The Artificial Nests Program, developed by the Neotropic Foundation of Brazil, aims to expand its reach this year by building structures to support the reproduction of the blue-fronted parrot (Amazona aestiva), one of the most trafficked bird species in Brazil. The program is active in the Pantanal region of Mato Grosso do Sul, located in the central-west region of the country.
The initiative seeks to compensate for the loss of nesting trees destroyed during the devastating forest fires that ravaged the region in 2024. The program is led by Dr. Gláucia Seixas, a zoologist with a post-doctorate in Ecology and Nature Conservation and extensive hands-on experience in restoring nesting habitats for this species.
The project emerged as a response to the damage caused by bird trafficking. The blue-fronted parrot, prized for its striking colors and mimicry abilities, has become a target for traffickers. Classified as "Near Threatened" by Brazil's Ministry of the Environment since 2014 and the IUCN since 2019, these birds face a critical situation.
The chicks remain under their parents' care for about 65 days, during which traffickers break into nests to steal the young or even the eggs. Annually, around 80% of nests are raided, leaving them structurally compromised and more susceptible to predation or water damage. This disruption often prevents successful reproduction in subsequent years, a significant issue as the species is monogamous and breeds only once per year.
To mitigate these challenges, the foundation has crafted approximately 450 artificial nests over the past five years in the Cerrado and Atlantic Forest regions of Mato Grosso do Sul. These wooden nests mimic natural cavities commonly found in palm trees, providing adequate depth and diameter to house a pair of parrots and their chicks.
After installation, the team frequently observes rapid occupation by the parrots, highlighting the dire scarcity of natural nesting spaces in the region. The nests are installed in secure areas such as conservation units and private partner properties designated as "Loro-Friendly Properties." Monthly monitoring ensures nest integrity and documents occupation, egg-laying, chick births, and fledgling success.
"The parrots have embraced the artificial nests," says Dr. Seixas. "This success underscores the urgent need for such interventions."
The project aims to build, install, and monitor 200 new nests annually until the losses of natural nests stabilize.
As the project relies entirely on donations, every contribution directly supports the creation, installation, and monitoring of nests. Donations also help map trafficking routes and fund educational campaigns to promote conservation.
You can support the "Adopt a Nest" campaign by donating any amount via:
• PayPal: [email protected]
• PIX: +55 67 99252-8866
For more information about the Blue-Fronted Parrot Project, visit the Neotropic Foundation of Brazil’s website at www.fundacaoneotropica.org.br or follow the project on social media at @projetopapagaioverdadeiro. For direct inquiries, contact Dr. Gláucia Seixas at [email protected].