforestation is intensifying disasters from severe weather and climate change’. Excerpt published, read the original article.

ENDS

Read more about human rights abuses and child slavery in the palm oil industry

Palm Oil Threatens Ancient Noken Weaving in West Papua

Colonial palm oil and sugarcane causing the loss of West Papuans’ cultural identity. Land grabs force communities from forests, threatening Noken weaving

An explosive report by the Environment Investigation Agency (EIA) details how Indonesia’s Fangiono family, through a wide corporate web, is linked to ongoing #deforestation, #corruption, and #indigenousrights abuses for #palmoil. Calls mount for…

Indigenous Melanesian women in West Papua fight land seizures for palm oil and sugar plantations, protecting their ancestral rights. Join #BoycottPalmOil

A landmark study published in Global Studies Quarterly in April 2025 has revealed that the rapid expansion of the #palmoil industry in #WestPapua is not only fuelling #deforestation, #ecocide and environmental destruction but…

Indonesian palm oil workers expose industry practices that mirror colonial exploitation: land grabbing, bad conditions, ecocide. Systemic change is needed!

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Take Action in Five Ways

1. Join the #Boycott4Wildlife on social media and subscribe to stay in the loop: Share posts from this website to your own network on Twitter, Mastadon, Instagram, Facebook and Youtube using the hashtags #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife.

✓ Subscribed

2. Contribute stories: Academics, conservationists, scientists, indigenous rights advocates and animal rights advocates working to expose the corruption of the palm oil industry or to save animals can contribute stories to the website.

Wildlife Artist Juanchi Pérez

Health Physician Dr Evan Allen

3. Supermarket sleuthing: Next time you’re in the supermarket, take photos of products containing palm oil. Share these to social media along with the hashtags to call out the greenwashing and ecocide of the brands who use palm oil. You can also take photos of palm oil free products and congratulate brands when they go palm oil free.

https://twitter.com/CuriousApe4/status/1526136783557529600?s=20

https://twitter.com/PhillDixon1/status/1749010345555788144?s=20

https://twitter.com/mugabe139/status/1678027567977078784?s=20

4. Take to the streets: Get in touch with Palm Oil Detectives to find out more.

5. Donate: Make a one-off or monthly donation to Palm Oil Detectives as a way of saying thank you and to help pay for ongoing running costs of the website and social media campaigns. Donate here

Pledge your support

#Boycott4wildlife #BoycottPalmOil #climateChange #ClimateAction #climatechange #climatecrisis #ClimateEmergency #deforestation #floods #Forest #Indonesia #landslides #mining #nickel #palmoil #paper #Sumatra

Deforestation-driven Climate Change Intensifies Natural Disasters in Indonesia

Deforestation-driven Climate Change Intensifies Natural Disasters in Indonesia, flood

Deforestation-driven Climate Change Intensifies Natural Disasters in Indonesia, flood, palm oil

Du möchtest wissen, was Bonjol mit dem Äquator zu tun hat? Der Ort liegt direkt an der Transsumatra-Hauptstraße, genau dort, wo die Welt sich geografisch teilt. Doch Bonjol ist mehr als nur ein Punkt auf der Karte: Geschichte, Religion und koloniale Erinnerung treffen hier aufeinander. Und ja – auch wir haben es getan: We crossed the Equator.

https://travel-see-xperience.com/2025/10/12/bonjol-wir-ueberqueren-den-aequator

#Indonesien #Sumatra #Asien #Bonjol

#Acalolepta niasana is a species of #beetle in the family #Cerambycidae. It was described by #StephanVonBreuning in 1969. It is known from #Sumatra.

Mentawi Flying Squirrel Iomys sipora

Mentawi Flying Squirrel Iomys sipora

IUCN Status: Endangered

Location: Indonesia (Mentawai Islands: Sipura and North Pagai)

The #Mentawi Flying #Squirrel (Iomys sipora), endemic to the remote Mentawai Islands of Indonesia, is a rare and elusive species that glides effortlessly through the dense tropical canopy. Unlike their more widespread relatives, these unique flying squirrels are confined to just two islands, #Sipura and North Pagai, where they depend entirely on the survival of lowland primary forests. With velvety fur, large nocturnal eyes, and a patagium—an outstretched skin membrane allowing them to glide between trees—these squirrels are adapted to a life above the ground. However, relentless deforestation for palm oil plantations, logging, and agriculture has devastated their habitat, putting them at serious risk of extinction. Despite repeated surveys, including a 1991 study by the National Museum of #Indonesia, sightings of Iomys sipora are alarmingly rare, raising fears that their population may be critically low—or even lost. With no conservation measures in place, urgent action is needed to prevent their disappearance. Boycott #deforestation-linked products and support indigenous-led conservation. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife.

Gliding between trees in #Indonesia 🇮🇩with effortless grace, the Mentawi Flying #Squirrel 🦦is a sight to behold. They need #rainforest to survive. #PalmOil is a threat, make sure you #BoycottPalmOil 🌴🪔💀🤮🧐🙊⛔️ #Boycott4Wildlife @palmoildetect https://palmoildetectives.com/2021/02/05/mentawi-flying-squirrel-iomys-sipora/

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This squirrel is threatened by forest loss due to logging and agricultural conversion.
IUCN Red list

Appearance and Behaviour

The world’s gliding mammals are an extraordinary group of animals that have the ability to glide from tree to tree with seemingly effortless grace. There are more than 60 species of gliding mammals including the flying squirrels from Europe and North America, the scaly-tailed flying squirrels from central Africa and the gliding possums of Australia and New Guinea.

The Mentawi Flying Squirrel is a striking and little-documented species with dense, velvety fur ranging from reddish-brown to deep grey. Their large, round eyes are adapted for night vision, enabling them to forage under the cover of darkness. A defining feature of this species is its patagium— a thin membrane of skin stretching between its limbs—that allows them to glide through the air with remarkable agility. This natural adaptation enables them to travel between trees without descending to the forest floor, avoiding predators while seeking food. Despite their impressive gliding ability, their dependence on intact rainforest means they struggle to survive in fragmented landscapes, making habitat loss a critical threat.

Threats

The Mentawi Flying Squirrel lives in primary forests up to 500 m. Habitat loss on the two islands represents a major threat to this lowland species.

Palm Oil Deforestation and Habitat Destruction

The Mentawai Islands are experiencing rapid deforestation, with lowland primary forests being cleared for palm oil plantations, logging, and agriculture. Iomys sipora relies entirely on undisturbed rainforest, and the loss of old-growth trees has significantly reduced available nesting sites and food sources. Once widespread, they are now found in just two fragmented locations, and their numbers are declining.

Illegal Wildlife Trade Extirpation

A 1991 survey failed to locate any individuals, raising concerns that populations may already be critically low or locally extinct. Habitat degradation and fragmentation mean that surviving populations are likely small and isolated, making recovery efforts increasingly difficult.

Agricultural Expansion and Infrastructure

Beyond palm oil, the Mentawai Islands face destruction from logging, rubber plantations, and road development, which further degrade the remaining habitat. Unlike more adaptable rodents, these flying squirrels cannot survive in secondary forests, making primary forest loss particularly devastating.

Climate Change and Extreme Weather Patterns

Climate change is altering rainfall patterns and increasing temperatures, which could further threaten this species’ delicate forest ecosystem. Rising temperatures may also affect fruiting seasons, reducing their food supply and further impacting their already struggling population.

Diet

Like other flying squirrels, Iomys sipora is primarily herbivorous, feeding on a mix of fruits, seeds, leaves, and flowers. Their diet plays a vital role in seed dispersal, helping regenerate their native rainforest. They rely on old-growth trees, which provide an abundance of food sources, but as these trees are felled, their dietary options become severely limited.

Reproduction and Mating

Due to the extreme rarity of Iomys sipora, very little is known about their reproductive habits. However, they are presumed to be solitary nesters, using tree hollows to raise their young. Like other flying squirrels, females likely give birth to one or two pups per litter, which remain dependent on their mothers until they develop the ability to glide and forage independently. The loss of old-growth trees also removes critical nesting sites, impacting their reproductive success and ability to recover from population losses.

Geographic Range

The Mentawi Flying Squirrel is restricted to two islands in Indonesia:

• Sipura Island

• North Pagai Island

Both islands are part of the Mentawai Archipelago, located off the coast of Sumatra. Their habitat is limited to lowland tropical primary forests below 500 metres above sea level, an ecosystem rapidly disappearing due to human activity.

FAQs

Why is the Mentawi Flying Squirrel endangered?

This species is classified as endangered due to its highly restricted range and ongoing deforestation. Logging, palm oil plantations, and habitat destruction have driven it to the brink, with no known conservation measures in place to protect its remaining populations.

Do Mentawi Flying Squirrels make good pets?

No. The illegal pet trade has devastating effects on wildlife, and keeping a Mentawi Flying Squirrel as a pet would contribute to their decline. These animals are highly specialised and cannot survive in captivity, often dying due to stress or inadequate care. Removing individuals from the wild further destabilises already fragile populations. If you care about their survival, support habitat protection and never purchase exotic pets.

How does palm oil impact the Mentawi Flying Squirrel?

Palm oil plantations are a primary driver of deforestation in Indonesia, replacing biodiverse rainforests with monoculture wastelands that provide no habitat for native species. These plantations have destroyed much of the Mentawai Islands’ primary forest, leaving little space for this already endangered species. Boycotting palm oil products is a direct way to protect their habitat.

How can we protect the Mentawi Flying Squirrel?

The most important conservation efforts include:

• Protecting remaining old-growth forests on the Mentawai Islands.

• Supporting indigenous-led conservation efforts, which are crucial for preserving biodiversity.

• Boycotting palm oil and timber products linked to deforestation.

• Encouraging reforestation projects in degraded areas to restore lost habitat.

Support the conservation of this species

This animal has no protections in place. Read about other forgotten species here. Create art to support this forgotten animal or raise awareness about them by sharing this post and using the #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife hashtags on social media. Also you can boycott palm oil in the supermarket.

Further Information

Gliding Mammals of the world

Lee, B. 2016. Iomys sipora (errata version published in 2017). The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016: e.T10846A115099877. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2016-3.RLTS.T10846A22249119.en. Downloaded on 04 February 2021.

Ruedas, L., Duckworth, J. W., Lee, B., & Tizard, R. J. (2008). Iomys sipora. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8317177/.

Wikipedia. (2024). Mentawi Flying Squirrel. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mentawi_flying_squirrel.

Mentawi Flying Squirrel Iomys sipora

Caption: This beautiful painting is by My YM

How can I help the #Boycott4Wildlife?

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Wildlife Artist Juanchi Pérez

Health Physician Dr Evan Allen

3. Supermarket sleuthing: Next time you’re in the supermarket, take photos of products containing palm oil. Share these to social media along with the hashtags to call out the greenwashing and ecocide of the brands who use palm oil. You can also take photos of palm oil free products and congratulate brands when they go palm oil free.

https://twitter.com/CuriousApe4/status/1526136783557529600?s=20

https://twitter.com/PhillDixon1/status/1749010345555788144?s=20

https://twitter.com/mugabe139/status/1678027567977078784?s=20

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#Agriculture #Boycott4wildlife #BoycottPalmOil #deforestation #EndangeredSpecies #ForgottenAnimals #glidingMammal #Indonesia #Mammal #Mentawi #MentawiFlyingSquirrelIomysSipora #palmoil #rainforest #rodent #rodents #Sipura #SouthEastAsia #Squirrel #Sumatra

Sumatran Elephant Elephas maximus sumatranus

Sumatran Elephant Elephas maximus sumatranus

Critically Endangered

Population: 2,400 – 2,800

The Sumatran elephant is a critically endangered subspecies of the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), confined to the island of Sumatra in Indonesia. As one of the world’s largest land mammals, they play a vital role in their ecosystem as keystone species, facilitating seed dispersal and maintaining forest biodiversity. Tragically, their population has been reduced by more than 80% in the last 75 years due to palm oil deforestation and poaching.
With fewer than 2,400 individuals estimated to remain in the wild, the Sumatran elephant is at immediate risk of extinction. Protect their future by boycotting palm oil products and advocating for stronger conservation efforts. Use your voice and wallet as weapons. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-BdEF0EBng

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5olrnYKT4Q

Sumatran #Elephants are rapidly disappearing 🐘🐘💀 critically endangered in #Sumatra #Indonesia due to #palmoil #deforestation and #poaching. Help them to survive when you #BoycottPalmOil 🌴🪔🤮☠️⛔️ #Boycott4Wildlife @palmoildetect https://palmoildetectives.com/2021/01/19/sumatran-elephant-elephas-maximus-sumatranus/

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Lighter coloured than other #pachyderms, Sumatran #Elephants deserve to live in freedom. They’re 🐘💀 critically endangered in #Indonesia 🇮🇩 due to #palmoil #deforestation and #poaching. #BoycottPalmOil 🌴🪔🤮☠️⛔️ #Boycott4Wildlife @palmoildetect https://palmoildetectives.com/2021/01/19/sumatran-elephant-elephas-maximus-sumatranus/

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While Sumatra is home to several of the country’s largest national parks, many areas in these parks are destroyed—illegally—to produce palm oil. The elephant population across the island is crashing, with far fewer than 3,000 surviving, as herds are left homeless, harassed and killed due to intense conflict with people over shrinking habitat. Their decline is closely linked to the rapid expansion of palm oil plantations, illegal logging, and human-wildlife conflicts.

The Asian Elephant is one of the last few mega-herbivores (i.e. plant-eating mammals that reach an adult body weight in excess of 1,000 kg) still extant on earth (Owen-Smith, 1988). Being hindgut fermenters with relatively poor digestive efficiency (Dumonceaux 2006), elephants must consume large quantities of food per day to meet energy requirements. The lack of reliable population estimates across most of the Asian elephant range presents a considerable challenge to detecting such declines.

Nevertheless, from what is known about trends in habitat loss and other threats including poaching, an overall population decline of at least 50% since 1945 over the last three generations (estimated to be 75 years, based on a generation time estimated to be 25 years) seems realistic. The Sumatran subspecies is listed as Critically Endangered

Appearance and Behaviour

Sumatran elephants are smaller than their mainland Asian relatives, with males standing between 2 and 3.2 metres tall and weighing up to 5,000 kilograms. Their lighter grey skin often features depigmented patches on the ears and trunk, which are particularly prominent in this subspecies. These elephants have larger ears relative to other Asian elephants, an adaptation that helps them regulate body temperature in Sumatra’s tropical climate (Nurcahyo et al., 2023).

An anatomical distinction of Sumatran elephants is their 20 pairs of ribs—one more than other Asian elephant subspecies. Male elephants typically develop long tusks, while females either lack visible tusks or have small, rudimentary ones. Their physical adaptations and behaviours are crucial for surviving in dense, tropical forests and swamps, where they navigate their environment with remarkable dexterity.

Geographical Range

Historically, Sumatran elephants roamed throughout the island’s lowland rainforests, peat swamps, and grasslands. Today, their habitat has been reduced to just a fraction of its original range, with an estimated 69% of suitable habitat lost between 1985 and 2009 (Hedges et al., 2020). Their remaining populations are concentrated in fragmented forest patches in the provinces of Aceh, Riau, Lampung, and North Sumatra.

The expansion of palm oil plantations is a primary driver of habitat destruction, with millions of hectares of forest cleared to meet global demand. Fragmented habitats force elephants into smaller areas, increasing the risk of inbreeding, resource competition, and conflict with humans (Setiawan et al., 2019).

Population Status

The Sumatran elephant population is estimated to be between 2,400 and 2,800 individuals, down from tens of thousands just decades ago. This decline represents the loss of hundreds of elephants annually due to habitat destruction, poaching, and conflict (Hedges et al., 2020). If current trends continue, the species could face extinction within 30 years.

Diet

Sumatran elephants are herbivorous and consume over 200 plant species, including grasses, fruits, leaves, bark, and roots. They consume up to 150 kilograms of vegetation daily, playing a critical role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration. Elephants forage over large areas, often moving between different forest types to meet their dietary needs (Nurcahyo et al., 2023).

Reproduction and Mating

Female Sumatran elephants have a gestation period of approximately 22 months, the longest of any land mammal. They typically give birth to a single calf every four to five years. Calves weigh 80–120 kilograms at birth and are highly dependent on their mothers for the first two years of life. These slow reproductive rates make population recovery challenging, particularly in the face of ongoing threats (Setiawan et al., 2019).

Threats

Sumatran elephants are protected under Indonesian law, but enforcement is often weak. Conservation efforts focus on habitat restoration, anti-poaching patrols, and mitigating human-elephant conflicts. Protected areas, such as Gunung Leuser and Way Kambas National Parks, are crucial for the survival of remaining populations. However, deforestation within these protected areas remains a significant challenge (Hedges et al., 2020).

IUCN Status: Critically Endangered

Palm oil deforestation: The rapid conversion of forests into palm oil plantations has destroyed large portions of the elephants’ habitat. Between 1985 and 2009, Sumatra lost nearly half its forest cover (Hedges et al., 2020).
Human-Elephant Conflict: As elephants venture into agricultural areas, they are often perceived as pests. This results in retaliatory killings, which account for significant population losses each year (Nurcahyo et al., 2023).
Poaching: Male elephants are heavily targeted for their ivory, which is illegally traded. Despite national protections, poaching continues to drive population declines (Setiawan et al., 2019).
Climate Change: Rising temperatures, altered rainfall patterns and extreme weather events threaten the availability of food and water resources, further stressing elephant populations (Nurcahyo et al., 2023).

Take Action!

Protect the Sumatran elephant by boycotting palm oil products, supporting reforestation initiatives, and advocating for stricter wildlife protection laws. Every purchase matters. Fight for their survival with #BoycottPalmOil and #Boycott4Wildlife.

Spotlight on Sumatran Elephants – Craig Jones Wildlife Photography

Without direct intervention in the national parks the Orangutans along with other forest-dependant wildlife- like the Sumatran Tigers and Elephants will become progressively scarcer until their populations are no longer viable. Spotlight Sumatra – The Final Chapter by Craig Jones

Help the organisations helping these beautiful animals

Sumatran Elephant Conservation Initiative e.V.

Way Kambas National Park Sumatra

Further Information

Gopala, A., Hadian, O., Sunarto, ., Sitompul, A., Williams, A., Leimgruber, P., Chambliss, S.E. & Gunaryadi, D. 2011. Elephas maximus ssp. sumatranus. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2011: e.T199856A9129626. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2011-2.RLTS.T199856A9129626.en. Downloaded on 19 January 2021

Nurcahyo, A., et al. (2023). The movement pattern and home range of Sumatran elephants in the Mila-Tangse landscape. ResearchGate. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/369190606

Setiawan, I., et al. (2019). Recent observations of Sumatran elephants in Sembilang National Park, South Sumatra. Journal of Tropical Forest Science, 31(2), 299–308. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/334776259

BBC Earth. (2020). Sumatran Elephant: Project Hope. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/profiles/28hWyXFGHPhm20nTVG4pT0n/sumatran-elephant

Wikipedia contributors. (2023). Sumatran elephant. In Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sumatran_elephant

Sumatran Elephant Elephas maximus sumatranus

How can I help the #Boycott4Wildlife?

Take Action in Five Ways

1. Join the #Boycott4Wildlife on social media and subscribe to stay in the loop: Share posts from this website to your own network on Twitter, Mastadon, Instagram, Facebook and Youtube using the hashtags #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife.

✓ Subscribed

2. Contribute stories: Academics, conservationists, scientists, indigenous rights advocates and animal rights advocates working to expose the corruption of the palm oil industry or to save animals can contribute stories to the website.

Wildlife Artist Juanchi Pérez

Health Physician Dr Evan Allen

3. Supermarket sleuthing: Next time you’re in the supermarket, take photos of products containing palm oil. Share these to social media along with the hashtags to call out the greenwashing and ecocide of the brands who use palm oil. You can also take photos of palm oil free products and congratulate brands when they go palm oil free.

https://twitter.com/CuriousApe4/status/1526136783557529600?s=20

https://twitter.com/PhillDixon1/status/1749010345555788144?s=20

https://twitter.com/mugabe139/status/1678027567977078784?s=20

4. Take to the streets: Get in touch with Palm Oil Detectives to find out more.

5. Donate: Make a one-off or monthly donation to Palm Oil Detectives as a way of saying thank you and to help pay for ongoing running costs of the website and social media campaigns. Donate here

Pledge your support

#Bantrophyhunting #Borneo #Boycott4wildlife #BoycottPalmOil #CriticallyEndangeredSpecies #deforestation #elephants #Indonesia #Malaysia #Pachyderm #pachyderms #palmoil #poaching #pollination #pollinator #SeedDispersers #SouthEastAsia #Sumatra #SumatranElephantElephasMaximusSumatranus

Sumatran Elephant Elephas maximus sumatranus joyfully playing in a river by Craig Jones Wildlife Photography

Sumatran Elephant Elephas maximus sumatranus struggling to find food on a palm oil plantation

Sumatran Elephant Elephas maximus sumatranus joyfully playing in a river, close-up of face by Craig Jones Wildlife Photography

Bornean Orangutan Pongo pygmaeus

Bornean Orangutan Pongo pygmaeus

Critically Endangered

Population: 104,700

Bornean #Orangutans 🦧🧡 are our intelligent tree-dwelling cousins. They are critically endangered mainly from #palmoil #deforestation. Help them survive and #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife 🌴🪔🔥🚫 in the supermarket! Take action! @palmoildetect https://palmoildetectives.com/2021/01/19/bornean-orangutan-pongo-pygmaeus/

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Bornean #Orangutans are the largest tree-dwelling mammals in the world. Critically endangered by #palmoil #deforestation they are disappearing 😿⌛️ Help them every time you shop! 🌴💀🪔🙈⛔️#Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife!! @palmoildetect https://palmoildetectives.com/2021/01/19/bornean-orangutan-pongo-pygmaeus/

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Critically endangered Bornean Orangutans are the largest arboreal mammals in the world. Although they spend a lot of time in the trees they also walk significant distances on the ground. Historically, Bornean Orangutans were most abundant in in lowland rainforests and Dipterocarp mosaic forests, where movement between different habitats when there was a shortage of food. Their diet consists primarily of fruits, but also includes leaves, barks, flowers and insects. Their entire range is earmarked for destruction for palm oil and timber deforestation. They have become the symbols of palm oil related extinction risk and face a perilous future if we don’t STOP using palm oil RIGHT NOW. Help them and #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife

https://youtu.be/s8LoBfoupoE

Approximately a third of the entire Bornean Orangutan range was in commercial forest reserves exploited for timber, and about 45% was in forest areas earmarked for conversion to palm oil, agriculture or other land uses. A business-as-usual scenario, whereby non-protected forests would be converted along the lines of current development plans, will result in the loss of more than half of the current orangutan range on the island of Borneo in the next 50 years or so.
IUCN Red list

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fts6x_EE_E

Bornean Orangutan Pongo pygmaeus

Support the conservation of this beautiful animal

Orangutan Foundation International

Further Information

Ancrenaz, M., Gumal, M., Marshall, A.J., Meijaard, E., Wich , S.A. & Husson, S. 2016. Pongo pygmaeus (errata version published in 2018). The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016: e.T17975A123809220. https://dx.doi.o rg/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2016-1.RLTS.T17975A17966347.en. Downloaded on 24 January 2021.

How can I help the #Boycott4Wildlife?

Take Action in Five Ways

1. Join the #Boycott4Wildlife on social media and subscribe to stay in the loop: Share posts from this website to your own network on Twitter, Mastadon, Instagram, Facebook and Youtube using the hashtags #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife.

✓ Subscribed

2. Contribute stories: Academics, conservationists, scientists, indigenous rights advocates and animal rights advocates working to expose the corruption of the palm oil industry or to save animals can contribute stories to the website.

Wildlife Artist Juanchi Pérez

Health Physician Dr Evan Allen

3. Supermarket sleuthing: Next time you’re in the supermarket, take photos of products containing palm oil. Share these to social media along with the hashtags to call out the greenwashing and ecocide of the brands who use palm oil. You can also take photos of palm oil free products and congratulate brands when they go palm oil free.

https://twitter.com/CuriousApe4/status/1526136783557529600?s=20

https://twitter.com/PhillDixon1/status/1749010345555788144?s=20

https://twitter.com/mugabe139/status/1678027567977078784?s=20

4. Take to the streets: Get in touch with Palm Oil Detectives to find out more.

5. Donate: Make a one-off or monthly donation to Palm Oil Detectives as a way of saying thank you and to help pay for ongoing running costs of the website and social media campaigns. Donate here

Pledge your support

#BorneanOrangutanPongoPygmaeus #Borneo #Boycott4wildlife #BoycottPalmOil #CriticallyEndangeredSpecies #deforestation #Malaysia #Mammal #orangutans #palmoil #Primate #SouthEastAsia #Sumatra

🦧🌿 Cet orang-outan mâle de Sumatra, Raku, a surpris les scientifiques.
Blessé à la joue, il a appliqué sur sa plaie une liane médicinale (akar kuning, Fibranaurea tinctoria), connue pour ses propriétés antalgiques.

👉 Huit jours plus tard, la blessure commençait à guérir. Un mois plus tard, il était complètement rétabli.
Une observation rare et précieuse, preuve éclatante de l’ingéniosité et de la capacité d’automédication de ces magnifiques animaux ✨🦧

#Nature #OrangOutan #Insolite #Science #ComportementAnimal #Sumatra #Biodiversité

Can fly!
#travel #photography #Indonesia #Sumatra #adventure #explore

Gewalt für #Papier, Zellstoff und Viskose!
Auf #Sumatra wurde das Dorf #Sihaporas von Bewaffneten überfallen – mutmaßlich im Auftrag des Papierkonzerns Toba Pulp Lestari.
Mehr als 30 Menschen wurden verletzt, weil sie ihren Wald verteidigen. 🌳
„Zu viele indigene Batak sind Opfer der Gewalt der Papierindustrie geworden", sagt die Bewegung „Toba Pulp Lestari schließen!"
👉 Lies den Bericht & zeig Solidarität:
https://www.regenwald.org/news/14391/bewaffnete-ueberfallen-dorf-auf-sumatra

#RettetDenRegenwald #ActForRainforest #Indonesien #Waldschutz

Tiger Panthera tigris

Tiger Panthera tigris

Endangered

Population: Around 3,900

Extant (resident): India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, China, Russia

Tigers, primarily native to Asia’s tropical forests, have seen their habitats shrink dramatically over time. Notably, the Amur Tiger endures in Russia, and there have been sightings of these majestic creatures as high as 4,500 m in Bhutan. Tragically, fewer than 400 tigers remain in Indonesia, clinging to life in Sumatra’s dwindling forests. This decline is attributed to both rampant poaching and severe deforestation, especially for palm oil and pulp industries. As Asia continues to develop rapidly, the vast territories tigers need are shrinking, replaced by agriculture, commercial logging, and settlements. Moreover, tigers‘ prey faces threats from hunting and competition with domestic livestock. It’s time to act and use our wallet as a weapon: be #vegan #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife.

https://youtu.be/RfQDwtaIrvs

For 🇮🇩 Indonesia’s #tigers 🐅 fewer than 400 hang on to survival in rainforests of #Sumatra. Endangered by #poaching and #deforestation for #palmoil and timber. Boycott the brands sending them #extinct 😡🧐#Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife @palmoildetect https://wp.me/pcFhgU-fT

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The mighty and majestic #tiger 🐅🐯 of #Sumatra are on the brink of #extinction from #palmoil and #mining #deforestation. Less than 400 remain alive! 😭Use your wallet as a weapon and fight for them #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife 🌴🔥🚫 @palmoildetect https://wp.me/pcFhgU-fT

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Tigers, the largest members of the cat family, are renowned for their majestic presence and striking orange coats with black stripes. They possess extraordinary strength and agility and maintain the balance of ecosystems as apex predators. With fewer than 4,500 remaining in the wild, tigers are classified as Endangered, facing grave threats from habitat destruction for palm oil, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.

Their survival depends on urgent protection and animal advocacy. Protecting tigers ensures the preservation of the rich biodiversity within their habitats. Support their future by joining the #BoycottPalmOil and #Boycott4Wildlife movements.

Habitat

Tigers inhabit a wide variety of environments, including tropical rainforests, mangrove swamps, grasslands, and boreal forests. They require vast territories to hunt and breed, with males typically occupying larger ranges than females. Tigers are currently found in fragmented populations across Asia, with key strongholds in India, Sumatra, and Siberia.

These habitats are increasingly under threat due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development, which have reduced their historical range by over 93%.

Diet

As apex predators, tigers primarily hunt large prey, such as sambar deer, wild boar, and buffalo. They are known for their stealth and strength, often ambushing their prey with a single powerful strike. Unlike other big cats, tigers can swim to catch prey, a unique skill that sets them apart.

In areas with reduced prey availability, tigers may hunt smaller mammals or livestock, which can lead to conflicts with humans.

Appearance and Behaviour

• Swimming Ability: Tigers are strong swimmers, often crossing rivers and lakes to hunt or cool off—an unusual trait among big cats.

• Individualised Stripes: Their stripes serve as camouflage and are unique to each tiger, making them distinguishable even in dense foliage.

• Vocal Range: Tigers have a wide vocal range, including growls, roars, and chuffs, used to communicate with other tigers.

• Apex Predator Status: As the top predator in their ecosystems, tigers help maintain balance by regulating prey populations.

Tigers are uniquely recognisable by their bold stripe patterns, which are as individual as fingerprints. Their muscular builds, powerful limbs, and retractable claws make them adept hunters and swimmers, setting them apart from most other big cats. Unlike lions or cheetahs, tigers are solitary by nature and fiercely territorial.

Their physical features include a robust skull, long canine teeth, and strong jaw muscles designed for gripping and tearing prey. Tigers are also among the few big cats that enjoy water, often cooling off in rivers and lakes. Their signature behaviours include scent marking, vocalisations such as roars and chuffs, and stealthy stalking of prey.

Reproduction & Mating

Tigers reach sexual maturity at around 3-4 years of age. Breeding typically occurs year-round, but more frequently during the winter months. After a gestation period of approximately 100 days, females give birth to 2-4 cubs in secluded dens.

Cubs are dependent on their mothers for the first 18 months, learning essential survival skills like hunting. Only about half of all cubs survive to adulthood, as they face threats from predators, disease, and starvation.

Threats

Habitat Destruction: Deforestation for palm oil agriculture, timber logging, and development fragments their habitats, isolating populations.

• Poaching: Tigers are hunted for their skins, bones, and other body parts, often sold illegally for traditional medicine or as luxury items. Organisations like EIA directly combat this illegal trade.

• Prey Depletion: Overhunting of herbivores reduces food availability, impacting tiger populations.

• Human-Wildlife Conflict: As human settlements expand, conflicts arise, often leading to retaliation killings of tigers.

The last of Indonesia’s tigers—now fewer than 400—are holding on for survival in the remaining patches of forests on the island of Sumatra. While poaching claims most tigers each year, deforestation remains a serious threat.

Sumatra has lost more than half of its forests in the last 40 years, primarily due to conversion for palm oil and pulp plantations. Poaching for illegal trade in high-value Tiger products including skins, bones, meat and tonics is a primary threat to Tigers.

Asia is a densely populated and rapidly developing region, bringing huge pressures to bear on the large wild areas required for viable Tiger populations. Conversion of forest land to agriculture and silviculture, commercial logging, and human settlement are the main drivers of Tiger habitat loss. With their substantial dietary requirements,

Tigers require a healthy large ungulate prey base, but these species are also under heavy human subsistence hunting pressure and competition from domestic livestock.

Tigers are classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with fewer than 4,500 individuals remaining in the wild. While conservation efforts have stabilised some populations, habitat loss and poaching continue to pose significant challenges. Collaborative international efforts are crucial to ensuring their survival.

The last of Indonesia’s tigers—now fewer than 400—are holding on for survival in the remaining patches of forests on the island of Sumatra. While poaching claims most tigers each year, deforestation remains a serious threat.
IUCN RED LIST

Tiger Panthera Tigris

Support Tiger Protection

• Boycotting palm oil and other products linked to deforestation.

• Contributing to organisations that protect tiger habitats and combat illegal poaching and animal trafficking like Traffic and EIA.

• Raise awareness about the critical importance of tigers in maintaining healthy ecosystems by joining the #BoycottPalmOil and #Boycott4Wildlife movement.

Further Information

Britannica. (2024). Tiger. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/animal/tiger

Goodrich, J., Wibisono, H., Miquelle, D., Lynam, A.J., Sanderson, E., Chapman, S., Gray, T.N.E., Chanchani, P. & Harihar, A. 2022. Panthera tigris. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2022: e.T15955A214862019. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2022-1.RLTS.T15955A214862019.en. Accessed on 20 December 2024.

Panthera. (2024). Tiger. Retrieved from https://panthera.org/cat/tiger

Dalida Innes Wildlife Photography

How can I help the #Boycott4Wildlife?

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1. Join the #Boycott4Wildlife on social media and subscribe to stay in the loop: Share posts from this website to your own network on Twitter, Mastadon, Instagram, Facebook and Youtube using the hashtags #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife.

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Wildlife Artist Juanchi Pérez

Health Physician Dr Evan Allen

3. Supermarket sleuthing: Next time you’re in the supermarket, take photos of products containing palm oil. Share these to social media along with the hashtags to call out the greenwashing and ecocide of the brands who use palm oil. You can also take photos of palm oil free products and congratulate brands when they go palm oil free.

https://twitter.com/CuriousApe4/status/1526136783557529600?s=20

https://twitter.com/PhillDixon1/status/1749010345555788144?s=20

https://twitter.com/mugabe139/status/1678027567977078784?s=20

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5. Donate: Make a one-off or monthly donation to Palm Oil Detectives as a way of saying thank you and to help pay for ongoing running costs of the website and social media campaigns. Donate here

Pledge your support

#bigCat #Borneo #Boycott4wildlife #BoycottPalmOil #carnivores #deforestation #EndangeredSpecies #extinct #extinction #feline #Malaysia #mining #palmoil #poaching #predator #predators #SouthEastAsia #Sumatra #tiger #TigerPantheraTigris #tigers #vegan #wildcat

Craig Jones Wildlife Photography - A Bengal tiger drinking at a river

Tiger by Dalida Innes Wildlife Photography

Tiger in Bandhavgarh National Park, India. By Dalida Innes Wildlife Photography

Sumatran Tiger Panthera tigris sumatrae - Asia

The mighty and majestic #tiger 🐅🐯 of #Sumatra are on the brink of #extinction from #palmoil and #mining #deforestation. Less than 400 remain alive! 😭Use your wallet as a weapon and fight for them #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife 🌴🔥🚫

http://palmoildetectives.com/2021/01/20/tiger-panthera-tigris/

Crossing a bridge in Sumatra, Indonesia.

#travel #photography #indonesia #sumatra #explore #adventure

Im Hochland von Nord-Sumatra liegt der Tobasee. Er ist entstanden aus einem gewaltigen Vulkanausbruch und füllt heute eine riesige Caldera. In seinem Zentrum: Samosir, eine Insel, größer als viele Städte. Wer sich auf den Weg macht, trifft auf steile Hänge, alte Dörfer und Spuren einer Kultur, die sich nicht auf den ersten Blick erschließt.

https://travel-see-xperience.com/2025/10/05/tobasee-ein-naturparadies-voller-geschichte-kultur-und-magie

#Indonesien #Sumatra #Asien #Tobasee #Samosir

I played and won two rounds of #Sumatra tonight. 😎

It's one of the many #boardGames designed by #ReinerKnizia, with the typically weird #Knizia style game mechanics. His games are always somehow simple and somehow pretty complex at the same time.

https://youtu.be/JIz3fsQQcuQ

Sunda Clouded #leopards are agile ambush #predators 🐆 of #gibbons, wild #pigs and mouse deer in #Borneo and #Sumatra. #Palmoil deforestation is a huge threat to these #BigCats. Help them when you #Boycottpalmoil 🌴🔥💀🚫#Boycott4Wildlife @palmoildetect.bsky.social https://wp.me/pcFhgU-anN?utm_source=mastodon&utm_medium=Palm+Oil+Detectives&utm_campaign=publer

Drei Wochen Indonesien mit Stationen auf Sumatra, Java und Bali. Den Anfang macht Medan, die größte Stadt im Norden Sumatras. Eine Stadt voller Kontraste, Kulturen und überraschender Highlights. Von kulinarischen Entdeckungen auf lokalen Märkten bis hin zu beeindruckenden Moscheen und kolonialer Architektur – Medan hat uns wirklich überrascht.

https://travel-see-xperience.com/2025/09/28/medan-die-kulturelle-metropole-sumatras

#Indonesien #Sumatra #Asien #Medan

View from the Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) in southern Sumatra. Local environmental knowledge is not always a safeguard for the conservation of the environment. In a context of land scarcity and inability of the authorities to enforce the law, thousands of farmers, both local and migrants, encroach upon the Park to convert it into coffee plantations.
#Indonesia (2007)

#Sumatra
#environment
#NationalPark
#conservation
#farming
#coffee
#photography

#Sumatra

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