[SG] Infobus - ACRES Today 17;30 to 19;30hr

http://www.habbo.com.sg/news/acresinfobus

"The Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres) will be opening Singapore's first ever wildlife rescue centre, the Acres Wildlife Rescue Centre (AWRC) in 2007. Find out more and why this is so important."

Information about AWRC:

"The Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres) will be opening Singapore's first ever wildlife rescue centre, the Acres Wildlife Rescue Centre (AWRC) in 2007.

The Acres Wildlife Rescue Centre will be the first wildlife rescue centre in Singapore devoted solely to the housing of wild animals confiscated from the illegal wildlife trade. The AWRC will provide these animals with an ideal environment in which to rest and recuperate from the traumatic ordeal of being caught up in the exotic pet trade.

To find out more about the AWRC and how you can help play a role in this exciting new project please visit www.acres.org.sg

The Need for a Wildlife Rescue Centre in Singapore

The world's wildlife is disappearing, thanks to a booming trade in wild animals and their parts. This trade includes countless animals being poached from the wild to supply the growing demands of the illegal exotic pet trade.

In recent years, there has been an alarming increase in the illegal trade in protected species of wild animals. In Singapore, the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) has stepped up its enforcement efforts, leading to the rescue of an increasing number of illegally traded animals. More than 4,000 animals were seized from dealers and private homes in Singapore between 2001 and 2005.

There is currently no appropriate facility in Singapore for animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. Consequently, most rescued animals are either sent to inappropriate facilities or euthanised.

There is thus an urgent need to provide an appropriate home for these rescued animals. They have undoubtedly been subjected to severe stress from being caught up in the illegal wildlife trade; from the point of capture by cruel methods, to the inhumane transport conditions, to being held captive in inappropriate conditions. The AWRC will provide a safe haven for animals rescued from this cruel trade.

The AWRC will also play a vital role as a centre for education, raising much-needed awareness on the detrimental effects of the illegal wildlife trade. This educational work is vital in tackling this cruel and wasteful trade."