A picture of cruelty

RIHANNA recently posted pictures on the Instagram photo- sharing website of her visit to Thailand, including a picture of her with a cute baby loris on her shoulder.

The use of wild animals as photo props is i l l egal i n Thailand. It’s contributing to the decline of several already endangered species and is responsible for acts of animal cruelty.

Every year, millions of tourists come to Phuket and Patong, many of whom are given the opportunity to have their photo taken with wildlife, such as the slow loris Rihanna encountered on Bangla Road.

The invitation to handle one of these animals is very appealing. Their large eyes and fluffy appearance make them irresistible — but few visitors realise the cost of their souvenir photo.

I’m working at an animal rescue centre that cares for more than 50 primates on Phuket. Most were rescued from use in the tourist trade and many suffer from physical and psychological disorders as a result of their prior treatment; photo-prop animals are often physically abused, mutilated and drugged to ensure they are safe for tourists to handle.

Much of the work we do involves educating tourists about photo prop animals and t he cruelty t hey commonly endure. Few people are aware that the slow loris is venomous — a single bite can cause serious infection and even death. Because of this, it is common practice in the photograph and pet trade to cut or pull their canine teeth to prevent them from biting.

The name slow loris comes from their iconic behaviour of moving very slowly. Many people find this behaviour endearing but don’t release it is a response to fear and an indication that the animal is stressed.

Most animals used in the photo trade are very young because they are typically docile and easier to handle. Although they are nocturnal, many are used during the day and will be drugged or physically shaken every few minutes to prevent them from going to sleep.

Sadly, law enforcement efforts have had little impact on the photo-prop trade here on Phuket because there is a substantial amount of corruption and organised crime in the area. With so many tourists coming to Phuket every year, the trade is certain to continue for as long as visitors are happy t o pay f or photos with animals.

HELEN THOMPSON, Gibbon Rehabilitation Project,

Phuket, Thailand.