In a troubling turn of events for global biodiversity, significant forest fires are ravaging the Encontro das Águas State Park in Brazil, while illegal logging threatens native forests in Peru.
Since September 20, 2024, wildfires have consumed approximately 33.5% of the Encontro das Águas State Park, a crucial habitat for the endangered jaguar (Panthera onca). Despite the efforts of 120 firefighters and environmental agents, the fires, suspected to have been sparked by natural causes, continue to pose a severe threat to the park's wildlife and ecosystem.
According to biologist Fernando Tortato from the NGO Panthera, the fires have drastically reduced food sources for jaguars, as their primary prey, such as capybaras and caimans, are impacted by the ongoing drought and habitat destruction.
Meanwhile, in Peru, the National Forest and Wildlife Service (Serfor) is investigating illegal logging activities that have devastated 12 hectares of montane forest in the conservation area of Jaén and Tabaconas. This region is classified as a conservation zone, and the damage to native species is alarming, with many local trees facing extinction due to agricultural expansion.
Serfor's team, led by engineer Christian Meléndez, confirmed the destruction of forest heritage and called for public assistance in identifying those responsible for these illegal activities. The area affected is under strict protection laws, and legal actions are anticipated against the offenders.
Both incidents highlight the urgent need for global awareness and action to protect vital ecosystems. The Pantanal, known for its rich biodiversity, faces irreversible losses if these fires continue unchecked, while the forests of Peru are losing their native species to illegal activities. Representatives from the Pantanal have urged international bodies to recognize the importance of these ecosystems in regulating the global climate and biodiversity.