The yellow cardinal is one of the many native species of South America, which can be found in this country, specifically in the northwest provinces of Argentina such as Entre Ríos, Corrientes, and Misiones. However, these birds are in serious danger of extinction, which is why a group of conservation experts, NGOs, and government agencies are working together to ensure their survival.
This species is known as an emblematic bird of the Pampas grasslands and wetlands, but it has spread throughout the country to reach Misiones and the south of Buenos Aires. However, its situation has caused the last populations of this animal to concentrate in Corrientes and near Gualeguaychú, especially in the South Uruguayan Coast.
These changes in location are a clear indication of habitat modification and loss, not to mention their capture for illegal trafficking and parasitism of chicks by the shiny cowbird, factors that have caused an 80% decrease in their population in recent decades.
A few years ago, the number of specimens in the country was below 1,500, a figure that has not been updated yet. However, estimates from BirdLife International warn that there are only about 7,000 of these birds left in the world.
The yellow cardinal is in serious danger of extinction.
The task of protecting the yellow cardinal
Faced with the serious situation these birds are going through, a group of conservation specialists, NGOs, and government agencies have decided to work together in the province of Entre Ríos to save the “Gualeguaychú Bird,” a title bestowed by the City Council of the city.
To achieve this goal, those involved have implemented a technique known as “Colony Guardians,” which replicates the method used in Patagonia with the Macá Tobiano Project. This technique involves a group of experts and volunteers who monitor the colonies from sunrise to sunset, becoming custodians of the few remaining specimens.
To ensure the success of the project, researchers camp at the site and dedicate long hours to conservation tasks, highlighting the enthusiasm and curiosity of the volunteers who join this important project for the conservation of this species.
Different sectors working towards a common goal
The protectionist mission also has the support of the Municipality of Gualeguaychú, which during the month of October signed an agreement with Aves Argentinas to implement a comprehensive plan that promotes conservation, focusing on the protection and restoration of the natural habitats of this species.
This agreement includes monitoring its population and developing an action plan with scientific support. Additionally, the organization commits to providing technical and scientific support in order to develop management plans and carry out projects in the protected areas of the municipality, to strengthen biodiversity conservation efforts.
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