Summary:
- The article discusses the use of trained rats wearing tiny backpacks to detect and identify wildlife trafficking. These "HeroRATs" are trained by an organization called APOPO to sniff out illegal wildlife products like elephant ivory and pangolin scales.
- The rats are highly effective at this task, as their keen sense of smell and small size allow them to access areas that are difficult for humans to search. They can quickly scan large shipments and alert authorities to the presence of contraband.
- The use of these trained rats is part of a broader effort to combat the illegal wildlife trade, which is a major driver of biodiversity loss and species extinction. By deploying these innovative detection tools, conservationists hope to disrupt the supply chains that enable this lucrative criminal activity.