In a significant move for biodiversity conservation, Venezuela's Terepaima National Park is set to expand its boundaries by 14,753 hectares. This initiative aims to protect the critically endangered frontino bear and other iconic species like the jaguar, howler monkeys, and the cunaguaro.
During a recent press conference, Iribarren's mayor, Luis Jonás Reyes, alongside university park rangers, unveiled this ambitious project. The expansion will primarily benefit the Buena Vista and Juárez parishes, which encompass about 90% of the proposed area.
The frontino bear, a symbol of the rainforest, plays a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance. However, due to habitat loss, poaching, and other threats, its population, along with that of the jaguar, is declining globally. The conservation of these species is now a top priority.
Additionally, the park is home to a diverse range of fauna, including the agile cunaguaro, which thrives in the park's lush forests. This medium-sized spotted cat is vital for the ecological equilibrium, preying on various mammals.
Moreover, the park's unique bird species, known for their melodious calls, also highlight the rich biodiversity of Terepaima. Their presence indicates the health of the ecosystem, making their protection essential.
Meanwhile, in Spain, the Corrubedo Natural Park is receiving a €1.3 million investment for conservation projects aimed at protecting its endangered flora and fauna. Recent efforts have successfully reintroduced the embigueira das dunas, a plant endemic to the region, and the European turtle, which is experiencing population growth thanks to conservation initiatives.
These global conservation efforts underscore the urgent need to protect our planet's biodiversity, ensuring the survival of not only iconic species but also the ecosystems they inhabit.