The recovery of the huemul in the Andean region adds a new chapter. While Newenche, the specimen that became a symbol of the restoration of this emblematic species, continues under permanent monitoring in a protected site, the Lanín National Park deepens actions aimed at recovering the natural environments once occupied by these native deer.
In this new stage, efforts are focused on reducing the impact of invasive exotic species that disrupt the ecological balance of the Andean-Patagonian forests. The goal is to create favorable conditions for the huemul to reestablish stable populations in areas where it disappeared decades ago.
Additionally, the work is part of a comprehensive conservation strategy involving scientific organizations, park rangers, universities, specialists, and local residents committed to the protection of biodiversity.
Wild boars and exotic deer under control
The environmental authorities consider that habitat restoration requires addressing multiple threats simultaneously. For this reason, the eradication of feral cattle and wild cows continues, while controls on wild boars and red deer are intensified.
These introduced species find favorable conditions to expand and occupy spaces that once belonged to native fauna. As a result, they create competition for resources and alter ecological processes essential for the regeneration of forests.
Furthermore, wild boars cause significant damage by disturbing the soil in search of food. This activity affects the growth of native trees, alters the ecosystem structure, and promotes the spread of invasive plant species.
Technology to protect ecosystems
As part of new management tools, the Lanín National Park has begun implementing the Pig Brig system, a technology designed to efficiently capture entire groups of wild boars.
Before installing the definitive structures, technical teams conduct monitoring tasks using camera traps and controlled baiting. This way, areas with higher activity are identified, optimizing the system’s effectiveness.
The project involves researchers from Conicet, specialists from CeAN, universities, and conservation staff. Additionally, the knowledge provided by local residents is crucial to locate areas where invasive populations are most concentrated.
The delicate conservation status of the huemul in Argentina
The huemul is one of the most threatened species in Patagonia and is listed as endangered. Currently, its populations survive in isolated sectors of the Andean forests of Argentina and Chile, with numbers significantly lower than historically recorded.
Among the main causes of its decline are habitat loss, ecosystem fragmentation, competition with introduced species, and the transmission of diseases from domestic livestock.
For this reason, restoration projects like the one being developed in Lanín National Park are considered essential to ensure its survival. The recovery of biological corridors and the elimination of threats increase the chances of the species reoccupying part of its original distribution.
Priority areas for environmental restoration
The control tasks are especially carried out in Queñi, the valley of Lake Venados, and the Pampa Caruin area, sectors identified as priorities for ecological recovery.
In Lake Venados, where a strict reserve operates, access restrictions aim to minimize human disturbances and favor natural restoration processes. Meanwhile, conservation teams conduct constant monitoring to assess the ecosystem’s evolution.
Meanwhile, Newenche continues to be observed daily by park rangers from the Lanín National Park and professionals from the Huilo Huilo reserve. Its good condition represents an encouraging sign for a species whose recovery depends on sustained efforts and the comprehensive protection of the environments it needs to survive.
