From left to right: Hernando García, General Director of the Humboldt Institute; Maria Isabel Hernández Parra, President of the ANUC Board of Directors; Sara Inés Lara, Executive Director of ProAves; Martha Rosero, Delegate of Conservation International; Arnold Rincón, General Director of CODECHOCÓ.
Historic Conservation Victory: Establishing Las Tángaras Regional Nature Park
El Carmen de Atrato, Colombia – In a historic conservation victory, Women for Conservation’s partner, ProAves, together with CODECHOCÓ, has proudly announced the creation of the first-ever Regional Natural Park in the Las Tángaras Reserve, located in the Chocó region. This landmark decision, approved by the Environmental Corporation’s Board of Directors in January 2024, signifies a major step forward in preserving the incredible biodiversity of this unique ecosystem.
The newly established Regional Park spans 2,316 hectares (9 square miles), encompassing 97.6% of dense forests and secondary vegetation. In a historic conservation victory, this park is now recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, offering a sanctuary for an impressive array of South America’s endemic species.
“This is a crucial biodiversity hotspot in Colombia due to its high levels of bird endemism. We are incredibly proud that all the conservation efforts led by Fundación ProAves over the past 15 years have culminated in the creation of this Regional Park, ensuring that these efforts are protected in perpetuity”
Sara Inés Lara, Founder of Women for Conservation and Executive Director of ProAves
Representatives from Women for Conservation, Fundación ProAves, Conservación International, and CODECHOCÓ celebrating Las Tángaras Regional Nature Park’s inauguration.
Arnold Alexander Rincón López, General Director of CODECHOCÓ, emphasized that the creation of the Las Tángaras Regional Natural Park is the result of a joint effort with ProAves and Conservation International (CI). He expressed: “Thanks to this collaboration, we are safeguarding the vital water resources and strategic ecosystems of the Western Cordillera of the Chocó Biogeographic region, including the headwaters of the Atrato River.”
Fabio Arjona, Vice President of Conservation International Colombia, expressed his enthusiasm for this historic achievement: “Today, we celebrate a milestone in our commitment to biodiversity conservation. This park, which combines a private reserve of ProAves with a protected area designated by CODECHOCÓ, becomes a vital sanctuary for our endemic birds. Together, we are building a legacy of hope and protection for future generations.”
A Win for Wildlife
At the heart of this achievement lies ProAves and Women for Conservation’s unwavering partnership to save endangered wildlife. By strengthening community conservation programs around our partner ProAves nature reserves, we are providing a safe haven for vulnerable species. This accomplishment marks a significant step toward ensuring their long-term survival and preserving their precious habitats.
This park is not only a haven for wildlife but also plays a crucial role in protecting endangered species such as the black-and-chestnut eagle (Spizaetus isidori) and the Nose-horned Toad (Rhinella lindae). The park also safeguards vulnerable species like the endemic and Endangered Gold-ringed tanager (Bangsia aureocincta), the endemic and Vulnerable Black-and-gold tanager (Bangsia melanochlamys), and the Vulnerable Spectacled Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus). Additionally, the park will continue to safeguard endemic and restricted-distribution species, such as the endemic and Vulnerable Red-bellied grackle (Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster) and the Vulnerable Boquete rocket frog (Silverstoneia nubicola).
Family Planning for Rural Communities
This victory is not only a success for wildlife but also for the rural communities in the area. Through Women for Conservation’s community programs, we support women, men, and children in engaging with conservation work and gender empowerment.
With our focus on women’s empowerment, nearly 200 people from the most remote communities bordering Las Tangaras Reserve have benefited from our accessible family planning programs. We have provided 63 vasectomies, 58 implants, and 76 tubectomies to community members living around Las Tangaras. Women for Conservation and ProAves have covered all costs associated with these medical procedures, including transportation, meals, and lodging.
Supporting Livelihoods of Indigenous Women of the Chocó
Women for Conservation is dedicated to supporting the livelihoods of Indigenous women of the Chocó region by purchasing handmade beads and ancestral crafts and providing the necessary materials for their creation. This approach not only preserves and celebrates their traditional techniques but also provides a sustainable source of income. By offering financial and material support, we promote the economic independence of women in nearby communities, helping them strengthen their financial livelihoods while keeping cultural traditions alive.
The creation of Las Tángaras Regional Park is not just a significant advancement for conservation in Chocó but also opens new opportunities for ecotourism, scientific research, and the empowerment of women in the region. Together, we are not only protecting the planet but also ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for its inhabitants.
