Last Monday, July 10th, a crabgrass was rescued by the Environmental Defense Group (GDA), represented by agent Ipson Pavani, from the Municipal Civil Guard (GCM) of São Leopoldo. The rescue took place after a resident, Cinara Miguel, got in touch informing about the presence of the animal in the courtyard of her residence, located in the Feitoria neighborhood.
Immediate protective action
Cinara Miguel initially thought it was a dog, but when he saw the animal leaning against the wall, he realized that it was a different species. Worried about the possibility of injury, she took some photos and sent them to her daughter-in-law, who contacted a biologist friend. It was then confirmed that it was a graxaim. Cinara waited inside the house until the guard team arrived, who rescued the animal.
Appropriate care and referral
After the rescue, the graxaim was accommodated in a safe space in Imperatriz Leopoldina Park, where it remained overnight. The following morning, Tuesday, the 11th, the animal was taken to the Wild Animal Screening Center (Cetas) of the Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA), located in Porto Alegre. Cetas aims to receive wild animals by voluntary delivery, rescue or apprehension in inspections, and carry out their recovery and proper disposal, either through release or referral to authorized fauna enterprises.
Important guidelines for the preservation of fauna
The Municipal Civil Guard highlights the importance of not trying to capture wild animals on your own, as this can put both the individual and the animal at risk. The guidance is to contact immediately by phone 153 and wait for the arrival of the competent authorities. In addition, it is essential not to injure or kill wild animals. According to article 29 of law 9605/98, the pursuit, capture or use of specimens of wild fauna without proper permission is a crime punishable by imprisonment from six months to one year, in addition to a fine. In case of contact with any species, the GCM can be activated by calling 153.
Training for specialized work
The agents of the Environmental Defense Group (GDA) participated in a training held at the Canoas Municipal Zoo. The training was attended by five agents and was coordinated by biologist Gabriela Souza and veterinarian Isadora Favreto, both professionals at the Zoo’s Wild Animal Screening Center (Cetas). This training reinforces the importance of adequate preparation for the rescue and handling of wild animals.
Meet the bush graxaim
The crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) is a species that prefers to inhabit forest edges and more open environments, rather than dense forests. It has a light gray coat, with lighter hairs at the base and a band of black hairs along the back. It is an omnivorous animal, feeding mainly on small vertebrates, invertebrates and fruits. Unfortunately, these animals are often mistakenly considered to be predators of domestic animals, which puts them at risk of poaching. During the day, they usually hide in burrows, crevices and hollows of trees, seeking protection.
The successful rescue of the crab-eating fox in an urban area underscores the importance of protecting and preserving wild fauna. Joint action between the population and the competent authorities is essential to ensure the safety of these animals and promote their reintegration into the natural environment.
