Since 2006, the organization has been carrying out important work to benefit the conservation of flora and fauna in the province of Pastaza. It receives animals that are victims of illegal trafficking. These animals are confiscated by environmental authorities during various checkpoints carried out in the province, as well as in major markets, plazas, and in homes where people keep them as pets or companion animals.
Ecuadorean law prohibits the possession of wild animals, and anyone who possesses, exhibits, hunts, or sells wildlife or wildlife products without the proper permits is punishable by 1 to 3 years in prison. (Art. 76, 79, 82, and 86 of the Wildlife Law)
Generally, the animals that enter wildlife management units in Ecuador are specimens that have been living in unfavorable conditions, in very small cages or confined spaces, with care and feeding inappropriate for their species.
Over time, it is very likely that many of the animals will die or be condemned to live in conditions unsuitable for their species.
Hence the need to involve society as a whole to find mechanisms to educate the population with the goal of raising social awareness about biodiversity and its importance to the entire world.
Currently, the YanaCocha Biopark houses more than 200 specimens, 42 species in total, which are under the care and attention of specialists, volunteers, and workers, who put all their love and effort into ensuring that these animals’ lives are in better conditions than they were previously.
Since 2006, we have been working on a park with an ecosystem suitable for the development of each of the species we host. The use of local materials, such as the naturalization of the exhibits, has generated very positive results when evaluating their behavior, taking into account the socio-ecology of the species.
YanaCocha covers a total of eight hectares, of which four are designated for the center and four hectares are maintained as a reserve area. It features mature primary and secondary forest, one of the few well-preserved areas near the city of Puyo. In this area, you can observe several species that have been released in coordination with the Ecuadorian Ministry of the Environment (MAE), such as sloths, boas, rodents, chichico monkeys, small carnivores, tairas, and opossums.
The improvement of the ecosystem, based on the reforestation and gardening programs we have implemented, has allowed us to gradually eliminate the old grasslands in favor of native vegetation. As a result, many species are beginning to populate YanaCocha. As an example, we have been able to identify 35 species of amphibians and nearly 87 species of birds that live wild in the Center.
The design and landscaping at YanaCocha can be seen when walking along the ecological trails, which are spread over a four-hectare area where sawdust, stone, and fences have been used. The design has been closely linked to water. Therefore, as you walk along the trails, you can see lagoons, ponds, and fountains that, along with tropical plants, provide a natural environment for the host species.
Contributing to the conservation of Amazonian wildlife species by providing specialized clinical care to individuals arriving at the rescue center, with the goal of restoring their physical health and behavior to reintegrate them into their natural environment.
Promote socialization within each group, an essential complement to the behavioral stability of individuals, especially in primate groups.
Generate research that contributes to the development of Amazonian wildlife conservation.
Ensuring their stay in an environment similar to natural conditions, with a balanced and species-appropriate diet.
Generate rehabilitation projects that allow individuals displaced from their natural environment due to illegal trafficking to reintegrate into nature.
To continuously train the Center's staff and other institutions related to the Conservation, Management, Ethology, and Nutrition of Amazonian wildlife species.
To train new veterinarians through the internship program, who will contribute to wildlife conservation efforts in the future.
Provide environmental education in various educational institutions that participate in some way in the conservation of wildlife species.
The daily activities require a great deal of work and effort. At YanaCocha, a team of professionals and many people work and collaborate directly and indirectly to make the Center a benchmark in the Pastaza province and the Amazon region of Ecuador.
Veterinarians, wildlife specialists, biologists, agronomists, national and international volunteers, interns, university students, researchers, and staff collaborate daily on activities related to conservation, education, nutrition, rehabilitation, ecotourism, design, planning, logistics, environmental enrichment, feeding and maintenance of the hundreds of animals that YanaCocha houses, as well as the beautification of the entire park.
