Foz do Iguaçu Macaw Reintroduction Project

(Blue and Gold & Green-winged Macaws)
Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil

The Macaw Reintroduction Project is a project conceived and executed by the Parque das Aves (Park of the Birds), in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil. Parrots International is proud of which Parrots International to be an advisory partner in this carefully designed reintroduction project approved by the Brazilian Government wildlife authorities. Iguassu Falls National Park attracts a large number of visitors every year, who wish to see the incredible waterfalls (the second largest waterfall in the world) in Southern Brazil. This project therefore will provide an opportunity for visitors to experience the reintroduction project, learn about its goals and enjoy its successes.
Located next to the National Park, Parque das Aves (Park of the Birds), was founded in 1994 by Dennis and Dr. Anna Croukamp. Since then it has made continuous efforts in ex-situ conservation by breeding endangered Brazilian birds and also supports in situ conservation projects. Dr. Anna Croukamp is project director with Dr. Yara Barros the lead investigator for the reintroduction efforts.

Macaws have been locally extinct in the Foz do Iguaçu area since 1987. The nearest Macaw population is about 500 kilometers distant.

The goal of the Reintroduction Project is to soft-release groups of Blue and Gold and Green-winged Macaws in the region of Foz do Iguaçu adjacent to the Iguaçu river. The project will include a rigorous pre-release preparation and a careful post-release monitoring, aiming for a slow but consistent establishment of a new self-sustained population.

The project also includes genetic studies of Brazilian populations of both Macaws as well as studies of the disease pathogens present in wild parrots in the release area.