In a joint effort to protect the rhea (Rhea pennata) and increase the population, 15 wild specimens were transferred from Parque Patagonia Argentina in Santa Cruz to Parque Nacional Patagonia de Chile in the Aysén region.
This project aims to restore rhea populations, a species in danger of extinction in the Chilean Patagonia, in areas where they have drastically decreased. This is due to hunting, overgrazing, and nest destruction.
Reintroduction process
The 15 rheas will go through an adaptation period in enclosures before being released into their natural habitat.
Since 2015, Parque Patagonia de Chile has been working on a program to increase the population of this species, including breeding in reproduction centers. Currently, there are around 68 free-ranging rheas, and the goal is to reach 100 to ensure a sustainable population.
Project’s importance
Chile’s Minister of Agriculture, Esteban Valenzuela, emphasized that this binational action could serve as a model for future conservation initiatives.
Rewilding Chile Foundation, in charge of the project, highlighted that the rhea’s reintroduction not only protects this South American endemic species but also contributes to balancing the ecosystems in the region.
Rhea’s characteristics
The rhea, considered the largest bird in Chile, measures between 90 and 100 cm and does not fly, but its long legs allow it to run at high speeds.
The species is vital for the Patagonia ecosystems, but faced a sharp decline in Aysén due to human pressure.
A conservation legacy
Parque Patagonia, where the rheas will be released, is part of the philanthropist Douglas Tompkins’ legacy, who donated 8,000 km² of land to Chile and Argentina for nature conservation.
Cover photo: IStock
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