A joint rewilding effort has successfully translocated 15 Darwin’s rheas from Argentina to Chile to enhance the species’ population and regenerate grassland ecosystems. Conducted by Rewilding Argentina and Rewilding Chile, this initiative is a pioneering first step in international wildlife conservation and cooperation, essential for addressing extinction risks. The birds underwent veterinary checks and will be acclimated before release into the wild.
In an unprecedented rewilding project, 15 Darwin’s rheas (Rhea pennata) are being translocated from Argentina to Chile, marking the first international effort to relocate a wild population of these birds in South America’s Southern Cone region. Collaborating organizations, including Rewilding Argentina and Rewilding Chile, facilitated the move from Patagonia Park in Argentina to Patagonia National Park in Chile, a distance of approximately 55 miles (90 km).
Darwin’s rheas, also known as ñandús in Chile and choiques in Argentina, are native to the expansive Patagonian Steppe and play a crucial role in maintaining healthy grasslands by dispersing seeds. Standing up to 1.10 meters tall and weighing as much as 20 kg, these flightless birds are integral to their ecosystem. Unfortunately, the Aysén region of southern Chile has experienced significant habitat degradation due to overgrazing and hunting, posing a direct threat to the rheas through the destruction of their nests.
The relocation initiative aims to promote the regenerative growth of grasslands, encouraging the recovery of the Darwin’s rhea population through their natural seed dispersal behaviors. Additionally, this translocation allows researchers to observe the species’ behaviors and spatial ecology by tracking the birds’ movements via GPS technology. The initiative signifies a crucial step in reducing extinction threats and revitalizing habitats through international cooperation, a rarity in rewilding projects.
To address concerns regarding avian flu, the selected birds underwent thorough veterinary examinations and quarantine procedures in Argentina and after their arrival in Chile. They will initially be kept in holding pens to acclimatize before being released into the wild. Kris Tompkins, President of Tompkins Conservation, remarked on the significance of this endeavor, emphasizing the need for international collaboration to tackle the mass extinction crisis. He expressed pride in the organizations’ efforts, highlighting the belief that such actions broaden the potential for ecological restoration without respect to borders.
The translocation of 15 Darwin’s rheas from Argentina to Chile marks a significant achievement in international rewilding projects. This initiative is designed to aid both the species’ recovery and the regeneration of vital ecosystems within their native habitats. Through thorough veterinary and quarantine procedures, the health of the birds is being prioritized. Such collaborative efforts exemplify the importance of cross-border cooperation to address ecological challenges and combat species extinction.
Original Source: www.discoverwildlife.com
