Community Conservation for Andean Bears in Bolivia

Dear Supporters,

We’re thrilled to share an exciting new glimpse into the hidden world of Andean Bears, captured through our ongoing work in Bolivia’s cloud forests. Our field cameras recently recorded a rare and fascinating behavior—two different Andean bears rubbing against the same tree just one day apart!

Watch the video here: https://www.facebook.com/ProgramaJucumari/videos/1843432486430739

While we haven’t yet confirmed the age or sex of these individuals, the footage provides a window into the complex social communication system of this elusive and endangered species. Here’s what makes this behavior so special:

Andean Bears Are Solitary but Connected:
Though they live alone and are not territorial, Andean bears communicate by leaving scent marks. They rub their heads, necks, shoulders, and sides against trees and other objects, leaving behind chemical "messages" that other bears revisit over time.

The Height of the Mark Matters:
The level at which a bear rubs may indicate its size or social status, and help others identify a potential mate, family member, or competitor.

"Meeting Trees" as Communication Hubs:
Bears often choose visually distinct trees—like certain conifers—that help preserve their scent for longer. These trees become communication hubs in the forest.

More Than Just Rubbing:
In addition to rubbing, Andean bears may scratch or bite the bark to reinforce their message.

This behavior, rarely observed in the wild, is a beautiful example of how wildlife uses chemical signals to maintain social networks—without ever needing to meet face-to-face.

Your support is what makes this research possible. With your help, we are learning more every day about Andean bear behavior and protecting their fragile habitats through community-based conservation and women-led research.

Thank you for standing with us in safeguarding the future of this incredible species.

With gratitude,
The Women for Conservation Team – Programa Jucumari

Links:

• Video of Andean Bears caught on camera

Dear Supporters,

We are thrilled to share an inspiring update from our project, which would not have been possible without your generous support. Your contributions have directly empowered rural women in Bolivia to take the lead in conservation efforts while improving their livelihoods. Through initiatives like Kanti Andino, the project is addressing urgent environmental challenges while uplifting local communities.

Meet Andrea Fuentes and Kanti Andino
Andrea Fuentes, an environmental engineer and founder of Kanti Andino, has shared a glimpse into how this project is transforming lives. Kanti Andino was born from the Jucumari Program, a community-based conservation initiative dedicated to protecting the Andean Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus). With your help, the program has grown into a unique initiative combining sustainable artisanal weaving with species conservation.

This project began in early 2021 when Andrea and her team engaged local communities to identify ways to address environmental challenges sustainably. During this process, the voices of local women resonated with clarity and confidence: "We know how to weave. Can you help us?" From there, a new path of collaboration emerged, blending traditional skills with conservation goals. Thanks to your generosity, this vision is now a reality.

Weaving Conservation and Community Empowerment
Today, the women of Kanti Andino handcraft textiles inspired by their natural surroundings. These weavings are not only beautiful but also contribute directly to the conservation of Andean Spectacled Bears. The profits support fair trade, provide sustainable income for the women artisans, and create a deeper connection between local communities and conservation efforts.

Through your donations, Kanti Andino has also been able to deliver workshops on empowerment, conservation, and sustainable livelihoods. These sessions have been transformative for the women, fostering a strong sense of leadership and stewardship of their ecosystems. The relationship between the artisans, their craft, and the protection of Andean wildlife continues to grow stronger, all thanks to your belief in their potential.

A Journey of Growth and Challenges
While Kanti Andino has made significant progress, there is still much to achieve. Andrea and her team are working hard to expand their marketing and outreach efforts to bring these incredible products to a broader audience. They are determined to continue this journey, equipped with the skills, resilience, and vision to move forward.

Your support has been instrumental in building this foundation, allowing women to gain confidence, provide for their families, and contribute to the protection of Bolivia's vulnerable wildlife. The challenges ahead are great, but so are the possibilities—thanks to you.

Continue Supporting Women and Wildlife
The story of Kanti Andino is just the beginning. With your ongoing help, we can ensure that women like Andrea and the artisans she supports can keep growing their impact. By donating to our ongoing project, Support Women Scientists Saving Endangered Wildlife, you will be directly contributing to the conservation of species like the Andean Spectacled Bear and to the empowerment of rural women across Bolivia.

Together, we are weaving a brighter future—one where people and nature can thrive in harmony. Thank you for being a part of this journey.

With gratitude,
The Women for Conservation Team
P.S. Watch Andrea’s inspiring story in our latest project video here!

Links:

• Proyecto Jucumari - Women for Conservation's Bolivia partner