Brazil Creates Wildlife Refuge Protecting Rare Parrots

In Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, the Serra das Araras Wildlife Refuge was established on April 28, 2026, stemming from a childhood dream and years of scientific research and activism. The refuge’s creation involved Damião Valdenor de Oliveira, who as a child was captivated by the vibrant maracanã-verdadeira parrot, and researchers at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte.

Their work revealed a dwindling population of fewer than 50 of these parrots, prompting efforts to conserve their habitat. Initial proposals for conservation faced bureaucratic delays, but a surge in planned wind energy projects spurred a coalition of researchers, activists, and local residents, the Seridó Vivo Group, to advocate for the area’s protection.

This group highlighted potential environmental impacts and successfully lobbied for the creation of a protected area. The newly established refuge spans over 12,000 hectares across three municipalities and safeguards over 230 bird species, including the maracanã-verdadeira, along with 18 mammal species, including four threatened felines.

The refuge aims to balance conservation with the livelihoods of local communities and promote sustainable ecotourism. Damião now works with the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation, applying lessons learned from the maracanã-verdadeira to a blue macaw reintroduction project.