Save a Magnificent Macaw from Regional Extinction

Thanks to your past donations to the Cyanoptera macaw project, we were able to help cricitally endangered macaws nest successfully in the past. Because were in rainy season the last several months, we were not able to access the Cosiguina Volcano and the macaw nesting areas, located in northwestern El Salvador. Some believe that the macaws fly between countries that circle the Gulf of Foseca in order to forage in the mangrove forests located on small islands in the Gulf.  

Presently, this program not have institutional support, so we are relying on donors like you to protect the nesting birds this season. The macaws nest between December and May, and so right now the paired birds are looking for the most ideal nest cavity high in a tree, difficult access for poachers. 

Our goal is to raise $1200 so that macaws can nest.  The funds will be used to carry out an immediate field visit to the nesting sites and to clear non-native, agressive bees from historical nest cavities and also the artificial nest structures we installed three years ago. This is a critical step because the bees will prevent the macaws from nesting, and due to many years of wildfires in the area, there are a limited number of nest cavities. These funds would cover the cost of the tree climbers, field supplies, travel expenses like fuel, meals, and lodging in a rural hostel, Preparing the nests for the season will enable the macaws to nest, and will give this critically endangered sub-species a fighting chance. 

Thank you for considering a renewal of your donation to this GlobalGiving project, and for not giving up on the last Cyanoptera macaw population on the pacific slope of Central America. 

Sincerely,

Sarah Otterstrom 

Dear friend,

We are delighted to share that the Cyanoptera Macaws continue to persist in the Cosiguina Peninsula, thanks to your continued support. These brilliant and resilient birds remain a symbol of hope and strength in the region, and so do the people working to protect them.

During the 2024–25 nesting season, our budget was extremely limited, but our community rangers remained committed. They carried out regular patrols in the nesting area, ensuring a steady presence that deters poachers and protects the remaining macaw pairs. Their dedication, even under tight resource constraints, was truly inspiring.

This year, the Ministry set up camera traps at several of the nest sites. These cameras are a crucial tool for deterring poachers and monitoring the eggs.

Although we were unable to return to full hands-on nest monitoring this season, we believe these modest efforts are laying the groundwork for a stronger future. Looking ahead, we hope to secure more resources so that we can return to intensive monitoring, manage threats like invasive bees, and offer direct protection to vulnerable nests.

Thank you for standing with us and with the Cyanoptera Macaws. Your support helps us push forward, even when resources are stretched thin. With your continued help, we believe we can secure a future for this magnificent species on the brink of extinction.

With deep gratitude,

The Paso Pacífico Team