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Here They Come to Save the Day - HeroRATs
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Think rats are pests? Think again. Meet the HeroRATs — a team of highly trained Giant African Pouched Rats saving lives around the world. Through the nonprofit APOPO, these intelligent rodents are sniffing out landmines, detecting tuberculosis, and even helping stop wildlife trafficking.
In this episode, we dig into how these whiskered heroes work with astonishing accuracy and speed—clearing minefields in places like Cambodia, Mozambique, and Ukraine, and screening up to 100 TB samples in just 30 minutes (a job that would take a lab technician a week!). They're also being trained to help in disaster zones and uncover illegal smuggling routes.
Smarter than you'd think, lighter than dogs, and far less expensive, HeroRATs are flipping the script on what it means to be a lifesaving partner. And yes—they get monthly vet visits, retirement plans, and plenty of playtime.
This is the story of courage, compassion, and the unexpected allies changing the world one sniff at a time.
APOPO
Interview with: Erin Sackett
Thank you to APOPO for images
Things that make you say "Wow"!
For more episodes and additional information visit the Two Chicks and a Hoe website and our Facebook page.
Big thanks to our Producer, Casey Kennedy.
Chapters
1. Introduction to Hero Rats (00:00:00)
2. Why Rats Over Dogs for Detection (00:08:40)
3. Global Impact and Landmine Clearing (00:18:50)
4. Tuberculosis Detection Breakthroughs (00:27:22)
5. Wildlife Trafficking Prevention Efforts (00:31:42)
6. Search and Rescue Operations (00:36:27)
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