The primary tropical forests of Abra Patricia in the Andes of Peru have been identified as a priority for protection by the Alliance for Zero Extinction, as they represent the only remaining site in the world for the critically endangered Long-whiskered Owlet, Ochre-fronted Antpitta, and yellow-tailed woolly monkey. The area has historically been at risk from deforestation for agriculture and cattle ranching, timber extraction, and poaching of wildlife and orchids.
ABC Conservation Framework
Efforts to save this species comes under Safeguarding the Rarest within ABC's Conservation Framework
Other species found at Abra Patricia include the Ochre-fronted Antpitta, Royal Sunangel, Lulu’s Tody-tyrant, and spectacled bear. A total of 29 neotropical migrant species have been found in Abra Patricia. Thirteen of these are of conservation concern, including the Broadwinged Hawk, Swainson’s Hawk, Swainson's Thrush, and Alder Flycatcher.
YouTube - Swallow-tailed Nightjar by ABC
Solutions
Protect key habitat for the Ochre-fronted Antpitta and the Long-whiskered Owlet, and create financial mechanisms to sustain the reserve.
ABC Results
ABC and our partner Asociación Ecosistemas Andinos (ECOAN) founded the Abra Patricia – Alto Nieva Private Conservation Area in 2005. It is currently 7,660 acres. In early 2010, the Peruvian government approved ECOAN’s management of the neighboring 16,557 acre Abra Patricia - Alto Nieva Conservation Concession. The “Abra Patricia Reserve” now spans 24,217 acres.
During 2008-2012, ABC has supported ECOAN efforts to conduct a massive reforestation and habitat restoration campaign resulting in 50,000 native trees planted within the Abra Patricia Reserve, and more than 700,000 additional trees, shrubs, and coffee bushes planted on private lands in surrounding communities in mixed forests, shade-coffee systems, silvipastures and living fences. Involving neighboring communities in reforestation is an important activity for engaging local people in conservation efforts and providing tree cover for resident and migratory birds.
An ecolodge, research station, trail system, and canopy tower have been built at Abra Patricia to promote ecotourism and reserve sustainability. ABC is also helping ECOAN offer small seed grants to attract researchers to the new research station.
What Next?
ABC and ECOAN are currently fundraising to purchase properties to add to the Abra Patricia Reserve.
Create and improve tools to generate income for the reserve such as ecotourism and carbon credits.
Take Action
Support conservation by birding in Peru! Abra Patricia has an ecolodge from which some visitors have heard the elusive Long-whiskered Owlet calling. Funds generated from ecotourism will directly support conservation actions. You can also donate to ABC to help acquire two additional properties adjoining the reserve.
