In a scenario marked by the deterioration of marine ecosystems, Peru, Chile, and Ecuador are advancing in a joint strategy to protect the Peruvian pelican, an emblematic species of the Humboldt current.
Additionally, the initiative was approved during the COP15 of the Convention on Migratory Species, consolidating a new chapter in regional environmental cooperation. Consequently, a common framework is established to address the decline of this marine bird.
Trinational coordination to conserve a declining species
The agreement proposes an articulation between the three countries to improve the protection of the pelican. In this sense, the creation of a trinational working group is planned to coordinate monitoring and research actions.
Furthermore, one of the central objectives is to standardize methodologies for population censuses. This will allow for comparable data across the species’ distribution area and improve decision-making.
On the other hand, the plan includes identifying key breeding and feeding areas. These areas are essential, as the pelican depends on specific marine conditions to survive.
Environmental and human factors behind the decline
The impetus for this measure responds to a sharp population decline. In some nesting areas in Peru, the decrease reaches at least 70%, which raises concern among specialists.
Firstly, the El Niño phenomenon alters the sea temperature and affects the availability of anchovy, the pelican’s main food. As a result, its feeding patterns are modified.
However, human factors such as overfishing and incidental capture in nets also influence. Added to this is the health impact of avian flu, which since 2022 has caused episodes of high mortality.
The Peruvian pelican: characteristics and conservation status
The Pelecanus thagus is a large marine bird adapted to fishing in coastal waters. Its long bill with a gular pouch allows it to efficiently catch fish, being a key component of the marine ecosystem.
Additionally, it mainly inhabits the Humboldt current, one of the planet’s most productive ocean systems. There, it plays a fundamental role in the food chain and nutrient dynamics.
However, its conservation status raises alarm. The decline in its populations, combined with climatic and human threats, positions it as a vulnerable species requiring urgent protection measures.
Ecological and economic impact of its conservation
The importance of the pelican is not limited to the environmental. Indeed, its presence contributes to the formation of island guano, a key natural resource for agriculture.
Therefore, its conservation has direct economic implications, especially in sustainable productive systems. This reinforces the need to integrate environmental policies and development.
Finally, cooperation between countries emerges as an indispensable tool. Through joint actions, the aim is to ensure the survival of the species and preserve the balance of the marine ecosystems of the southern Pacific.
