Camera traps

Camera traps – motion triggered cameras – are innovative conservation tools, which help us gain an insight into the secret world of many endangered species. Armed with infrared sensors, the cameras take a picture whenever they sense movement in the forest.

While the device itself is not complicated, getting hold of the footage is.  Scientists must conduct extensive research – gathering information through talking to local communities and conducting surveys of animal tracks – in order to determine the best area to place their cameras.  Also, because the cameras are set up in such remote locations, it often takes a full day to hike to each one.

Red Brocket Deer

(Mazama Americana)

The red brocket deer travels alone or in pairs, and is threatened by hunting and deforestation.

Ocelot

(Leopardus pardalis)

Historically targeted for its uniquely marked coat, the ocelot is now protected by both national and international laws.

Razor-Billed Curassow

(Mitu tuberosum)

The razor-billed curassow is species of bird native to the subtropical, tropical and lowland forests of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.

Short Ear Dog

(Atelocynus microtis)

Sightings of this rare species are few and far between, as they face habitat loss and diseases from domestic dogs.

Puma

(Puma concolor)

Pumas are a versatile species with habitat ranging from their preferred dense forest to the open desert.

Giant Anteater

(Myrmecophaga tridactyla)

This giant eats up to 30,000 insects in a single day.

Jaguar

(Panthera onca)

Jaguars are threatened by habitat loss and retaliatory killings by ranchers as jaguars sometimes take livestock.

Tapir

(Tapirus terrestris)

Tapirs inhabit the lowland South American forests.  In addition to being hunted for their meat, they also face habitat loss from deforestation and human development.

Giant Armadillo

(Priodontes maximus)

The rare and vulnerable giant armadillo averages 60 lbs. (27 kg.) and feasts primarily upon termites and certain ant species.  Having few natural predators, humans pose the largest threat to these mammals through hunting and deforestation.