Summary
In Cambodia, specially trained African giant pouched rats help detect landmines by using their strong sense of smell. These rats work alongside humans to locate explosive materials in areas heavily affected by past conflicts.
Key Facts
- African giant pouched rats are used in Cambodia to find landmines.
- These rats can grow up to 45 centimeters long and weigh up to 1.5 kilograms.
- They alert handlers when they detect TNT, a common explosive in mines.
- The rats are trained and deployed by APOPO, an organization that works worldwide.
- Cambodia has a significant landmine problem, with many areas still uncleared from past conflicts.
- Since 1992, efforts have removed over 1.1 million mines and 2.9 million explosive remnants.
- Trainers and rats develop close working relationships, with handlers viewing them as family.
