Fold for the Future: Protecting Laos’ Wildlife

Cranes are symbols of peace and hope across Asia. Wetlands in Laos support many bird species, but habitat loss and hunting threaten their survival. 

Protecting wetlands protects countless birds and the people who depend on them.

Laos is home to the Annamite striped rabbit, one of the rarest mammals on Earth. Critically Endangered, it was only discovered in 1999 and is threatened by snaring for the illegal wildlife trade.

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Asiatic black bears and sun bears live in Laos but are heavily threatened by poaching for bile and body parts. Many bears are rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, but countless others still need protection.

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Laos has an incredible diversity of frogs, many found nowhere else in the world. Frogs are sensitive to pollution and habitat loss, making them important indicators of ecosystem health.

Scorpions play an important role in controlling insect populations. Although often feared, they are a vital part of Laos’ ecosystems and are increasingly affected by habitat destruction.

Laos is a biodiversity hotspot for birds, including hornbills, pittas, and river birds. Birds help disperse seeds and keep forests healthy, but many species are declining due to deforestation and hunting.

Bats are essential pollinators and insect controllers in Laos. Despite their importance, bats are often misunderstood and persecuted, putting ecosystems and agriculture at risk.

Cobras are apex predators that help control rodent populations. In Laos, snakes are often killed out of fear or captured for trade, disrupting natural balance.

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Dragonflies depend on clean water and healthy wetlands. Their presence is a sign of a healthy environment, making them important indicators of ecosystem quality in Laos.

Rivers in Laos, especially the Mekong, support one of the world’s most diverse freshwater fish populations. Overfishing and dam development threaten food security and biodiversity.

Freshwater crabs are vital to river and wetland ecosystems. Pollution and habitat loss put these small but important creatures at risk, affecting the entire food chain.