In Ecuador’s Yasuní, cameras reveal the wild neighbors visitors rarely see

Mongabay
Mongabay
1w ago • 9 views
High-resolution camera traps in Ecuador's Yasuní National Park are revealing hidden wildlife, indicating a healthy ecosystem. This initiative supports conservation and ecotourism efforts by the Kichwa community.
In Ecuador’s Yasuní, cameras reveal the wild neighbors visitors rarely see
A What happened
In Ecuador's Yasuní National Park, the Kichwa Sani Isla community is utilizing high-resolution camera traps to monitor local wildlife, a project initiated in February 2025 with the help of the fStop Foundation. The cameras have captured footage of at least six jaguars, suggesting a healthy ecosystem and intact food chain. This initiative supports the community's ecotourism efforts through the Sani Lodge, which helps protect the forest from threats like oil exploitation and deforestation. Community members have been trained to operate the cameras, allowing them to gain valuable skills while contributing to conservation. The project aims to provide insights into the area's biodiversity and inform future conservation strategies.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Community Empowerment: Local youths are trained in camera operation and conservation skills.

  • 2

    Biodiversity Monitoring: Camera traps reveal diverse wildlife, including jaguars and primates.

  • 3

    Ecotourism Benefits: Sani Lodge supports conservation and provides jobs for locals.

Takeaways

The camera trap project in Yasuní not only highlights the rich biodiversity of the region but also empowers the Kichwa community to engage in conservation efforts. By combining technology with traditional knowledge, the initiative fosters sustainable tourism and protects the forest ecosystem.

Topics

Climate & Environment Conservation