Water for jaguars and farmers in Gaira, Colombia

During the past quarter, the Natural Reserve has witnessed remarkable progress in our ongoing commitment to restoring the tropical dry forest, thanks to the dedication and support of our collaborators, volunteers, and, of course, our invaluable donors. In this period, we are pleased to report that we have reached a significant milestone by successfully producing 2,000 new trees, bringing the total population in our nursery to 4,000 specimens of endangered species.

As a result of our diligent forest conservation efforts, the reserve is witnessing a flourishing ecosystem, welcoming an increasing array of wildlife. Recently, three ornithologists conducted a comprehensive survey over ten days, identifying an impressive 64 species within our protected grounds. Additionally, three biologists, experts in mapping howler monkeys across Central and South America, visited the reserve. Their findings revealed the presence of two families of howling monkeys, highlighting the vital role our conservation practices play in fostering diverse habitats for these remarkable creatures.

Thoroughly exploring territories in search of new seeds, we have observed a concerning reality that underscores the urgency of our work. Despite the apparent lushness of some forests, we have noticed the constant absence of certain essential species. The same species we are multiplying in our nursery are becoming increasingly challenging to find in these natural habitats. Additionally, as we walk through these forests, we have noted that the present trees are surprisingly young compared to the overall age of the forest. This phenomenon suggests that selective logging of fine wood species not only threatens biodiversity but also hinders generational turnover, jeopardizing the long-term vitality of these trees.

However, we face an additional challenge in planning our upcoming plantings, as the region is affected by the meteorological phenomenon "El Niño." This shift in rainfall patterns threatens to complicate our operations scheduled for May. We have implemented precautionary measures and continuous monitoring to adjust our schedule in real-time according to changing weather conditions, ensuring effective adaptation to circumstances.

In conclusion, while we celebrate our achievements, we recognize the critical need to sustain and expand our efforts to preserve the biological richness of the region. We sincerely appreciate the ongoing support of our donors, whose contribution is essential to carrying out this mission. With determination and long-term vision, we remain committed to safeguarding and regenerating the valuable tropical dry forest in the Colombian Caribbean.