Proyecto Cardenal Amarillo
Proyecto Cardenal Amarillo (PCA) is an initiative to rescue and protect endangered songbirds, specifically yellow cardinals, that are becoming victims of trafficking. This project is led by Fundación Temaikèn, an Argentine foundation focused on protecting endangered species and native ecosystems and connecting people with nature through education.
Threats to yellow cardinals
Yellow cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata) is widespread in dry grasslands and scrubs and open forests in Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil. It usually stays in pairs or small groups. Currently, the size of the wild population is estimated at only 1,000-2,000 adult individuals, and the species is classified as Endangered in the IUCN Red List. Besides habitat loss due to expanding eucalyptus plantations, deforestation, and livestock farming, the biggest threat to these songbirds is the illegal capture and sale of birds for cage breeding. Cardinals form pairs for more than one breeding season, so the practices of hunters, who mainly capture males for their more vivid colouring and distinctive singing, are particularly devastating to the population. In addition, only one out of ten captured individuals survive on average.
Activities of PCA
Proyecto Cardenal Amarillo supported by Fundación Temaikèn strives to save yellow cardinals and protect their natural environment. Individuals seized from illegal traders are transported to a rescue station, where they are treated and rehabilitated. In cooperation with the non-governmental organization Aves Argentinas, genetic studies are used to determine their area of birds’ origin. The birds are given a radio transmitter and released back into the wild. The foundation is also dedicated to research, education, and work with the local community.
You can learn more at www.fundaciontemaiken.org.ar.
How the Ostrava Zoo helps
Since 2008, the Ostrava Zoo has been breeding this warbler - it can currently be seen in the La Pampa aviary, where it is the rarest resident. However, in 2020 the Ostrava Zoo decided to get involved in the protection of yellow cardinals also in their homeland (in situ). The zoo, therefore, provided the Temaikèn Foundation’s project with radios to monitor the cardinals released back into the wild and, together with all its visitors, it supports the Fundación Temaikèn through the “3 CZK for Wildlife” program.
