AndeanBear.org researching spectacled bears to save them from extinction
Title
Andean Bear Conservation Project - Help us save the Andean bears before they disappear forever.
Description
The Andean Bear Conservation Project is a project of the Andean Bear Foundation and is based in Ecuador. Our goal is to save the endangered Andean Bear (Tremarctos ornatus) from extinction through in-field scientific studies and through the rehabilitation and release of captive bears.
We monitor both wild and rehabilitated Andean (spectacled) bears, by direct observation and through the use of radio tracking equipment. Our aim is to improve human understanding of these gentle creatures by gathering data on their diet, behaviours and social interaction. We will then be able to produce a land management plan to reduce conflict between the farmers and the bears (who eat their maize).
The Andean Bear Foundation recently started the construction of a sanctuary for Andean bears, the Iznachi Bear Sanctuary. The sanctuary will serve as a home for bears unsuitable for release, and a space to rehabilitate those rescued cubs who can be returned to the wild. The sanctuary is located on 5 hectares of forested hillside near Baeza in Napo Province, a beautiful area with a population of wild Andean bears. Fundraising continues for this project and progress depends on receiving sufficient donations to purchase the materials needed.
We offer opportunities for volunteers to help with tracking the bears here in the beautiful mountain scenery of Ecuador. This is a great opportunity for conservation biology or ecology students to gain valuable field data collection experience and many have used their time with the Andean Bear Project as an internship to gain research experience. As part of our efforts to educate and involve local communities, there are also opportunities for volunteer teachers in local schools.
Languages
English
Address
c/o Rebecca Hamilton, 5393 N. Paseo de la Terraza, Tucson, AZ 85750, USA
Contact
Additional Information
The Andean Bear Conservation Project is an internationally respected scientific research programme and appeared in a BBC documentary in the UK. The project is led by Ecuadorian biologist Armando Castellanos.
Related Domains
External Links
- Rehabilitation and Release of Spectacled Bears in Ecuador
- Alexa: AndeanBear.org
- WHOIS for AndeanBear.org
- Spectacled Bear Photo Gallery
- Conservation Biology Internships in Ecuador
