The beautiful–and endangered–black lion tamarin (Leontopithecus chrysopygus). Photo by Miguelrangeljr – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=38168478
SavingSpecies is thrilled to announce an exciting new project to connect, protect, and restore the Mata Atlantica—Brazil’s Atlantic Coastal Forest! This immense, sprawling forest is home to spectacular wildlife, including lion tamarins, jaguars, tapirs, and countless bird species. But tragically, centuries of deforestation have severely fragmented this expansive forest—and driven iconic species to the brink of extinction.
Our project is fighting back against extinction—and you can help! Joining our local Brazilian partner organization, the Institute for Ecological Research (IPÊ), SavingSpecies’ project will restore 21 hectares (52 acres) in different segments to achieve connectivity among fragmented forests and two protected areas.
One of the species that will be most immediately helped is the endangered black lion tamarin (Leontopithecus chrysopygus), whose estimated wild population in 2014 was only 1,200 individuals—perilously low. But by improving forest corridor connections we can help make black lion tamarin populations more sustainable.
Jaguars call the Mata Atlantica home–help us protect their habitat. Photo by Laury Cullen.
Many other species will be helped, too! The mighty jaguar is found here, as are the eccentric-looking and shy tapir, and many species of birds. Increased connectivity means that wildlife has more room to roam—and eat and breed, too!
This is truly a dream forest corridor—but we need the support of donors like you to make this dream a reality. And by supporting this project, you’re putting trees in the ground, and helping take carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere—fighting global warming and mass species extinction at the same time.
Please read on to our project page to learn more about this important conservation effort!
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