The orange-fronted parakeet, a threatened species in Oaxaca, Mexico, has lost 32.6% of its original habitat and is facing illegal trade, prompting protective measures under NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010.
A team of researchers from the University of the Sea, led by Dr. Miguel Ángel de Labra Hernández, is combining ecology with environmental education to safeguard this species, vital for local ecosystems and a symbol of conservation challenges in Mexico.
Dr. De Labra has focused on the ecological needs of Psittaciformes, including various parakeets and macaws, conducting studies across diverse regions in Mexico. His research highlights the alarming decline of the orange-fronted parakeet due to habitat destruction and illegal capture, which has seen up to 23,500 individuals taken in just five years.
Incorporating social components into conservation efforts, the team has initiated educational programs for primary school students in the communities of Camalote and Colotepec, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the orange-fronted parakeet.
Through workshops and interactive activities, the program has shown promising results in changing children's perceptions about wildlife conservation, emphasizing the ecological roles of these birds beyond being mere pets.
The positive impact of this initiative underscores the necessity of community involvement in conservation strategies. As Oaxaca moves towards a model where science and education unite, there is hope for the future of the orange-fronted parakeet and other endangered species.