Results
Ban on animal markets in Flanders
By 1 January 2026, the sale of animals at markets will be banned in Flanders. As a result of Faunawatch’s investigations and reports, regular parliamentary questions have been asked about animal welfare at animal markets in Belgium. Minister of Animal Welfare has indicated in these debates that animal markets are indeed out of date. This led to the achievement of our goal: a ban on animal markets!
Wildlife research in Uganda, Indonesia, Morocco and the Netherlands
During our research in Mpanga Central Forest Reserve, Uganda, we discovered the African Gold Cat. This species had never been observed before in Central Uganda, a region 1.5x the size of the Netherlands. The nearest population of the African Gold Cat lives more than 200 kilometers from Mpanga Central Forest Reserve. Such discoveries are crucial for protecting species and habitats. We have also conducted research in Indonesia, Morocco and the Netherlands on amongst others orangutans, Barbary macaques, badgers, and foxes.
Promoting Biodiversity in the south of the Netherlands
Faunawatch planted 1,000 trees to promote biodiversity. This specifically aimed at creating suitable habitat for the crested newt. In another area, 625 plants, bushes, and herbs were planted for biodiversity promotion. In addition, 25 bat boxes, hedgehog houses and bird of prey boxes were installed. There was also a focus on education through 3 information boards.
PROJECTS FOR SOLITARY AND HONEY BEES IN GHANA, UGANDA, AND THE NETHERLANDS
Faunawatch has trained 66 students and 25 teachers in Ghana to become beekeepers through theoretical and practical training. Bee colonies and materials such as hives and protective clothing were also purchased. Every year, new students are trained as beekeepers. The project has also become part of the examination program. Additionally, in collaboration with Hope Alive, 50 families (representing 340 people) have received beekeeper training in Uganda. Faunawatch has also provided 150 hives and handbooks for the participants. Protective clothing and tools are provided in a rotation system. To help solitary bees, Faunawatch has placed a total of 68 bee hotels in various municipalities. We also provided 140 schools in Limburg, the Netherlands with bee hotels in cooperation with the province of Limburg, cnme, and ivn. Sowing campaigns were also organised, amongst others together with schools.
Illegal sport fishing company tackled in Croatia
The blue shark is critically endangered in the Mediterranean. This is mainly due to illegal fishing. The fins of these sharks are often used for shark fin soup.
Faunawatch has gathered evidence against a sport fishing company that illegally caught these blue sharks. Thereafter the police raided the company and also found a blue shark in the freezer
As a result of this action the company has been brought to justice. The ministry has also indicated that it will carry out stricter controls.
BETTER WELFARE FOR ANIMALS IN THE BIO-INDUSTRY
On 23 March 2015, we handed over 12,514 signatures against the breeding of broiler chickens to then-Secretary of State for Infrastructure and Environment Sharon Dijksma. We also published a report on barn fires in the bio-industry in 2019. Like dogs and cats, farm animals are intelligent creatures and consequently their welfare should be safeguarded. Through these projects, we drew attention to the welfare of these animals.
Foundation of Faunawatch
On August 12, 2012, Faunawatch was founded with the aim of making a positive difference for the animals of this world.