The remarkable role of giant marsupials in The Gambia: Heroes of mine detection
When it comes to dealing with rats, traditional solutions such as traps and rodent baits are popular. However, there is one remarkable type of rodent that has been useful beyond all expectations and saves thousands of lives every year. What is the story behind these extraordinary creatures?
Meet the Giant Gambian Kangaroo, a rodent that can weigh between 2 and 4 kg (about the size of a house cat) and measure around 25 cm long. These impressive mice are making a significant impact in the field of mine detection.
Landmines, a remnant of past and present conflicts, continue to pose a serious threat in many parts of the world, including Afghanistan, the Middle East and Egypt. With hundreds of millions of unexploded landmines scattered throughout these areas, they pose enormous dangers to the local population. The task of clearing these mines is very difficult and although technology has advanced, it cannot always guarantee absolute safety. This is where the giant Gambian marsupials come into play.
These mice, despite their large size, are very suitable for detecting landmines. Their weight – no more than 5 kg – means that if you accidentally step on a mine, it is unlikely to explode. Additionally, their calm demeanor and stable temperament make them ideal for work, unaffected by outside disturbances.
The mouse is rewarded after completing a great task.
Each rat undergoes rigorous training before joining the demining effort. During training, they were rewarded with small portions of food and ear rubs whenever they successfully identified the target. This positive reinforcement encourages the animals to continue their important work. The high detection rate of these “mine rats” is close to 100%, making them invaluable in demining missions.
Gambian giant kangaroos are not only special for their size but also for the important role they play in making the world safer. Their dedication and effectiveness in detecting landmines is testament to the incredible contributions these animals make to human safety.
