Pumas: Icons of the Americas

From the snowy wilds of Alaska to the rugged southern tip of Chile, one big cat has mastered a variety of biomes. In North America and South America, the puma stalks its prey, raises its young, and splits the air with its distinct screaming calls. 

This long-tailed, enigmatic felid has proven extremely adaptable to a range of environments despite threats like human hunting and habitat loss. At Paso Pacifico, our mission to protect the wildlife of Mesoamerica includes educating audiences about the importance of the puma and the delicate ecosystems it inhabits.

How the Pumas of North and South America Live

The puma’s scientific name is Puma concolor, which describes the uniformly colored coat sported by mature specimens. Unlike many cat species, pumas have no patterns like spots, stripes, or rosettes on their fur. Instead, they have a plain coat that may range in shade from grayish, tawny, or reddish. Even pumas from the same litter can display a variation of shades. 

The puma is a sizable cat. It is often the largest felid predator in its ecosystem. The only exception would be in zones where the puma habitat overlaps with those of jaguars. Since the puma’s range covers nearly all of South America and the majority of western North America, the species displays considerable variation in size across its range. 

Observers have recorded that pumas are generally smaller in size the closer they live to the equator. Toward the northern and southern fringes of their distribution in the Americas, pumas tend to be larger. The most impressive puma specimens can reach up to 200 pounds and measure about seven feet from nose to tail.

Habits and Lifestyle

Imposing in form, the puma reigns as the Western Hemisphere’s runner-up in feline size, overshadowed only by the jaguar. However, this grandeur doesn’t secure its footing within the revered “big cat” league. The five customary titans—lions, tigers, jaguars, leopards, and snow leopards—dwell together under the genus Panthera, bound by lineage and their signature roars.

Curiously, this roaring sound is unattainable for the puma of the genus Puma and the cheetah of Acinonyx. Without the Panthera’s modified hyoid bone, they lack the anatomy required to produce those deep, resounding roars. Instead, the puma possesses an impressive vocal arsenal, enabling it to chirp, purr, and growl.

Only during courtship will the puma’s cry truly startle. A high-pitched, almost eerie wail, often mistaken for a distressed woman echoes through the wilds, as if the puma were offering its own haunting reminder that it is independent from the big cat chorus. Females that are in season produce these calls to attract nearby males. 

Pumas are not as solitary as other big cat species like tigers, jaguars, and leopards, nor are they as social as lions. Male pumas have larger territories than females. Several female pumas might establish their territory within a single male’s domain. Individuals within the same home range have been known to share kills, and conspecific violence is rare with pumas that are familiar to each other.

Diet and Nutrition

When it comes to sharing kills, pumas have a buffet of options to choose from. They are generalist hypercarnivores, which means they will take both large and small prey depending on availability. 

Prey recognition is a learned behavior in pumas, so the cats in different ecosystems will go after different prey animals. From large mammals like deer, elk, sheep, goats, and guanacos, to smaller prey like rodents, rabbits, and birds, pumas are equipped to hunt them all.

A Hunter by Any Other Name… 

This elusive prowler, often mistaken for different big cats, goes by a myriad of names. Is the puma a cougar? Or perhaps a mountain lion? The answer, despite the names, is a resounding “yes.” In North America, it’s commonly the “cougar,” while South Americans know it as “puma.” But these terms merely scratch the surface.

Beyond these monikers, the puma revels in a quirky array of titles: “mountain screamer,” “deer tiger,” “catamount,” and the almost fantastical “catawampus.” With over 40 English variations, the puma has captured a Guinness World Record for holding the most names among mammals, a fitting title for such an enigmatic creature.

Can You See Pumas in the Wild?

Occupying a vast range across the Western Hemisphere, the puma proves to be one of the most widely spread mammals. Its ability to thrive on varied diets and adapt to a multitude of habitats accounts for its extensive reach. 

Although threatened by hunting and habitat encroachment, the puma endures. Despite their gradual decline, they hold a “Least Concern” status on the IUCN Red List.

But pumas aren’t easy to spot. Known as “ghosts of the wilderness,” these cats move with a silence and swiftness that befits their reclusive nature. Wildlife experts often say that a sighting only occurs if the puma intends to be seen, making encounters scarce and precious. Their stalking behavior renders them nearly invisible, slipping through shadows and blending seamlessly into the backdrop.

The Puma’s Main Habitat

As the nickname “mountain lion” suggests, the puma is well-suited to rocky elevations. In Patagonia, the Andean puma reaches an impressive size, allowing it to adapt to the rugged terrain. 

Yet, this feline is far from picky; it lives across diverse biomes, from dense jungles to temperate woodlands. Such adaptability means wherever there is prey and shelter, the puma is apt to dwell, quietly acclimating to the local landscape.

Legends of the Puma

Seeing a magnificent predator like the puma is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It makes perfect sense then that the puma would become a significant figure in the mythology of native populations. 

The Incas believed that the puma was a familiar of the thunder god. They regarded it with great reverence. Pumas also occupy a prominent position in Incan iconography and symbolism. 

Meanwhile, Native American tribes have their own beliefs about the puma. For some, like the Apache, the sound of a screaming puma was an omen of death. Others, like the Cherokee, believed it was a sacred animal.

How To Handle a Puma Encounter

The best way to see a puma is in its natural habitat and from a safe distance. Even though attacks on humans are extremely rare, it’s best to afford them the same respect that all large predators are due. 

In the event of an unplanned encounter with a puma, it’s best to back away from the cat while making yourself seem as large as possible. Maintain direct eye contact and make loud sounds. 

If a puma attacks, it’s better to defend yourself with sticks, rocks, or even your bare hands rather than playing dead. 

Paso Pacifico Pushes for Puma Protection

The jungles of Central America are home to a population of pumas, and Paso Pacifico is hard at work protecting these beautiful cats’ homes. From field surveys monitoring puma and jaguar populations, to securing core habitats so species like the puma can thrive, we are wholly committed to upholding the puma’s place as a true icon of the Americas.

Paso Pacifico’s approach is inclusive, holistic, and community-based. We work with local community members and organizations to conserve animals and their homes. We focus on issues that affect wildlife conditions, take time to understand the context, and innovate solutions. 

This has led us to initiatives that champion environmental education, cultivate relationships with farmers and fishermen, and employ innovations like camera traps.Help us safeguard wildlife and their homes by donating to Paso Pacifico today.

Beyond their vast proportions, whale sharks seldom escape notice, not only due to size but for the peculiar patchwork of spots and stripes adorning them. Curiously, these visual signatures differ for each individual—akin to fingerprints among humans—serving as markers for differentiation.

Classified under the scientific name Rhincodon typus, these giants are the planet’s largest sharks and fish. Fully matured specimens stretch to an imposing 60 feet and tip the scales at 11 tons, a mass similar to three grown elephants.

Favoring tepid waters, they traverse tropical and subtropical zones, swimming across coastal domains and vast open seas, meandering through depths and shallows alike. Plankton, their primary sustenance, dictates their migratory habits, luring them to fertile feeding grounds.

These creatures are not mere wanderers but pivotal players in marine ecological balance. For those intrigued, their tale stretches beyond size, from survival struggles to fascinating quirks.

Our nonprofit, engaged in maintaining wildlife corridors, hopes that learning more about them will motivate you to rally to our cause.

Why Has There Been a Decline in Whale Shark Populations?

Whale sharks are capable of great longevity and steady reproduction under protected environments but some habitat threats are causing their populations to dip. They have been officially listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List since 2016, making their protection and conservation an urgent concern. 

Their population is estimated to be around 100,000 to 200,000 worldwide. These numbers will continue to decline if threats remain unaddressed. 

Several factors contribute to their diminishing population. 

Rising Ocean Temperatures 

Rising temperatures due to climate change continue to disrupt ocean habitats. Whale sharks thrive in warm and mild water temperatures and extreme heat above 86 degrees Fahrenheit can harm in various ways. They can also feel stressed which can affect their health. 

Warm water also makes it harder for whale sharks to breathe because it holds less dissolved oxygen. This can also disrupt plankton distribution, causing them to have less access to food sources. 

Unregulated Fisheries

Demand for whale shark meat, fins, and oil leads to overfishing or unregulated fisheries. Some culinary cultures feature shark meat and fins as staple ingredients, thus causing targeted fishing without limits. Failure to strictly implement regulations results in whale sharks being targeted by fishing communities for profit.

Because these fish are found in various regions around the world like the Indian, Atlantic, and Pacific oceans, there is a misconception that they remain abundant. Hence, overfishing is sometimes rationalized as something that can be compensated through reproduction. However, their dwindling populations prove otherwise.

Pollution

Another threat to whale sharks is their habitat’s degradation caused by multifactorial ocean pollution. This includes toxic water contaminants due to industrialization, microplastics, increased boat traffic, noise pollution, damage to coral reefs, and other forms of disruption in otherwise stable environments for whale sharks.

Bycatch

Large nets used in commercial fishing result in whale sharks being accidentally caught. Casting these nets also negatively affects coral reefs.  As nets get pulled out with the rest of the fish, the coral reefs are damaged, disrupting the whale shark’s ability to survive. 

Unsustainable Tourism

Tourism, when unchecked, poses risks. Whale sharks, though magnets for visitors, face threats from excessive boat traffic, disruptive noise, and accumulated waste. Such disturbances can endanger their habitats. The solution lies in well-crafted policies from governing bodies coupled with stringent regulations. By collaborating with local communities, Paso Pacifico ensures tourism is managed in a way that shields marine ecosystems.

Ocean Acidification

The ocean, an absorber of atmospheric carbon dioxide, bears the brunt of this chemical exchange, leading to what’s known as ocean acidification. This acidification, a process where carbonic acid forms, disrupts mineral balances crucial for creatures like shellfish, lobsters, and shrimp, impacting their skeletal development. The domino effect destabilizes the marine environment, threatening not only these species but also the broader ecosystem.

Injuries

Whale sharks face dangers beyond the unseen chemical threats. They frequently fall victim to boat propellers, entanglement in discarded fishing gear, and collisions with vessels. Additionally, oil spills and industrial contaminants further jeopardize their survival. Raising awareness of such hazards is critical to safeguarding these gentle giants and preserving their marine habitats for future generations.

Facts About This Colossal Fish

Here are some qualities that make whale sharks unique and significant members of our marine ecosystems.

They Are Gentle Giants

Despite their intimidating size, whale sharks are gentle creatures that do not stalk or catch prey. They simply feed on plankton and live quietly in oceans. This harmless nature makes them a big attraction for tourists.

They Swallow Their Food Whole

Despite having an intimidating 300 rows of teeth, whale sharks are filter feeders. This means they simply open their mouths wide to swallow small fish and crustaceans without biting or chewing on them. 

Baby Whale Sharks Are a Mystery

Female whale sharks’ birthing processes have never been observed and sightings of pups are very rare. This makes whale sharks relatively hard to track and study. 

They Don’t Have Bones

They are cartilaginous, meaning their skeleton is made up entirely of cartilage, not bones.

Some Have Tiny Teeth on their Eyeballs

Some whale sharks have dermal denticles or tiny teeth on their eyeballs. 

They Reproduce at Around 30 Years Old

Female whale sharks give birth when they reach about 30 years old, with a gestation period lasting 3 to 4 years. 

They Can Live Up to a Century

A whale shark’s lifespan reaches 70 to 100 years. This may be attributed to their slow growth rate, slow metabolisms, and few threats or predators.  

They grow quickly while young, eventually achieving maturity at 30 years old. The decades-long period before they become full-grown adds to the species’ vulnerability.

How Nonprofits Are Preserving Whale Shark Populations

Nonprofits play an important role in preserving whale shark populations. 

Paso Pacifico’s mission to protect biodiversity includes preserving whale sharks and their habitats. It is a collaborative effort that engages local communities in raising awareness about the importance of sustainable practices from fishing to tourism.

Establishing Protected Areas and Protecting Wildlife Corridors

Whale sharks need protected breeding and feeding areas so they can reproduce and seek sustenance safely. Paso Pacifico is working to preserve marine areas like coral reefs where whale sharks can be found.

Scientific Research

Some environmental organizations conduct scientific research, enabling them to develop data-driven conservation strategies and solutions.

Community Engagement

We collaborate with fisherfolks, local fishing industries, coastal community leaders, business leaders, and government agencies to bring about crucial protections for whale shark conservation. 

Protect Whale Sharks With Paso Pacifico 

Whale sharks may be sizeable but their chances of survival will continue to shrink if we do not take adequate action to protect them. Our holistic approach enables us to bring together financial resources, data, and manpower to create a safer and healthier environment for these endangered fish. 

We protect the coastal systems of Central America where the degradation of whale shark habitats continues to threaten their numbers. 

Get involved by donating. This will help us make significant strides in our conservation efforts. Whale sharks need our help today if we are to continue enjoying these majestic gentle creatures in the future.

Additionally, you can also participate in eco-friendly tourism, encourage others to donate, volunteer with marine protection groups, and raise awareness through social media and educational outreach.

Let’s act now before it becomes too late and these precious animals are lost to us forever.

Flanked by the vast Pacific on one side and the Atlantic on the other, Central America’s shores stretch for hundreds of miles, hosting an impressive variety of coastal wildlife. Among their standout inhabitants is the brown pelican, a formidable seabird and one of the largest in these waters. 

Scientifically named Pelecanus occidentalis, their presence signals not just natural beauty but also the health of marine ecosystems. These pelicans are vital indicators of coastal wellbeing, offering clues about the region’s environmental state. As an organization dedicated to conserving the wildlife corridors where these majestic birds live, educating the public about these vital species is part of our life’s work. 

Let’s explore a few curious insights into fascinating birds.

Brown Pelican Facts

Of the eight known pelican species, the brown pelican is the smallest among them. Despite its more modest size, it compensates with its vivid appearance. While most pelicans are draped in pale, whitish feathers, the brown pelican boldly defies this standard, sporting a darker, earth-toned plumage. During the breeding season, their coloring intensifies, adding even brighter accents to their already distinctive looks, making them a truly striking exception in the pelican family.

These birds tend to choose a new mate every year. At the start of the breeding season, males will attempt to win a mate by selecting a nesting site and putting on courtship displays. Competition for nesting sites between males can be fierce, as brown pelicans tend to nest in large colonies comprising hundreds or even thousands of individuals. 

Once a breeding pair has formed bonds, the male and female will share the duties of building the nest and brooding the eggs. The females usually lay between two to four eggs every year. 

Perhaps it’s this sociable, flock-loving disposition that makes the brown pelican so at ease around people. These birds are often found gracing both the Pacific and Atlantic shores, and they’ve developed quite the reputation for lingering near fishing boats and piers, where they seem perfectly content mingling with humans. There have been instances of brown pelicans being tamed by people who have won the birds’ trust with offerings of fish. 

The Pelecanus occidentalis’ affections can be won through its appetite. Like other members of its kind, it sports a throat pouch disproportionate to its frame. An essential tool for catching meals, this pouch can hold up to 2.42 gallons which contrasts sharply with its stomach’s smaller 0.84-gallon capacity. 

This size disparity might just have been the muse for poet Dixon Lanier Merritt’s famed limerick, believed to have been inspired by the quirky feeding habits of the pelican species:

“A gorgeous bird is the pelican, Whose beak will hold more than his bellican!“

Ideal Habitat for Brown Pelicans

Brown pelican habitats comprise the Atlantic coast, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Pacific coast. Outside of the breeding season, the Pacific population’s range extends all the way up to Washington and southern British Columbia in the north, and down to northern Peru in the south. Year-round resident populations of Pacific brown pelicans can be spotted from southern California and Mexico to Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama.

Nesting Sites

These marine birds often establish colonies off the mainland, usually on rocky islands close to shore. The reason the brown pelicans choose these islands as their nesting sites is they are better protected from predators on these mostly uninhabited islands. 

Brown pelicans build their nests anywhere from level ground to rocky outcrops and sea-facing cliffs depending on the local geography. When nesting on the mainland, these pelicans have been observed to build nests in trees and shrubs to deter predators and nest invaders.

Fishing Spots

They dedicate much of their time to pursuing schools of fish. Despite their strong swimming abilities, these birds tend to stay close to shore, avoiding deep, open waters. Their fishing excursions typically remain within four or five miles of land so they don’t stray too far from familiar coasts. As a result, they set up their colonies in areas where large schools of their preferred fish swim close to shore.

What Do Brown Pelicans Eat?

Like its pelican relatives, this member of the Pelecanidae family primarily subsists on fish, making it a classic piscivore. Yet, this particular species employs techniques distinct from its cousins. 

Diet

When it comes to their preferred cuisine, brown pelicans gravitate towards schooling fish. Depending on where they reside, their main courses might consist of anchovies, sardines, or mackerel. Other regular meals for these birds include menhaden, herring, and mullet, showcasing the variety of their aquatic diet.

Like all other pelican species, the brown pelican is piscivorous, mainly surviving on a diet of fish. However, unlike its fellow pelicans, brown pelicans employ some unique tactics that set them apart from other species. In some cases, they will even eat crustaceans and prawns. There are also freak incidents of brown pelicans eating the young or eggs of other bird species with whom they share their range and even cannibalizing nestlings in their own colony!

Hunting Methods

Unlike most of its pelican kin, the brown pelican employs a dramatic plunge-diving technique to seize its prey. From a lofty position of 60 to 70 feet above the water, the bird scans the surface below. Once a school of fish swims near the top, the pelican dives with precision, mimicking the hunting style of smaller birds like kingfishers. This unique approach sets it apart, allowing the brown pelican to strike efficiently while in flight.

The impact of the pelican’s body hitting the surface stuns the fish, which the pelican then scoops up in its throat pouch before flying away. Only the Peruvian pelican, the closest relative of the brown pelican, uses a similar hunting method.

This hunting style means that pelicans must frequently rely on the efforts of other marine predators, such as sharks, dolphins, and predatory fish. These animals usually pursue schools of fish from the depths toward the surface, creating an opportunity for the brown pelican to employ its signature tactics.

On occasions where the water is either too shallow or too murky for the brown pelicans to successfully plunge-dive, they revert to methods used by other pelicans, sitting on the water’s surface and scooping fish up in their large bills. 

How To Identify Brown Pelicans

Together with the Peruvian pelican, the brown pelican breaks away from the typical white-feathered look common to its pelican relatives. It derives its name from its distinctive gray-brown coat, which morphs in shade as the bird ages. This evolving coloration sets these birds apart, marking them with a uniqueness unmatched by the more uniformly white-plumaged pelicans.

Newly hatched nestlings have downy feathers and are born blind. As they reach the juvenile stage, they develop a coat of entirely brown feathers. Adults tend to have gray-brown bodies, yellow heads, and white necks. During the breeding season, the neck feathers change their colors to chestnut brown while bright red patches develop on the throat pouch and bill.

Though it is the smallest of all pelicans, it’s still a large bird—typically one of the largest in its marine habitats. The brown pelican stands between 45 and 54 inches tall and has a wingspan of over 90 inches. Their large, powerful wings allow them to glide over the sea for long distances, powered by occasional wingbeats. 

Brown Pelican Male vs Female

The main differences in brown pelicans’ appearances can be noted between juveniles, non-breeding adults, and breeding adults. The species doesn’t display much sexual dimorphism, with the exception of males being slightly larger than females. Therefore, it’s difficult to point out brown pelicans’ male vs female characteristics that allow observers to guess the sex of the bird.

Threats To Brown Pelicans

Until 2009, brown pelicans were on the endangered list. Focused conservation efforts, like banning harmful pesticides and creating protected areas, resulted in a turnaround in their dwindling populations. Today, they are listed as “Least Concern” by IUCN. Still, pelicans are at risk from human activity. They get tangled in fishing lines and drown in oil spills. Overfishing can also deprive them of their natural food sources.You can help brown pelican conservation efforts by contributing to organizations like Paso Pacifico, an organization that preserves wildlife corridors within the pelicans’ range. Our efforts provide these magnificent birds a safe habitat to rear their future generations.

Native to America—particularly the US-Mexico land borders and southern Argentina—ocelots are shy and elusive wildcats that are facing threats due to the disturbance of their habitats. 

The Paso Pacifico team is working with local communities and landowners in Central and South America to secure core habitats. We believe giving them an optimal place to hunt, reproduce, and rear their offspring requires an integrative approach.

Various factors contribute to the fragmentation of ocelot natural habitats. As a result, their numbers are declining. Before we discuss their threats, let’s first understand these awesome wildcats and where they live.  

Wildcat Wonder

Here are some interesting facts about the ocelot, otherwise known as the Leopardus pardalis. 

“Dwarf Leopards”

Ocelots’ spotted coats and wildcat-like appearances are similar to leopards but ocelots are smaller. They are only twice as large as a regular house cat. Their closest relative is the margay (Leopardus wiedii) which they resemble though they are still visibly smaller. 

The average ocelot size ranges from 16 to 19 inches at the shoulders and their weights are between 15.4 and 34 lbs. Despite their modest size, they have superior agility and eyesight, making them able hunters in the animal kingdom. 

They Have a Diverse Diet

They are carnivores and skilled hunters, pouncing on various prey from fish to birds and other land animals in between like small mammals, rabbits, lizards, and rodents. They have fangs and sharp rear teeth that allow them to tear and swallow their food whole instead of chewing them down.

Ocelots Can Climb and Swim

Ocelots are capable of climbing trees and navigating through waters for food. Their webbed feet and strong auditory senses allow them to swim comfortably while hearing sound waves and catching fish with ease.

These Animals Are Nocturnal, Solitary Creatures

Ocelots are nocturnal and elusive. They prefer living alone except when they’re mating and rearing offspring. While some can be found in villages or towns, their populations thrive in dense forests and shrublands, making their territories to protect them. They live about 7 to 10 years. 

Ocelots Were Depicted in Aztec Culture

Ocelots figure in many ancient Aztec cultures and arts. They were even revered for their hunting ability and physical attributes.  

Each Has a Unique Coat Pattern

Each ocelot has its own unique rosette coat pattern and long-ringed tail. Unfortunately, their exquisite fine fur makes them a target for hunters who sell their furs in the black market as fashion and accessories. 

Ocelot and the Jaguarundi

Like ocelots, jaguarundis are native to southern Texas, and Central and South America. They are also endangered. Both occupy grasslands, dry scrub, swamp and savannah woodland, and dense forests.  

Jaguarundis or Herpailurus yaguarondi have small flat heads, slender elongated bodies, and short legs. They have long, tapered tails and short, uniform-colored coats that come in three shades: black, brownish gray, and reddish brown. Their eyes are small and closely set. 

One interesting fact about jaguarundis is their special ability to make thirteen distinct sounds when they communicate. They can whistle and even chirp like a bird. 

Compared to ocelots, jaguarundis are smaller at 7.7 to 20 lbs. Because of their shared preference for forest edges, jaguarundis are forced out of protected areas whenever ocelots inhabit them for fear of falling prey to the bigger wildcat. 

Unlike the nocturnal ocelots, jaguarundis are active during the day, making them more visible than other nocturnal wildcats. They can usually be seen foraging in pairs. They eat small mammals, birds, and reptiles but also feed on fallen fruits.  

What the Ocelot Habitat Map Looks Like

The ocelot native habitat encompasses the rainforests of Central and South America. These include mangroves, tropical forests, marshes, and even thorn scrub lands in arid and semi-arid regions. 

They are considered endangered in the U.S. due to their dwindling numbers. Their population in Texas is particularly small with only 80 to 120 ocelots remaining. 

There are more ocelots in southern Mexico, northern Argentina, and other parts of Central America but their habitat needs to be proactively conserved to prevent them from disappearing.

Their survival relies on the preservation of canopy covers and lands as they depend on them for hunting, protection, denning, mating, and raising their young. 

Reasons for Ocelot Population Decline 

The decline in the ocelot population is rooted in the fragmentation of their native habitats. 

Habitat Fragmentation and Destruction

According to a university thesis, the biggest threat to ocelots is habitat destruction. Large dense forests in South America are being converted into cropland and pastures.

Areas that are left can become so fragmented that even small patches are unable to sustain their long-term survival. Ocelots are then forced to disperse and move towards unprotected areas, further threatening their existence. 

Starvation

Due to habitat fragmentation, ocelots are less capable of hunting for food. They also have to compete with humans hunting prey like rabbits and birds, leading to a reduction in food sources. 

Diseases

With less sustenance, ocelots become prone to illnesses. Disease outbreaks among ocelots and their prey also results in early death. 

Road Accidents

Forced out of fragmented forest patches due to the insufficiency of food sources, ocelots pass through roads and accidentally get hit by vehicles. 

Inbreeding 

Because of their fragmented habitat, ocelots are prone to inbreeding which reduces their genetic diversity. This results in a weaker genetic pool compared to interbreeding. 

Recovery Efforts

Various wildlife and environmental conservation organizations, including local landowners, have tried to address the diminishing population of ocelots. Some of the measures undertaken include:

Education

Organizations are conducting research and offering education to local communities about the needs of ocelots. This includes studying and disseminating information about land management options, their biology, and behaviors.  Once people understand the urgency of the situation and how they can help, they become better positioned to protect these creatures and their native environments. 

At Paso Pacifico, our Junior Rangers Program teaches children ages 8 to 13 the principles of biology, ecology, and environmental citizenship through classroom training, experiential field trips, and community service projects. It is important to raise a young generation that knows the importance of safeguarding wildlife habitats and biodiversity. 

Revegetation

Re-greening previously cleared habitats like rainforests and shrub lands helps rebuild a protected environment where free ranging ocelots can safely roam and multiply. By planting native trees and shrubs to build wildlife corridors that connect fragmented forests and scrub land patches, we are able to provide them with an environment conducive to their natural way of life.  

Government Policies

Governments should be encouraged to adopt policies that preserve ocelot populations and the places where they live. This entails introducing legislation that regulates the fur trade, prohibiting them from being sold as pets, and implementing sanctions when their habitats are destroyed.

Protect Ocelot Habitats With Paso Pacifico

Paso Pacifico enacts integrative, sustainable and long-term solutions that consider the ecological, economic, and social aspects of ocelot habitat degradation. By educating and involving local communities, our mission becomes a shared responsibility that reaps better and more widespread results.   

Our commitment to restore and protect the Pacific Slope ecosystems of Mesoamerica is essentially a community-based approach that addresses the growing problems of wildlife habitat degradation. You can help us build new wildlife corridors and increase the population of endangered species by volunteering or donating to our organization. 

Together, we can offer ocelots and other at-risk wildlife species a chance to survive and thrive. 

The gray fox is not as ubiquitous as other fox species as they veer away from urban areas and are hard to spot in the wild. Their salt and pepper color allows them to blend with nature and avoid people. A bit stockier and more agile than the red fox, gray foxes’ total length range is 31 to 47 inches with weights of around 6 to 15 lbs. 

They are nocturnal animals that may come out during the day to forage and find food. If you’re lucky, you can catch sight of them during these times but don’t expect them to warm up to you as they will likely flee and see you as a threat to their safety.

As an admirer of the species, Paso Pacifico is working hard to preserve the wildlife corridors in Central America where gray foxes live. We encourage you to learn more about these fascinating creatures and how you can help preserve them, including the biodiversity they represent.

Their Origin

Gray foxes are an ancient species that originated in North America millions of years ago. These animals dispersed across America as they evolved and adapted to changing environments. They belong to the Canidae family which dates back to the Oligocene and Miocene periods. Today, these canids are mostly found in North and Central America, including some parts of South America.

Is a Gray Fox a Cat?

Let’s clarify this popular misconception. Like a cat, the gray fox climbs trees, enjoys the same prey, and grows to a similar size but it is not a cat. It is a Canidae, the same family as dogs. 

Their scientific name is Urocyon cinereoargenteus. Gray foxes are sometimes referred to as dog foxes or cat foxes but they are true foxes. They only share a few traits with these animals.

The Special Qualities of Gray Foxes

What makes the gray fox so special? Here are a few distinguishing qualities:

Their Coats Are Not Entirely Gray 

Despite the name, a close look would reveal that these foxes are a combination of rust, black, and white. Their tails are bushy with black stripes on top and at the tips. 

Gray Foxes’ Pupils Are Oval-Shaped

While most foxes have vertical slit-shaped pupils, gray foxes’ pupils are oval. Upon closer examination, you’ll notice the thin, black stripes from the corner of their eyes extending to the sides of their heads. 

These Canids Can Climb Trees 

The gray fox is one of two canids that can climb trees. The other fox with this ability is the East Asian raccoon dog. This makes them stand out from other members of the Canidae family—a group composed of 14 members and 34 species like coyotes, dogs, jackals, and wolves. 

They Have Semi-Retractable Claws

Gray foxes can partially extend their claws, giving them strong grips and excellent traction while ascending trees. They use their front claws to push against and climb up tunks while their rear claws offer support, weight distribution, and stability.  

These Foxes Have Rotating Forearms

The Urocyon cinereoargenteus can rotate its wrists, making it more agile as it climbs trees and moves between branches. Its flexible wrists also enhance foraging, giving it an advantage in sustenance and survival. 

Gray Foxes Make Various Sounds

From soft purring to guttural growling, gray foxes have various ways of expressing themselves. They usually make high-pitched barks when communicating or raising an alarm. They also growl when there’s a threat, whimper when they are distressed, and yip when they want to attract mates. 

Dog Foxes Have a Penchant for Seclusion

Gray foxes are not socially savvy. The need to forage food draws them out of seclusion. They prefer being among the bushes and will only venture out if necessary. They are generally solitary, marking their territories spanning 1 to 2 miles on average. Additionally, these foxes connect with their fellow gray foxes only when mating and parenting their young. 

They Have a Flexible Diet

Depending on the season and what’s available out there, gray foxes are omnivores. They prey on small mammals like rodents and cotton-tail rabbits, insects, birds, and some amphibians like toads and small reptiles. They also love berries, other fruits, nuts, seeds, and a wide range of insects like ants, crickets, and other crawlies.

These Nocturnal Animals Cache Their Food Supply

They cache food so they can have something during lean seasons. They dig a hole, bury their food, and mark it with their urine or scent glands for retrieval later. 

Where To Find Gray Foxes

These small lean animals love dense habitats like woodlands, grasslands, and bushlands but they’re also drawn to rocky canyons and ridges. They are abundant in North and Central America, surviving in temperate and semi-arid climates. 

You can find them across wide geographical territories including central and eastern Canada as well as northwestern and central western US states like Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and Venezuela. Gray foxes also reside in Colombia, the US Pacific Coast, and the region stretching between the Pacific Coast to the Atlantic and Caribbean oceans.

Reproductive Habits

Gray foxes’ mating season is around February to March. Pregnancy takes about 52 days. The average number of offspring per birth is 5 and the baby foxes start venturing from the den at about 4 weeks old. They are usually weaned for 10 weeks while the father gray fox steps in to provide food for the family.

Are Gray Foxes in Danger?

These small mammals sometimes attract hunters who are fascinated by their uniqueness and hunt them for their fur but their population is generally stable and not on the endangered list. Gray foxes are not really targeted for their fur as much as other fox species. 

However, according to recent reports, there are places like the Midwest United States—particularly Ohio, Illinois, and Indiana—that have seen a decline in gray fox sightings in the last four years. 

Possible Reasons for the Recent Decline

Wildlife experts from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources conducted research and found that a possible reason for the decline is the spread of canine distemper virus from raccoons and coyotes. They are known to interact with these animals and feed on the same carcasses. 

Another reason is competition according to the University of Massachusetts Amherst’s College of Natural Sciences Department of Environmental Conservation. The university reported that gray foxes are being harassed and killed by coyotes and bobcats for territorial protection. These factors are believed to contribute to the decline of gray fox sightings in recent years.

The Tree Cover Factor

Another study conducted by North Carolina State University in 2022 points to declining tree cover and its impact on interspecies interaction. Without enough tree cover, gray foxes avoid areas that coyotes have been using as their habitats. They also shifted to being active at night to avoid sharing habitats. 

The study is continuously being conducted through data collection by using tracking collars. By knowing more about their habitat use and range, behaviors, genetics, and other factors affecting their movement and mortality, researchers are hoping to identify and address the reason for the decline. 

Preventing extreme habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation is vital to gray fox protection. Regions, where their habitats are rapidly being converted for agricultural, residential, or industrial purposes, must be addressed before they become too problematic to manage.  

Protect Gray Foxes By Protecting Their Habitats

These beautiful creatures are a vital part of our world’s biodiversity. Deforestation and land conversions are threatening their homes so we urge you to join us in restoring and protecting wildlife corridors.

At Paso Pacifico, we utilize an integrative, iterative, and community-based approach. We work with local communities, landowners, and organizations in rural Central America to come up with effective and practical solutions. 

Two of our initiatives focus on securing core habitats and aiding forest regeneration through the Machete Project. These empower us to combat Mesoamerica’s high deforestation rates while keeping the habitats of gray foxes safe.

Help Paso Pacifico protect wildlife habitats while fostering a culture of preservation that positively impacts local communities. With your donations, we can preserve gray foxes and the other animals that share their homes.

Turtles are ancient reptiles with an average clutch size of 100 eggs—some go as high as 138. But survival is an uphill battle for the hatchlings. They face various obstacles, including anthropogenic (human) threats. 

The impacts of these threats are immense. Out of seven turtle species, six of them are classified as threatened and endangered. Since they’re keystone species that play a major role in marine ecosystems, it’s critical to reverse their population decline and ensure safe nesting environments.

You can also help Paso Pacifico save a nest by donating today!

What Do Turtle Eggs Look Like?

Turtle eggs typically look like ping-pong balls, though they can also be misshaped—slightly oblong or elongated. They’re soft but leathery which keeps them from breaking when they’re dropped in the egg cavity. 

Eggs have a bluish-white hue when they’re freshly laid. Within two days, however, they “chalk over,” taking on an opaque, cream-to-white shade. 

How Long Does it Take for Turtle Eggs to Hatch?

Sea turtles have an incubation period between 45 and 75 days. This varies across species, mainly due to the temperature and humidity in the nest.

Temperature also affects sexual differentiation. According to research, eggs that intubate below 81.86° Fahrenheit produce male offspring. Conversely, temperatures above 88.8° Fahrenheit increase the chances of female hatchlings. Temperatures between the two can result in an even mix of male and female turtle hatchlings.

With global temperatures on the rise, there is a risk of a skewed sex ratio. An Australian study found that 99% of turtles are now born female. It’s not a matter of grave concern at present. However, a couple of decades down the line, we may not have enough males left to fertilize the eggs.

What to Do When You Encounter Turtle Eggs on the Beach

Turtle eggs begin developing immediately after they are deposited in the nesting cavity. Any disturbance, accidental or otherwise, can affect the survival of hatchlings. Help them repopulate with these best practices:

Do: Leave it Alone 

It’s tempting to get a closer view of the turtle’s nesting habitat out of sheer curiosity. But human interference can greatly endanger their survival. 

So, if you see a track or stakes, keep your distance from the eggs. This due diligence is essential because turtles are a protected species. Even accidents with the nest can put you in the crosshairs of the law.

Do: Call the Local Wildlife 

Egg harvesting is illegal, but that hasn’t deterred people on the Pacific Coast from collecting eggs for human consumption. If you find turtle eggs in an exposed nest on the beach, contact the state wildlife authority immediately. They will track and monitor the nest to help conserve the species. 

Do: Keep the Area Clear 

Avoid placing beach accessories like lounge chairs, umbrellas, and towels near a marked turtle nest. They can become obstacles for the hatchlings, keeping them from making their way to the ocean. To protect these delicate ecosystems, always maintain a distance of at least 5 feet.

Also, clean up food and other leftovers on the beach. Litter can attract unwanted pests like raccoons and dogs that may destroy the eggs.

Do: Fill the Holes 

Digging holes in the sand can be fun, but it’s not safe—not for you, and certainly not for the turtles. They can be unstable, causing them to collapse under pressure. Sand holes can trap turtles. If they aren’t filled, they can become hindrances that keep newborn hatchlings from emerging from their nests.

Don’t: Set Up a Nest Cover 

The smuggling of sea turtles has drastically increased, mainly because of culture. 

If you set up a protective enclosure, you could end up alerting poachers to the presence of turtle eggs. One study found that artificial covers can also make it easier for predatory mammals to locate the nest and devour its contents.

Don’t: Dig Up the Nest 

Digging a turtle’s nest can be harmful to the eggs and the hatchlings inside. It could cause movements in their original position. The change in orientation could result in the death of the developing turtle embryos.

In addition, it could lead to a premature release. This might push them into the predator-rich ocean before their bodies can develop properly. Keep in mind that you can’t keep baby turtles in a bucket. It depletes the energy reserves they need to navigate to deep waters.

Don’t: Touch the Eggs 

When it comes to sea turtle eggs, look, but don’t touch. Avoid handling turtle eggs with your hands as it could lead to the transmission of pathogens. A 2014 study established that experimental handling can affect development and lead to early-stage embryonic death. 

Research also suggests it can affect their ability to imprint on the geomagnetic signature of their natal area, affecting their return. 

Don’t: Shine a Bright Light 

These shelled creatures use the moon’s reflection on the water’s surface as a compass. Introducing another light source can confuse the baby turtles, making it more difficult for them to find their way into the water. 

Aside from disorienting newborn hatchlings, artificial light also reduces nesting success. Studies show it also stimulates the activity of predators like ghost crabs, making them even more susceptible to being eaten.

So, when you come across turtle eggs, keep your camera’s flash turned off. If your home is close to the shore, close the drapes and blinds.

In Which Pacific Coast Countries Can Turtle Eggs Be Found?

Several countries on the Pacific Coast have turtle nesting sites. Some of the most productive nesting grounds are in Nicaragua and El Salvador.

Nicaragua 

Of the seven living species found on Earth, some 120,000 turtles from five species lay eggs on Nicaragua’s coast—mainly on the beaches of La Flor and Chacocente. Among them are olive ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) and the leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea).

Nesting mamas bring new generations to life under the watchful eyes of an army troop. The goal is to prevent nearby communities from stealing the eggs which are considered a local delicacy.

Though it feels extreme, this initiative is essential after the 2018 fiasco. Around 2,000 sea turtle nests were raided by residents around the La Flor Wildlife Refuge following a national political crisis. They also intercepted shore-bound turtles, killing at least six of them.

El Salvador 

El Salvador has many nesting sites, including Montecristo Island, Jiquilisco Bay, Los Cóbanos, and Punta Amapala. The country has established a sanctuary for a range of turtle species, such as green, leatherback, and olive ridley turtles. 

It is also home to the critically endangered hawksbill and accounts for 90% of the nesting activities in the eastern Pacific, alongside Nicaragua.

However, a high demand for turtle shells has pushed these delicate creatures to the brink of extinction. Ensure their survival by supporting Paso Pacifico’s marine conservation efforts.

Make a Difference With Paso Pacifico

Sea turtle populations are declining. Paso Pacifico is working to put an end to illegal trade through the InvestEGGator. This GPS-GSM tracking device mimics the look and feel of real sea turtle eggs. When placed into turtle nests, it can remain undiscovered, providing us with real-time maps of the poachers’ routes.

We also offer round-the-clock protection in an important nesting site in Nicaragua. Our rangers have protected 50,000 turtle eggs to date! Help us amplify our efforts by donating to our July fundraising campaign.

Many people have trouble telling american crocodiles apart from alligators, especially when comparing the American crocodile vs American alligator in terms of their appearance and behavior. These cold-blooded behemoths look similar but several defining characteristics separate the two.

Join Paco Pacifico as we explore the difference between the American crocodile vs alligator. We’ll also provide insights into how wildlife corridors, like the one at Paso del Istmo, play a key role in their survival.

Can Alligators and Crocodiles Occupy the Same Habitats?

Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) belong to the suborder Eusuchia in the reptile family Crocodylidae, the same as crocodiles (Crocodylus acutus). 

Though not friendly, these ancient behemoths can live sympatrically if they’re of similar sizes — living in large areas with an abundance of food. 

For example, alligators and crocodiles are frequently seen swimming across the impressive Río San Juan. Some reports also evidence rare sightings of these majestic beasts in another region of Nicaragua: Jinotega.

They also co-exist in Barra de Santiago, in the western region of El Salvador. One of the largest mangrove complexes in Central America, it provides a habitat to an impressive range of wildlife, including alligators and crocodiles.

American Crocodile vs Alligator: Main Characteristics 

Here’s how you can tell the alligator from the American crocodile:

Behavior 

Crocodiles are generally considered more aggressive than alligators, but this isn’t the case with crocodiles in America. 

Unlike their man-eating cousins found in other parts of the world, they’re shy, reclusive, secretive, and rarely attack humans. In fact, when a crocodile basking under the sun is startled, they’ll quickly and noisily enter the water.

That doesn’t mean they can’t be dangerous, so keep your distance!

Similarly, alligators exhibit a fear of humans and will retreat when approached. However, they can and will attack if provoked, which can be particularly scary as they can sprint as fast as 35 miles per hour.

Diet

American crocodiles primarily eat fish, though their diet also includes small mammals, birds, crustaceans, frogs, and turtles. They’ll wait for their meal to get close before ambushing and suppressing it with their massive jaws.

Alligators have similar dietary preferences but they are opportunistic feeders. They’re flexible and will eat whatever is abundant and easily available.

Color

American crocodiles have grayish-green colors with pale white to yellowish undersides. Adult alligators, on the other hand, are the darkest colored of all living crocodilians. When considering the differences, one might ask, what colour is an alligator? Adults typically have a dark gray or black hue while juveniles have yellow bands on their sides for camouflage. In contrast, if you’re wondering, “what is the color of a crocodile?” you’ll find they exhibit grayish-green shades.

Size 

Male adult alligators can grow to over 11 feet and weigh up to 790 pounds. However, exceptionally large specimens can weigh nearly half a ton or 1,000 pounds. Females are smaller, rarely exceeding 8 feet and 6 inches while weighing up to 201 pounds.

In contrast, Crocodylus acutus are significantly larger. Males have an overall length of 20 feet and weigh up to 1,102 pounds. Large adults have been known to exceed 2,200 pounds. Similar to gators and other crocodile species, females are smaller. They reach a maximum length of 12 feet 6 inches and weigh up to 381 pounds.

Snout 

The American crocodile has a v-shaped snout, with sharp, interlocking teeth delivering some of the strongest bites in the animal kingdom at 2,980 pounds per square inch. In contrast, the opportunistic alligator has a long, rounded snout, with the upper jaw jutting out when shut. 

Habitat 

American crocodiles inhabit coastal, brackish, or saltwater areas. They are found in coves, creeks, and ponds in Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, Southern Florida, Mexico, and along the Central American coast south of Venezuela.

Meanwhile, alligators live along the edges of slow-moving freshwater rivers, lakes, marshes, and swamps. You’ll find them in the southeastern states from Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi to North and South Carolina.

The main reason for their unique distribution is the lingual salt glands on crocodiles’ tongues. This physiological feature enables them to eliminate excess salt from their bodies, making them more adaptable to salty marine environments. 

Alligators also possess this gland; however, it is not as efficient. Alligators thus have a lower tolerance for saltwater and prefer freshwater areas like marshes and lakes.

Differences in Population

While population data is limited, experts estimate there are about 1,000-2,000 crocodiles across Central and South America and Mexico. 

Previously hunted for its hide, these beasts now serve as a prime example of conservation success. For example, a 2015 piece shows that their population has gone from five to a staggering 200+ in the Barra de Santiago nature reserve. However, they still remain under the U.S. Endangered Species Act.

In contrast, alligators are a rare sight in Mesoamerica. 

The Rio Grande American alligator is not native to the region, but you can find them in areas adjacent to the Texas border. They might make their home base in the Gulf Coast Prairies and the Mexican Marshes in Mexico. If you’re lucky, you can also sneak a peek at their relative, the caiman, in Guatemala.

Why Do American Crocodile Populations Remain Low?

Here are the biggest dangers threatening the existence of crocodiles:

Habitat Loss 

The primary factors affecting this ancient species’ decline are overexploitation and the loss of nesting habitats within its range. 

These are mainly caused by human development as civilizations make room for urban and rural populations. 

Thanks to conservation efforts, there are more crocodiles today than 5 decades ago. However, this is limited to artificial substrates and human-made habitats. In El Salvador, they live in reservoirs in freshwater areas and brackish coastal habitats in saltwater sections of rivers, coastal lagoons, and swamps.

In El Salvador, you may find them in freshwater environments like ponds, rivers, coves, creeks, and lakes.

Predation 

Crocodiles are apex predators, meaning they occupy the top of the food chain. However, they are illegally hunted by humans for their hide, which is used to manufacture luxury items like handbags and belts. 

If you come across crocodile traffickers, you can work with non-governmental organizations. Join them as they urge governments to impose stricter measures against the illegal trade of wildlife parts and products.

In addition, hatchlings and eggs are killed and consumed by winged predators like herons, invertebrates, fishes, reptiles, and mammals. The mother crocodile protects them and drives intruders away by staying near their nests.

Hydrologic Conditions

Crocodylus acutus are sensitive to environmental changes. Hydrological alterations—which are closely linked to feeding opportunities—impact crocodile distribution, relative abundance, nesting, growth, and survival. 

In El Salvador, especially in Cara Sucia – San Pedro, springs and wetlands are drying up — and it has been linked to saline intrusion into coastal aquifers, among other factors. And this stands across the Pacific coast and in the Estero Real, and reports show that surface water is becoming brackish to saline because of saltwater intrusion and tidal effects. 

This could lower the hatching survival rate, probably because nursery habitats with low salinity are often miles away.

The good news is long-term monitoring shows nesting responds positively to improved freshwater flow, which can increase their density.

The Loss of Crocodilians Has Devastating Consequences

The American crocodile is a flagship species. They control the growth of some overpopulated prey species, keep land animals from using up limited water supplies during the dry periods, and inhibit the encroachment of aquatic plants in these ecosystems, making them extremely important for maintaining the balance of aquatic ecosystems.

They also create shelter for other species by prolific burrowing. 

A study showed that if these endangered species are not well protected, we stand to lose up to 38% of the unique and diverse ecological functions they provide for wider ecosystems. This can have cascading disruptions through the food chain, making it even more important to implement conservation efforts.

Make a Difference With Paso Pacifico

We are seeing an increase in crocodiles in the mangroves of Pacific Central America, but that does not mean our conservation efforts should take a backseat. As crocodiles can undertake long-distance journeys, it’s become important to protect all their potential habitats for maximum benefits.

And that’s where we could use your help.With your generous donations, we can protect endangered species and connect ecosystems from land to sea. We work with local communities to reinforce essential wildlife corridors in the Pacific Slope of MesoAmerica, ensuring the threatened animals are never driven away from their homes.

Trogons — from the same bird family as the quetzals — have a brilliant plumage with contrasting colors, which makes them popular with birdwatchers. 

Popular among birdwatchers, trogons are known for their brilliant plumage with contrasting colors. Like other tropical birds, this non-migratory species can stay perfectly still to survive, making them difficult to spot.

Though trogons have been around for millions of years, their populations are dwindling. Learn more about this unique bird, the threats it faces, and Paso Pacifico’s conservation efforts.

A Brief Background on Trogons

Trogon, Greek for “nibbling,” are birds that belong to the family Trogonidae in the order Trogoniformes. Around 43 bird species comprise the Trogonidae family. 

The African genus Apaloderma includes 3 species. Meanwhile, Southeast Asia is home to 12 species, divided between Harpactes and Apalharpactes. The greatest diversity is in the Neotropics, with 28 species across 4 genera. 

Fascinating Facts About Trogons 

Here are some interesting facts about this remarkable bird:

Trogons Are an Ancient Species

Geologically speaking, trogons originated about 23 million years ago. 

However, fossil records indicate they’re even older, suggesting these birds go as far back as the early Eocene period. Experts theorize they first appeared in the Northern Hemisphere and moved towards the equator during the Cenozoic period as climatic and environmental conditions changed.

They Can Cling to Trees Vertically 

The heterodactyl behavior is exclusive to the Trogonidae. Trogons cling vertically to trees by positioning their first two toes backward while the third and fourth face forward. This is an extremely useful ability since trogons love gnawing on dead trees while making nest cavities.

These Birds Aren’t Migratory 

While their move from the Northern Hemisphere to the Equator must have been part of a survival strategy for the species , Trogons are generally not migratory. However, certain species undertake partial local movements. 

Trogons have the lowest leg muscle-to-body ratio of any bird at only 3%, making them inefficient flyers. Hence, these ornithic creatures permanently occupy the forests within their range. 

However, they don’t let their short legs and weak feet keep them from traveling short distances or moving to lower elevations for fruiting events.

Trogons Have Distinct Physical Characteristics 

Trogons have brilliant plumage though the males are more eye-catching than the females which is often the case in the avian kingdom. They have broad, serrated bills that allow them to swallow their food whole. They also have small, weak legs and long tails.

These Avians Are Residents of Tropical Forests 

Trogons live in the tropical forests of Central and Southern Africa, Southeast Asia as well as North and South America. Some birds from the Trogon family, like the resplendent quetzal, are found in Central America and Southern Mexico.

They primarily inhabit rainforests and woodlands. Most live in the tropics and subtropics, scattered in the lower-to-middle elevations of forests.

These Tropical Inhabitants Feed on Insects and Fruits 

Trogons of the African species feed on a variety of insects: caterpillars, cicadas, crickets, beetles, adult butterflies, dragonflies, walking sticks, moths, and various orthopterans. This diet could be responsible for the unusually foul odor detected in their flesh and feces. They also ingest small vertebrates (animals with spines or backbones) like anoles, frogs, and lizards.

Species in Asia and America include fruits in their diets. 

They’re the Ventriloquists of the Animal Kingdom

These feathered animals have an uncanny ability to produce sounds without moving their beaks. It’s thus difficult to recognize the sounds they emit, prompting bird lovers to describe them as the ventriloquists of the animal kingdom. 

Trogons Are Seed Dispersers 

These fruit-eating avians are seed dispersers which is fundamental for the conservation of biodiversity. However, research shows they aren’t very good at it since they only travel short distances. 

All things considered, trogons are essential for diversity and addressing the declining global forest area. In the last 60 years, forests have shrunk by over 60% and 81.7 million hectares have been lost.

These Winged Creatures Are Loyal To Their Mates

The “nibbling” tropical species are monogamous, but they don’t remain in pairs throughout the year. 

During the breeding season, many trogon species gather in mixed-gender calling assemblages and show a strong territorial nature. This typically takes place in the dry season when food is more abundant. However, their phenology is extremely variable and nests are seen during spring and summer.

Both Parents Care for Their Offspring

Both parents care for their offspring, with the female keeping watch during the night. Their chicks mainly survive on insects swallowed whole or regurgitated (food that has been swallowed is brought back into the mouth).

They Are Ancient Symbols of Power and Status

Trogons were captured for their feathers but rarely killed.Feathers from this bird family—particularly the male quetzal—was seen as a symbol of power and status in Aztec culture and literature. The rulers used brightly colored feathers arranged in a semicircle for their headdresses.

Trogons in Peril

Ten trogon species were classified as “Near Threatened” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in its 2002 Red List.

These include:

• Baird’s trogon (T. bairdii)
• Diard’s trogon (Harpactes diardii)
• Whitehead’s trogon (H. whiteheadi)
• The Resplendent quetzal (P. mocinno)
• The Cinnamon-rumped trogon (H. orrhophaeus) 
• The Eared trogon (Euptilotis neoxenus) 
• The Hispaniolan trogon (Temnotrogon roseigaster)
• The Red-naped trogon (H. kasumba)
• The Scarlet-rumped trogon (H. duvaucelii)
• Ward’s trogon (H. wardi)

Sadly, the dangers they face are mostly caused by humans.

Threats to Their Survival 

Trogons are considered biological indicators of forest integrity. They facilitate the presence of a variety of other species by creating necessary nest cavities (hollow areas), most of which are in arboreal termitaria. 

Unfortunately, Trogonidae populations have declined across the world because of:

Illegal Aviculture Trade 

The beautiful and elaborate plumages of the trogon have put them at a notable disadvantage. The trapping of exotic birds has increased dramatically, exacerbating forest destruction. 

Habitat Destruction  

Trogons build nests in arboreal termitaria and decaying palm trees. As a forest-dependent species, it is affected by habitat fragmentation due to old-growth trees being cut down at an alarming rate. The human-driven disturbance seriously affects the number of suitable nesting locations. 

These factors have forced the species’ confinement to smaller areas.

The Resplendent Quetzal, a member of the Trogonidae family, has been restricted to ranges from Chiapas to Panama at elevations above 1,500 yards. Since they depend on trees in primary cloud forests, they are undergoing a “moderately rapid population decline” due to habitat destruction.

Drawdown

The drawdown of water tables is another threat to the survival of the trogon. As groundwater levels fall sharply around the world, riparian vegetation in these areas can be gravely affected. These are the primary areas where trogons build their nests.

Preserve the Trogon’s Habitats With Paso Pacifico

In addition to population declines from poor reproductive success, trogons face rampant habitat loss. This has affected 76% of the species, including quetzals, often dubbed as the most beautiful birds in the world.

The vibrantly colored birds are found from Southern Mexico to Costa Rica and Guatemala. They were described as rare and endangered in 1969. Unfortunately, the situation hasn’t improved. One of the subspecies, the resplendent quetzal, is on the NABCI’s Watch List as a species of high conservation concern.

Paso Pacifico understands the urgency of their plight and is committed to making a difference.

Our efforts started in Nicaragua, where we enlisted the help of the locals to build a corridor at Paso del Istmo. The Interoceanic Corridor extends to El Salvador, a small country in Central America, connecting numerous distinct ecosystems that serve as habitats to the black-headed trogons. 

But the effort can only continue with your generous support. Help us amplify our mission to restore and protect the Pacific Slope ecosystems of Mesoamerica by donating to Paso Pacifico.