What we’ve found on the ground is that the illegal wildlife trade is converges at all levels. FLIGHT investigations have confirmed that many illegal bird traders are implicated in the illegal trade and smuggling of other wildlife. Therefore, while FLIGHT is primarily focused to saving wild birds, investigations have also supported the rescue of other species such as Forsten’s Tortoise from the illegal wildlife trade.

On November 3-6, 2023, FLIGHT supports the authorities (Central Sulawesi BKSDA, South Sulawesi BKSDA, Surabaya Quarantine, South Sulawesi Quarantine) to translocate and release dozens of confiscated Forsten’s Tortoises (Indotestudo Forstenii) to their natural habitat. These animals were rescued by Karantina Surabaya assisted by FLIGHT from a smuggling attempt at Tanjung Perak Port, Surabaya on September 28.

Forsten’s Tortoise is an endemic turtle to Sulawesi which since 2009 has been included in the Endangered (EN) category by IUCN and included in Appendix II by CITES.

Forsten’s Tortoise does not yet have protected status in Indonesia. However, the population is decreasing, one of which is caused by hunting and illegal wildlife trade.