Fernando Tortato uses a signaling device to try to find a jaguar that’s wearing a GPS collar. These collars help researchers monitor the routines, habitats, and population size of jaguars within the Pantanal—providing a glimpse of how the cats live day-to-day in the region.
Sebastian Kennerknecht
Q: Are you optimistic about the future of the Pantanal?
A: As conservationists, we must remain optimistic despite the tremendous challenges we face. Every day, we’re bombarded with negative news about the state of conservation, but we must believe that change is possible. Working alone, the task would be daunting; but working together, we can make a difference. We are grateful to Pew for its trust and support in Panthera’s work.
A prime example of what I mean by “working together”—within our partnership with Pew and coordinating with the local community, cattle ranchers, and local and regional governments—is the upcoming creation of a private protected area (known by its acronym RPPN in Brazilian Portuguese) on Panthera’s ranch, spanning approximately 635 hectares (1,569 acres) of riverine forest. This area is a crucial habitat for jaguars, giant otters, and other species, and its protection through an RPPN ensures perpetual conservation.
Another initiative stemming from our partnership with Pew is the promotion of a management plan for the Encontro das Águas State Park adjacent to Panthera’s ranch. Although this park is the regional center of jaguar tourism, it currently lacks a management plan, public use plan, and adequate measures for ecotourism, surveillance, and wildfire prevention. As the Pantanal becomes drier, wildfires are likely to become more frequent and intense, making it even more crucial that a management plan is put in place.
I believe that, by working together, we can ensure that the Pantanal remains a vital ecosystem in the heart of South America. I dedicate my life to protecting jaguars and the Pantanal, ensuring that future generations can witness its rich wildlife and natural beauty.
Source link : https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/articles/2024/07/02/jaguar-conservation-is-key-to-safeguarding-south-americas-pantanal-wetlands
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Publish date : 2024-07-02 11:00:00
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