
While in Siem Reap, we visited APOPO’s incredible bomb disposal site and yes, we saw rats saving lives. Giant African pouched rats, also known as HeroRATs, are trained to detect landmines by sniffing out the explosive chemical compounds buried underground. They’re so light, they don’t trigger the mines, which means they can work quickly and safely.
We watched in awe as one of the rats swept a section of field, pausing to signal when it found something dangerous below. It was like watching a living metal detector, but way more efficient. After the demonstration, we even got to hold one of the HeroRATs it was calm, soft, and honestly kind of adorable.
Here’s what blew our minds even more:
🧨 Rats trained by APOPO have helped locate over 150,000 landmines and unexploded bombs. 🕐 One rat can search a tennis court-sized area in just 30 minutes — something that would take a human up to four days. 🌍 They’re used in Cambodia, Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Laos, making post-war land usable again.
🐀 Meet the Greatest of All Time: Magawa
The most famous HeroRAT of all was Magawa, who worked right here in Cambodia. He personally found 71 landmines and 38 UXOs, clearing 141,000 square metres of land. In 2020, he was awarded the PDSA Gold Medal, the highest honour for animal bravery — the first rat ever to receive it. He passed away in retirement in 2022, but his impact lives on.
After seeing the rats in action, we headed back to the pool grateful, a little humbled, and full of admiration for the tiny heroes changing lives one sniff at a time.
❓ FAQ: Bomb-Sniffing Rats in Cambodia
What are HeroRATs?
HeroRATs are specially trained giant African pouched rats that detect landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) by sniffing out explosive chemicals like TNT. They’re smart, lightweight, and incredibly accurate.
Why use rats instead of metal detectors?
Rats can search faster and more accurately. While a metal detector picks up every bit of metal (including bottle caps), rats ignore scrap and only react to explosives. They also work much faster and don’t set off the mines due to their low weight.
Are the rats in any danger?
No rats are too light to trigger the mines they’re detecting. They are trained using positive reinforcement (treats!) and are never harmed during their work.
Where are these rats used?
They’re active in Cambodia, Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Laos countries heavily affected by landmines from past wars.
How many landmines are left in Cambodia?
Estimates suggest there are still 4–6 million landmines and UXOs scattered across the country, especially in rural areas. Clearance is ongoing, but it’s a massive job.
Can tourists visit the rat training centre?
Yes! APOPO has a visitor centre just outside Siem Reap, Cambodia. You can watch a live demonstration, learn about their work, and even hold a HeroRAT yourself. Great for families and travellers interested in meaningful experiences.