The Arfak Ringtail Pseudochirulus schlegeli is a wide-eyed and bushy tailed #possum living in the remote Arfak Mountains and cloud forests of #WestPapua. Although little is known of these tree-dwelling #marsupials, much can be gleaned from related #mammals in Australasia. These cryptic and fluffy arboreal beauties are found in the mossy, cloud-wrapped forests of the Vogelkop Peninsula’s Arfak Mountains. Listed as #Vulnerable, the species faces mounting pressure from #deforestation for #palmoil and #timber and #hunting by local communities. With fewer than five known locations and less than 20,000 km² of suitable habitat, this highland #possum could disappear quietly without urgent action. Protect #indigenous forests, say no to palm oil, and stand up against wildlife exploitation #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife #Vegan
Author Archives: Palm Oil Detectives
Bear Cuscus Ailurops ursinus
The Bear Cuscus also known as the Sulawesi bear cuscus is an unusual and charming marsupial, named for their thick, dark, bear-like fur. Found only on the island of Sulawesi and nearby islands, this slow-moving, arboreal creature spends much of their day resting in the tropical rainforests of Indonesia. The Sulawesi bear cuscus uses their elongated claws and prehensile tail to navigate the canopy, feeding on a diet of leaves, flowers, and unripe fruit. Sadly, palm oil deforestation and hunting pose serious threats to this species, resulting in a significant decline in their population. Protecting the Sulawesi bear cuscus is essential to preserving the biodiversity of Indonesia’s rainforests. Say no to palm oil and industrial agriculture every time you shop, and use the hashtags #BoycottPalmOil and #Boycott4Wildlife on social media to vocally oppose the greenwashing of “sustainable” palm oil.
Vogelkop Tree Kangaroo Dendrolagus ursinus
Protect stunning marsupials Vogelkop Tree Kangaroo Dendrolagus ursinus and boycott palm oil! They live in the Vogelkop and Fakfak Peninsulas of West Papua.
Talaud Bear Cuscus Ailurops melanotis
High in the canopies of #Indonesia’s remote northern islands of Salibabu, Nusa, Bukide, and Sangihe, the Talaud Bear #Cuscus Ailurops melanotis moves at a pace so slow they barely disturbs the leaves. With their round, woolly bodies, sleepy expressions, and a temperament as relaxed as a sloth, these tree-dwelling marsupials have long been a mystery to science. Relentless #hunting for #bushmeat along with #palmoil and #timber #deforestation have rendered these gentle marsupials #criticallyendangered and they are nearing #extinction. Conservationists are working alongside local communities to change perceptions of the species, replacing hunting traditions with protection efforts. You can take action every time you shop and shop #PalmOilFree #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife.
Dingiso Dendrolagus mbaiso
Known affectionately as the ‘Panda tree kangaroo’ for their black and white faces, dingisos are one of the rarest and most charismatic species of tree kangaroos, living only in the remote cloud forests of the Sudirman Range in Indonesian-occupied #WestPapua. While revered by the Moni people who consider them sacred and taboo to hunt, #Dingiso populations have still plummeted by over 50% due to #hunting, road construction, habitat clearing, and the expansion of industrial agriculture particularly #palmoil #deforestation. #Climatechange is now driving further habitat loss at high altitudes. Help these mysterious and gentle tree kangaroos every time you shop, use your wallet as a weapon and #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife
Blue-eyed Spotted Cuscus Spilocuscus wilsoni
Critically Endangered Blue-eyed Spotted Cuscus lives in lowland rainforests of West Papua. Palm oil deforestation is a serious threat. Boycott palm oil!
Golden-mantled Tree Kangaroo Dendrolagus pulcherrimus
Critically Endangered Golden-mantled Tree Kangaroos are found in Papua New Guinea’s mountains. They move with grace in a vanishing world. Boycott palm oil!
Tenkile Dendrolagus scottae
The #Tenkile, or Scott’s Tree #Kangaroo Dendrolagus scottae, is one of the most endangered #marsupials in the world, found only in the Torricelli Mountains and Bewani Range of #PapuaNewGuinea. These elusive tree kangaroos are unlike others of the #Dendrolagus genus as they spend a lot more time on the ground. These #treekangaroos were once widespread, but decades of hunting for food and deforestation for subsistence farming have driven them to the brink of extinction and they are now critically endangered. By the early 2000s, their population had plummeted to an estimated 100 individuals. However, the Tenkile Conservation Alliance (TCA) has led a community-driven conservation effort that has helped stabilise and even increase their numbers. Despite these successes, #timber and #palmoil expansion stills pose a major threat to this species’ survival. Resist and fight for their survival each time you shop—#BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife.
Telefomin Cuscus Phalanger matanim
Help save the Telefomin Cuscus! These critically endangered marsupials are found only in PNG’s Nong River Valley and face an uncertain future from palm oil!
Thomas’s Big-eared Bat Pharotis imogene
Thomas’s Big-eared #Bat Pharotis imogene, also known as the #NewGuinea Big-eared Bat, is one of the world’s rarest and most elusive #mammals- they are critically endangered by #PapuaNewGuinea. Thought to be #extinct for over a century, they were rediscovered in 2012 in Central Province, Papua New Guinea, in an area heavily impacted by palm oil deforestation, firewood collection, and land clearing for timber, mines and palm oil. Despite their rediscovery, habitat destruction due to palm oil expansion, logging, mining and human encroachment which continues to threaten their survival. Without urgent intervention, they may disappear again—this time, permanently. Help them every time you shop and #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife
Black Dorcopsis Dorcopsis atrata
Black Dorcopsis Dorcopsis atrata IUCN Red List Status: Critically Endangered Location: The Black Dorcopsis, also known as the Black Forest Wallaby, is found only on Goodenough Island in the D’Entrecasteaux Archipelago, Papua New Guinea. They inhabit lowland and montane forests, preferring dense vegetation at elevations between 300 and 1,500 metres. The Black Dorcopsis is aContinue reading “Black Dorcopsis Dorcopsis atrata”
Black-spotted Cuscus Spilocuscus rufoniger
The black-spotted cuscus Spilocuscus rufoniger is one of the most striking and rare marsupials in the world. Known for their soft fur with irregular black spots on a reddish or cream background, they exemplify the biodiversity of West Papua and Papua New Guinea’s rainforests. Endemic to the island, they are incredibly elusive, primarily inhabiting dense forests.
Sadly, this arboreal species is on the brink of extinction, primarily due to habitat loss from logging and palm oil plantations. Additionally, they are hunted for bushmeat and their striking pelts, which are valued in local traditions. With their population in severe decline, urgent action is needed to save this remarkable species from disappearing. Fight for their survival and #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife.
Papua New Guinea & West Papua: Species Endangered by Palm Oil Deforestation
As the rainforest habitats are destroyed in Indonesia, Indonesian and Chinese oil palm processing companies are switching focus towards Papua New Guinea, Africa and South America to keep up with demand for palm oil.
Bornean Rainbow Toad Ansonia latidisca
The Bornean Rainbow Toad, also known as the Sambas Stream Toad, is a vibrantly coloured amphibian native to the rainforests of Borneo. This elusive species was rediscovered in 2011 after being unseen since 1924. Endemic to the montane rainforests, these toads are nocturnal and arboreal, with long, spindly limbs and a bright, variegated dorsal skin. Their striking appearance and nocturnal habits make them a unique sight in their natural habitat. The primary threats to their survival include habitat loss due to deforestation for agriculture, particularly palm oil plantations. Protecting their habitat is crucial for their survival. Join the cause to #Boycottpalmoil and #Boycott4Wildlife.
Sabah Grizzled Langur Presbytis sabana
Save Sabah Grizzled Langurs AKA Crested Grizzled Langurs from palm oil! They’re endangered and urgent action is needed to prevent their extinction – boycott!
Borneo Bay Cat Catopuma badia
The Borneo Bay Cat, also known as the Bay Cat, is a small wildcat species endemic to the island of Borneo. Renowned for their elusive nature, they inhabit dense tropical forests and are among the least studied wild cats globally. Their rarity and the rapid deforestation of Borneo’s rainforests have raised significant conservation concerns. To protect the Borneo Bay Cat use your wallet as a weapon to fight for their survival each time you shop. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife
Proboscis Monkey Nasalis larvatus
Proboscis Monkeys are known for their large noses and pot bellies. These arboreal monkeys of Borneo are great swimmers, help them when you boycott palm oil
Silvery Pigeon Columba argentina
Help save the Silvery Pigeon. One of Southeast Asia’s most enigmatic birds, they are critically endangered, with an estimated population of fewer than 50.
Asian Giant Tortoise Manouria emys
Asia’s largest tortoise is rapidly declining. The Asian Giant Tortoise is threatened by palm oil deforestation and illegal hunting. Take action for them!
Murud Black Slender Toad Ansonia vidua
The Murud Black Slender Toad is an enigmatic amphibian, perfectly camouflaged among the rocks and vegetation of Borneo’s high-altitude forests. Known only from the remote Mount Murud region, their sleek black body and delicate frame make them one of the most unique species of their kind. These toads are specialists, thriving near fast-flowing streams where they feed and reproduce.
Despite their ecological significance, they face mounting pressures from habitat destruction. Logging, agricultural expansion, and rising temperatures are pushing them closer to extinction. Fight to save them by boycotting palm oil and supporting indigenous-led conservation. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife.
Javan Rhinoceros Rhinoceros sondaicus
The Javan rhinoceros, also called the Sunda rhinoceros, is a critically endangered species and one of the world’s rarest large mammals. There are only a few dozen left alive in Ujung Kulon National Park in Java, Indonesia. Javan rhinos once lived throughout northeast India and Southeast Asia. Vietnam’s last Javan rhino was poached in 2010. they now survive only in Ujung Kulon National Park on the island of Java, with fewer than 75 individuals remaining.
Their decline has been driven by palm oil deforestation, poaching for their horns, and competition with invasive plant species like the Arenga palm, which reduces food availability. Saving the Javan rhinoceros is critical to preserving the biodiversity of their rainforest home. Fight for their survival by boycotting products linked to deforestation. Use your wallet as a weapon. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife
Painted Terrapin Batagur borneoensis
The painted terrapin, or painted river terrapin (Batagur borneoensis), is one of the most beautiful and critically endangered freshwater turtles in the world. Known for the vibrant markings displayed by males during breeding seasons, these terrapins are an integral part of Southeast Asia’s mangrove and river ecosystems.
However, their populations are rapidly declining due to habitat destruction, including deforestation for palm oil plantations, sand mining, and coastal development. With fewer than 1,000 mature individuals left in the wild, immediate action is critical to ensure their survival. Protect these majestic reptiles—boycott palm oil and support conservation efforts. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife
Boo-Liat’s Kukri Snake Oligodon booliati
Boo-Liat’s Kukri Snake is a jewel of the lowland forests of Peninsular Malaysia, with their vibrant red colouration and bold black saddle-like markings. Named to honour the renowned zoologist Tan Sri Dr. Lim Boo Liat, this critically endangered snake highlights the incredible biodiversity of the region.
However, their survival is in jeopardy. Forests are rapidly vanishing due to deforestation for palm oil and logging, while increasing tourism brings additional pressures to their fragile habitat. Protecting these snakes requires safeguarding their home. Act now: #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife.
Malaysian Giant Turtle Orlitia borneensis
The Malaysian giant turtle, or Bornean river turtle, is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater turtle. These gentle aquatic giants are critically important for maintaining the balance of their fragile river ecosystems. Their significant size and unique adaptations make them a marvel of evolution, yet they are on the brink of extinction.
Habitat loss driven by palm oil plantations, deforestation, and illegal trade has caused their population to plummet. Protect these critically endangered turtles by using your wallet as a weapon. Boycott palm oil and fight for their survival. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife
Large-spotted Civet Viverra megaspila
The Large-spotted Civet is an elusive and mysterious nocturnal carnivore of Southeast Asia. They are recognised for their large black spots on a greyish-buff coat and play an essential role in the health of their ecosystems. Preferring lowland forests and wetlands, they are elusive and rarely sighted. Unfortunately, habitat destruction for palm oil, hunting, and the illegal wildlife trade have contributed to their decline, with the species now classified as Endangered. Their predicted population decline is more than 50% over three generations. To protect the Large-spotted Civet, boycott products linked to deforestation and palm oil. Use your wallet as a weapon to fight for their survival. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife
Sun Bear Helarctos malayanus
Sun bears are playful and energetic small bear species from South East Asia who are increasingly becoming marginalised by deforestation and trade for their body parts.
With their glistening golden crescent chest markings, these bears embody uniqueness and bold beauty. Despite their tenacity palm oil and timber deforestation is an unmatched threat to their survival. They are now vulnerable from this and other threats and have lost 50-80% of their range. Help to protect them and #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife in the supermarket!
Yellow-handed Mitered Langur Presbytis melalophos
Yellow-handed Mitered Langur Presbytis melalophos Endangered The vividly colourful and cheeky yellow-handed mitered langur Presbytis melalophos are native to Sumatra, Indonesia. They are severely threatened by deforestation and logging due to the palm oil, mining and timber industries. Agricultural expansion for palm oil plantations has caused massive habitat loss and fragmentation throughout their range, whileContinue reading “Yellow-handed Mitered Langur Presbytis melalophos”
Thomas’s Langur Presbytis thomasi
Thomas’s Langur, also known as the North Sumatran Leaf #Monkey is famous for their bold facial stripes giving them a handsome profile. These monkeys are endemic to the lush forests of northern Sumatra, Indonesia. Listed as Vulnerable by the Red List, this striking species is facing serious population declines due to habitat loss, primarily driven by illegal logging and oil palm deforestation. Though not as globally known as some of its neighbours, such as the Sumatran Orangutan, Thomas’s Langur plays an equally vital role in forest regeneration and seed dispersal. You can help protect them by using your consumer power: always choose palm oil-free products.#BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife #Vegan
Hairy-nosed Otter Lutra sumatrana
The Hairy-nosed Otter is one of the world’s rarest and least understood otter species, native to Southeast Asia. Distinguished by the unique fur covering its rhinarium (nose), this elusive mammal inhabits freshwater and coastal ecosystems, including mangroves and peat swamp forests. Now extinct in India and Myanmar, their numbers are dropping in other countries. They are severely under threat from habitat destruction for palm oil and illegal hunting. Hairy-nosed Otter have no known conservation projects in place to protect them. We urge you to boycott products linked to deforestation like palm oil and meat. Use your wallet as a weapon to fight for their survival each time you shop #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife!
Sumatran Ground-cuckoo Carpococcyx viridis
The Sumatran Ground Cuckoo, a reclusive bird endemic to Sumatra’s dense forests who captivate with their distinctive iridescent plumage. They lived peacefully in the rainforest until its decimation over the past several decades for palm oil took its toll on populations – they are now critically endangered. Fewer than 250 mature individuals remain, and their population is declining. Immediate conservation efforts are critical. These stunning birds symbolise the fragile and rich biodiversity of Sumatra’s montane rainforests. Take action and use your wallet as a weapon every time you shop, #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife
Palm Oil Detectives 