The Wildlife Rescue Programme of the Nam Theun 2 Hydropower Project (Lao PDR)

Abstract

During inundation of the Nam Theun 2 Hydropower Project a wildlife rescue programme was conducted to respond to animal rescue needs. Based on a series of field surveys conducted in 2007, priority species were identified for rescue and translocation. Once filling of the Nam Theun 2 Reservoir commenced and islands started to form, animals trapped on these islands were captured by various means and translocated to the Nakai - Nam Theun National Protected Area managed by the NT2 Watershed Management and Protection Authority (WMPA) on the north shore of the reservoir. Various data was collected on these animals and a number of these animals were radiotracked after translocation to assess their survival. Such rescue efforts are often considered a mere act of animal welfare or a public relation exercise. The experience of the Nam Theun 2 wildlife rescue programme shows however that a carefully conducted wildlife rescue programme can provide not only invaluable scientific and ecological insights but significantly contribute to conservation of the biodiversity in the area.