The world has lost a leading name in mine detection and destruction. But this name is not a person as you might think; an opossum. . . The rat named Magawa, eight years old, peacefully closed his eyes. 8 years is not a bad time for an African giant opossum (Cricetomys ansorgei).
Detecting more than 100 landmines and other explosives during his career, Magawa was known for his achievements in 2020 earning him the PDSA Gold Medal, the highest award for heroism an animal can receive.
While mice are notorious in many parts of the world, Magawa’s home, APOPO, has long celebrated the achievements of this clever rodent. Established to train scent-sensing mice and dogs nicknamed “HeroRATs” and “HeroDOGs”, APOPO’s main goal is to eliminate landmines in Cambodia.
After a brilliant career, Magawa ended his career with a retirement party in 2021.
APOPO said in a statement: “His contributions have allowed communities in Cambodia to live, work and children to play. Every discovery he has made has reduced the risk of injury or death to the people of Cambodia. Magawa has certainly left a lasting legacy in the lives he saved as a mine detection rat in Cambodia.” . “
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