tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67214564165269296452024-03-13T13:11:21.610-06:00Laguna de Apoyo, NicaraguaSpanish school, Research Station, Sustainable tourism, Ecotourism, Fish studies, Bird and other nature studies, Reforestation and Conservation Activities and Hostel in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, Nicaragua. Birdwatching, SCUBA diving, swimming, hiking, nature and wildlife watching. Hostel, great meals, great friends. Saving the planet and enjoying every minute of it!
www.gaianicaragua.org.
www.twitter.com/lagunaapoyoLaguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.comBlogger272125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-64788171792819676452017-11-26T13:51:00.001-06:002018-08-19T13:59:54.603-06:00CIAT visits Laguna de Apoyo<script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script>
<script>
(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({
google_ad_client: "ca-pub-0149454871231476",
enable_page_level_ads: true
});
</script>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Recently, the participants in a course organized by the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT, its initials in Spanish) visited <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estaci<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%;">ó</span>n Biol<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%;">ó</span>gica Laguna de Apoyo</a> to learn about land management in a protected area.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XVdloBMbSqk/Whr1VSRci9I/AAAAAAAAJow/TnB3h7_r0MsgtFkOPn7E4oxfSxx4HYLCACLcBGAs/s1600/ciat01janetcomp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="CIAT" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XVdloBMbSqk/Whr1VSRci9I/AAAAAAAAJow/TnB3h7_r0MsgtFkOPn7E4oxfSxx4HYLCACLcBGAs/s640/ciat01janetcomp.jpg" title="protected area " width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CIAT course members tour the native tree nursery managed by GAIA. Hundreds of trees are grown in the nursery and transplanted into reforestation plots to re-created natural forest in the Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. Photo Patricia Gómez.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Although most of their course dealt with the traditional problems facing poor farmers in the country, such as weather insecurity, labor, credit, and technical assistance, here the issues are shaped by the special aspects of the protected area. <i><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/gaia" target="_blank">GAIA</a></i> Director <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/jeffreymccrary" target="_blank">Jeffrey McCrary</a> discussed with them the legal and technical issues facing land management in the area. Masaya Department, where the northern half of the reserve is located, is highly populated, but is historically a very productive agricultural area, with yuca, beans, sesame, and even coffee in the area near the <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/lagunadeapoyo" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve</a>, in addition to the standard slate of smallholder crops which are often destined for personal use with excess production directed to the market, such as corn, plantains, and tree fruits.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VNMk15xbtg4/Whr1VWfV7ZI/AAAAAAAAJoo/AEpuichI4-IKha4pCb79CdC6du-Q4_wQgCLcBGAs/s1600/ciat02janetcomp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="protected area" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VNMk15xbtg4/Whr1VWfV7ZI/AAAAAAAAJoo/AEpuichI4-IKha4pCb79CdC6du-Q4_wQgCLcBGAs/s320/ciat02janetcomp.jpg" title="CIAT" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The classification of the lands inside Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve as part of the SINAP protected area system regulated by the Nicaraguan government, however, imposes overriding restrictions and prohibitions on several activities, among them agriculture. The area is dictated by a number of laws, regulations, and policies, which specifically prohibit agriculture, cutting plants, killing or capturing animals, and even building structures. Enforcing the policies has its own set of challenges, particularly because much of the land is in the hands of private landowners who wish to put houses on subdivided plots and sell them for profit. Even subdividing land is forbidden, as part of the Law 559.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mCaPBL9CpLM/Whr1V5PDoCI/AAAAAAAAJo0/JlgAu5vqE6IDy5L9-Y__Pvm1EngYBe-8QCLcBGAs/s1600/ciat4ps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Land management" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mCaPBL9CpLM/Whr1V5PDoCI/AAAAAAAAJo0/JlgAu5vqE6IDy5L9-Y__Pvm1EngYBe-8QCLcBGAs/s320/ciat4ps.jpg" title="protected area" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The management plan in effect in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, approved by decree in 2010, was produced by a team coordinated by <i>GAIA</i> director Jeffrey McCrary, who provided a brief review of the successes and failures of the plan since its implementation. Different interest groups were considered, such as mostly-foreign tourism business owners and vacation home owners, Nicaraguan renters on public land, the local community, and the community at large which includes all Nicaraguans, who have a voice in the way all natural areas are managed.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jZO0UAMXr5w/Whr1WKDKmcI/AAAAAAAAJo4/BokHZHYM_kIEQhkSp9_lg_b2__MU26dBwCLcBGAs/s1600/ciat7ps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="protected area" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jZO0UAMXr5w/Whr1WKDKmcI/AAAAAAAAJo4/BokHZHYM_kIEQhkSp9_lg_b2__MU26dBwCLcBGAs/s400/ciat7ps.jpg" title="land management" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Course members contemplate wild animal rescue and rehabilitation, another activity conducted by <i>GAIA</i> at Estación Biológica Laguna de Apoyo. Photo Pablo Somarriba.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The most important single element of Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve is the lake at the bottom of its crater. In it, several fish species have evolved; six currently recognized species are only found in this lake. The lake provides unequaled views from near and far, and watersports opportunities, as well as serving as the only habitat in nature for these six species of fish. Strict policies are necessary to ensure that the lake remain pristine and uncontaminated. Issues discussed included the constant introduction of garbage from visitors and from a set of bars managed by Nicaraguans on municipal property, and the scandalous introduction of hundreds of tires into the lake by a group of non-Nicaraguan scuba divers puporting to represent a non-profit organization. Although the introduction of tires is regarded as patently illegal, the Nicaraguan government has found the challenges behind stopping this practice greater than their technical capacity to enforce the law.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_SLtNKhcsp4/Whr1VefcASI/AAAAAAAAJos/BuTWTsoQnyYbiMmNmas6gwkCvgi8OqzRQCLcBGAs/s1600/ciat13ps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="protected area management" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_SLtNKhcsp4/Whr1VefcASI/AAAAAAAAJos/BuTWTsoQnyYbiMmNmas6gwkCvgi8OqzRQCLcBGAs/s400/ciat13ps.jpg" title="Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CIAT course participants enjoy views of Laguna de Apoyo and take selfies. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
W<span style="font-family: inherit;">e can make presentations for your group at Estaci<span style="font-size: 11pt;">ón Biol</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">ógica or elsewhere on environmental and development issues. GAIA works in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve and throughout the country. We have worked in every department in the country, and most of the 78 nationally recognized protected areas. Contact us by clicking on the "escudo" below to let us know how we can help you. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="course" border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9RNA6kL43fI/WVhpmGUQIpI/AAAAAAAAJZQ/iM87ymvDUykqAFou4ABZfHt5QqBi6luZACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="Estación Biológica Laguna de Apoyo" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span id="goog_1943397266"></span><span id="goog_1943397267"></span><br />
<br /></div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.5843515 -127.36097799999996 37.4597175 -44.743789999999962tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-68283101100582493182017-08-31T20:07:00.002-06:002018-08-19T14:02:36.879-06:00Charles Darwin en Nicaragua<script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script>
<script>
(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({
google_ad_client: "ca-pub-0149454871231476",
enable_page_level_ads: true
});
</script>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Durante aproximadamente un siglo, las ideas de Charles Darwin sobre la selección de pareja como un motor hacia el desarrollo de especies nuevas, fueron efectivamente desvaloradas dentro del Reino Animalia. Es difícil encontrar un caso donde es probable que dos especies se formaron dentro de una, en una sola población, con sus miembros en permanente contacto. Mientras siempre ha existido la idea que la selección de pareja puede ser un factor importante en el desarrollo de una especie nueva, en la gran mayoría de los casos, es poco probable que no hubiera otro factor, como una barrera geográfica, en la historia del desarrollo de las especies, en particular con animales vertebrados.<br />
<br />
El tipo de formación de dos especies de una población de una sola especie, a través de la selección de pareja, es llamado especiación simpátrica. Sin embargo, el caso de la especiación entre un grupo de peces en las aguas de Lago Cocibolca (Lago Nicaragua) y las lagunas cratéricas alrededor, ha sido fundamental en el regreso de este concepto. El grupo de peces lleva el nombre "mojarra" en Nicaragua, y son varias especies, algunas descritas y otras no, del genero <i><a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2011/12/amphilophus-chancho.html" target="_blank">Amphilophus</a></i>.<br />
<br />
El tiempo de existencia de las lagunas cratéricas de Nicaragua varía entre unos diez mil y cien mil años, relativamente poco para los procesos de evolución típicos que forman especies nuevas. A pesar de su relativamente reducido tiempo de existencia en esas lagunas, se ha comprobado que procesos rápidos de evolución han sucedido en varias lagunas, a través de estudios morphológicos en Xiloá y Apoyo, y estudios genéticos en varias lagunas. Las aguas de cada laguna son aisladas de otros cuerpos de <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2011/06/agua.html" target="_blank">agua</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e2iUdoMpfMQ/Wai94Dh-X6I/AAAAAAAAJnc/lwmJboT7l40DLWxxr34YT_M-s3OdtkOMgCLcBGAs/s1600/charaApoyo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="336" data-original-width="448" height="296" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e2iUdoMpfMQ/Wai94Dh-X6I/AAAAAAAAJnc/lwmJboT7l40DLWxxr34YT_M-s3OdtkOMgCLcBGAs/s400/charaApoyo.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Las mojarras se hacen pareja y se anidan dentro de la planta que se llama <em>Chara</em>, en la Laguna de Apoyo. Foto Topi Lehtonen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Un reportaje sobre los estudios ejecutados por <i><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/" target="_blank">GAIA</a></i> en las lagunas fue publicado esta semana en <a href="http://www.elnuevodiario.com.ni/nacionales/438445-pez-nicaragua-que-reafirma-teoria-evolucion-darwin/" target="_blank">El Nuevo Diario</a>, en el cual se mencionan las especies endémicas de este grupo ya identificadas y descritas, de las lagunas de Apoyo, Xiloá y Asososca Managua, y también se menciona un estudio en curso en la Laguna de Masaya, sitio reconocido en desahucio por su nivel de contaminación por basura y aguas residuales que entran en la laguna desde las ciudades aledañas.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-liGdfyWZWiY/Wai97tdWX5I/AAAAAAAAJng/dFPxq36r2gIfx4PaSzJdSY6JuTEXmYtrACLcBGAs/s1600/mojarraEND.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="900" height="232" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-liGdfyWZWiY/Wai97tdWX5I/AAAAAAAAJng/dFPxq36r2gIfx4PaSzJdSY6JuTEXmYtrACLcBGAs/s400/mojarraEND.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Del reportaje en El Nuevo Diario, 30 Agosto, 2017.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Para los científicos, además de que sean especies nuevas que en si tienen importancia, estas mojarras demuestran evidencia de haber sufrido procesos de especiación simpátrica durante el relativamente corto tiempo que habitan las lagunas cratéricas, por lo que sean de gran importancia como sujetos de estudio. Es una lástima que Charles Darwin nunca vino a Nicaragua, para que vea las mojarras que adornan a los lagos y las lagunas de Nicaragua. Si estuviera vivo hoy Charles Darwin, estaría en la Laguna de Apoyo, <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/scuba" target="_blank">buceando</a> con nosotros!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tkumdBdcbWk/Wai89X13_KI/AAAAAAAAJnQ/QSMJs2fg1LQK79dfdD8ASuYnVmF24BU_QCKgBGAs/s1600/tree%2Bnic.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="576" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tkumdBdcbWk/Wai89X13_KI/AAAAAAAAJnQ/QSMJs2fg1LQK79dfdD8ASuYnVmF24BU_QCKgBGAs/s640/tree%2Bnic.bmp" width="466" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">De Geiger, McCrary, y Schliewen, 2010.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TyPq2wiihiQ/Wai89R68M0I/AAAAAAAAJnQ/0T1WoPtxIrIAmGVDDXtNagNzGgJuZFhtQCKgBGAs/s1600/la%2Bprensa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="216" data-original-width="288" height="299" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TyPq2wiihiQ/Wai89R68M0I/AAAAAAAAJnQ/0T1WoPtxIrIAmGVDDXtNagNzGgJuZFhtQCKgBGAs/s400/la%2Bprensa.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estudios de campo en la Laguna de Apoyo. Foto Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EIWQ6c43Ass/Wai9U9tEr9I/AAAAAAAAJnU/rD7Awlr_pA8dvc_4n08pAM-qVRQap5MwwCKgBGAs/s1600/fish1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EIWQ6c43Ass/Wai9U9tEr9I/AAAAAAAAJnU/rD7Awlr_pA8dvc_4n08pAM-qVRQap5MwwCKgBGAs/s400/fish1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Los peces en la Laguna de Apoyo abundan entre estructuras rocosas. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UX2kb9vTydE/Wai9U3AIEKI/AAAAAAAAJnU/CC8EVxxtKd4W2JjC555cmC9z8GL9y_BmQCKgBGAs/s1600/escudo.bmp" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Oprime el escudo para contactarnos.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com1Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.717388499999998 -127.53675899999996 37.5927545 -44.568008999999961tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-58308908259312979172017-08-27T18:48:00.000-06:002017-08-27T18:48:03.234-06:00Another day at Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Every day brings something new to us at <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo</a>. Observations of flora and fauna, studies being conducted, <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/diving" target="_blank">scuba diving</a>, cultural activities. People teaching, and others learning, <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/spanish" target="_blank">Spanish</a>, culture, <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua%2C.org/education" target="_blank">biodiversity</a>, the environment, <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/volunteer" target="_blank">volunteering</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
New friends are made easily, because we are small and we share with people who visit. People come and go, from Nicaragua and beyond. Some to learn, others to give. Everyone ends up doing a little of both.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v6DlPClOvJw/WZTTNDGf9nI/AAAAAAAAJkw/SR0TmT0mMWgJp35CZer06rjGEdchBZ7PQCLcBGAs/s1600/_1120392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Laguna de Apoyo" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1023" height="296" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v6DlPClOvJw/WZTTNDGf9nI/AAAAAAAAJkw/SR0TmT0mMWgJp35CZer06rjGEdchBZ7PQCLcBGAs/s400/_1120392.jpg" title="Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bella, our faithful canine, hangs with the gang in front of Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo. Foto Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Estacion Biologica is not at all pretentious or upscale. We have a simple place, and we are doing simple things: planting trees, studying the environment, birdwatching, sharing our knowledge of the language and culture, and collaborating with the neighbors and the government of Nicaragua to make Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve a great place for nature, for decades to come. Our visitors are welcome to pitch in. Our prices are very low, but we are comfortable, and we eat very well! Special food options can always be arranged: gluten- or dairy-free, vegetarian, or vegan.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GA2CTp1fujE/WZTTNGHe9dI/AAAAAAAAJko/MJoneKb2d7g5hbqJtirLaSenqf5LfHPmgCLcBGAs/s1600/alex01andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GA2CTp1fujE/WZTTNGHe9dI/AAAAAAAAJko/MJoneKb2d7g5hbqJtirLaSenqf5LfHPmgCLcBGAs/s640/alex01andras.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how Spanish homework ends some evenings. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We are perhaps best known in some circles for the Spanish courses we offer, at <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2017/05/learning-spanish-in-laguna-de-apoyo.html" target="_blank">Apoyo Spanish School</a>. Each year, we impart at least one hundred fifty course units of a week each, custom-designed to fit the abilities and needs of each person. Our students are often travels who want to engage with locals better. Many, however, are learning Spanish for professional reasons, using their language skills in Nicaragua or other nearby countries in their jobs.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MDqaCdHLr5c/WZTTNFTLadI/AAAAAAAAJks/b2fAjc2qbqkvk3plDTlT4P8O6MxGfBaUACLcBGAs/s1600/apoyo01andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MDqaCdHLr5c/WZTTNFTLadI/AAAAAAAAJks/b2fAjc2qbqkvk3plDTlT4P8O6MxGfBaUACLcBGAs/s400/apoyo01andras.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early morning in Lake Apoyo, while clouds cover Pacaya, above the rim of the crater. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Undoubtedly, the best part of spending time at Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo is the lake. Mornings, the lake can be calm and smooth as glass, without a soul to be seen near the water. As the day progresses, however, locals and tourists may come for a dip. There is no water body anywhere that is as comfortable and naturally clean as <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/lagunadeapoyo" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo</a>, for a great swim. Visibility underwater during a scuba dive may be as much as 10 meters on a calm day.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-woYwNYwkXwA/WZTTQsTgBnI/AAAAAAAAJlA/upZIDMBLHnUC2LzaN9RZO-8-VPMvFKFTwCLcBGAs/s1600/apoyo01jkm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-woYwNYwkXwA/WZTTQsTgBnI/AAAAAAAAJlA/upZIDMBLHnUC2LzaN9RZO-8-VPMvFKFTwCLcBGAs/s400/apoyo01jkm.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All ages get involved when monkeys are to be seen. Everyone becomes a kid again! Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our property at Estacion Biologica is humble, but blessed with great trees and often with lovely wild animals. <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2017/07/golden-mantled-howler-monkeys-in-laguna.html" target="_blank">Golden-mantled howler monkeys</a>, known locally as <i>mono congo</i>, are over our heads these days, perhaps two hundred days each year. We thank effective conservation policies enacted as part of the management plan that our director, <a href="http://www.jeffreymccrary.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Jeffrey McCrary</a>, coordinated for the Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources. Several years ago, there were fewer monkeys and they were found in more limited locations than currently.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jfCVDcG8uwA/WZTTOHKsRkI/AAAAAAAAJk4/ZAEb9eVWt8IlWw1JK6CAW-PDfUjWI4_ggCLcBGAs/s1600/apoyo1andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jfCVDcG8uwA/WZTTOHKsRkI/AAAAAAAAJk4/ZAEb9eVWt8IlWw1JK6CAW-PDfUjWI4_ggCLcBGAs/s640/apoyo1andras.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apoyo Spanish School students gather for some extra tutoring from Bela. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Volunteers come to Estacion Biologica to participate in specific projects, or in whatever is most needed. One example is the Murrieta family, who recently spent a couple of weeks engaged in all kinds of environmental conservation activities, including the planting of 56 new trees in a reforestation plot in the hillside behind Estacion Biologica. The evenings were filled with discussions ranging from poetry and literature, to politics and saving the environment, to our favorite places in the many cities each of us had lived or visited.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aj4Ty1hfaaU/WZTTOiQgUCI/AAAAAAAAJk8/HnToXa01LGor0E9x2B18NJCbXkRt5UeLQCLcBGAs/s1600/apoyo2andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="960" height="296" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aj4Ty1hfaaU/WZTTOiQgUCI/AAAAAAAAJk8/HnToXa01LGor0E9x2B18NJCbXkRt5UeLQCLcBGAs/s400/apoyo2andras.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Visits to Estacion Biologica are often a family affair. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Each day at Estacion Biologica brings a new, unexpected blessing. The people in these photos are just a sampling of the blessings that have come our way in the most recent months. We are grateful for every hand lent and each voice raised. Please come by or <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">write us</a>!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-752YFHOZleU/WaNVDYtnQqI/AAAAAAAAJnA/4AujFFixfsA9OFMYUtmYdqN_R3bhKQxkQCKgBGAs/s1600/escudo.bmp" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.717388499999998 -127.53675899999996 37.5927545 -44.568008999999961tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-28058840351655231662017-08-26T15:48:00.000-06:002017-08-31T20:15:53.651-06:00Rescate Animal XXVI: Yuyu, la Cuyusa<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
El ser humano es igualmente capaz de hechos heroicos como de cobardías. Así fue algún hechor que dejó un animal silvestre indefenso, dado por muerto, en el bosque de la Reserva Natural Laguna de Apoyo.
<br />
<br />
El cuyuso, de nombre científico <em><a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2017/04/animal-rescue-xx-kinkajou.html" target="_blank">Potos flavus</a></em>, es un animal que no ataca ni al ser humano, ni a animales pequeños. Es nocturno y se alimenta principalmente de frutas, sin tener que bajarse a la tierra de los árboles. Por sus hábitos, es poco visto y mucha gente que vive en el campo no reconoce que la existencia del animal en el bosque cercano.<br />
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ej6YV0kxar0/WaHLRHpibxI/AAAAAAAAJmI/L3ftqdm45tooQFqN5Yu6yQMtWiweJ-iJgCLcBGAs/s1600/raquelmireya02compjkm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="2" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1023" height="296" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ej6YV0kxar0/WaHLRHpibxI/AAAAAAAAJmI/L3ftqdm45tooQFqN5Yu6yQMtWiweJ-iJgCLcBGAs/s400/raquelmireya02compjkm.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yuyu disfruta de un banano mientras sea admirada. Foto Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em><em></em></em></div>
Yuyu es una cuyusa, una hembra adulta, que vivía en los bosques de la Reserva Natural Laguna de Apoyo. Una mañana, ella fue encontrada por trabajadores en un hotel en la zona, en estado de salud grave. Fue víctima de una garroteada. Porque no hubo testigos, no sabemos quién fue el culpable, y solo podemos suponer sus motivos. Solo sabemos que el pobre animal agonizaba, incapaz de caminar. Los guardaparques del MARENA nos encomendó el animal. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6BgoCDzhNCU/WaHMI12FPgI/AAAAAAAAJmU/x6ZZOpLLABE5TI-392Kt3yafnOcpQZOKQCLcBGAs/s1600/potosflavus60jkm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><i><img alt="Potos flavus" border="2" data-original-height="457" data-original-width="1024" height="178" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6BgoCDzhNCU/WaHMI12FPgI/AAAAAAAAJmU/x6ZZOpLLABE5TI-392Kt3yafnOcpQZOKQCLcBGAs/s400/potosflavus60jkm.jpg" title="bienestar animal" width="400" /></i></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">En su primer día después de ser encontrada herida, Yuyu es triste y en agonía. Foto Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
La cuyusa llegó con varias heridas. La más serias fue de una pata desgarrada en la articulación de la rodilla. Los huesos de la pata se encontraron expuestos en una herida abierta, y la pata quedó inútil. Su ojo derecho se encontraba totalmente cerrado por el hinchazón alrededor. La mejilla debajo del ojo derecho sufrió una cortadura profunda y de más de dos centímetros de largo. El ojo derecho también se encontró golpeado.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em><em></em></em></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9lj6qkorYs/WaHMY1CMqeI/AAAAAAAAJmc/A5Vk3lvJHm0AY00oOh9TxgQ-wpnJMEUrwCLcBGAs/s1600/potosflavus51jkm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="rescate animal" border="2" data-original-height="936" data-original-width="1600" height="231" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9lj6qkorYs/WaHMY1CMqeI/AAAAAAAAJmc/A5Vk3lvJHm0AY00oOh9TxgQ-wpnJMEUrwCLcBGAs/s400/potosflavus51jkm.jpg" title="Potos flavus" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aunque se encuentra gravemente herida, Yuyu goza de un mango bien maduro. Se nota el ojo derecho en mal estado, la mejilla derecha con una laceración y el ojo izquierdo opacado. Foto Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Pensábamos que Yuyu iba a morir pronto. Se encontraba muy mal, muy triste. Pero cuando le ofrecimos comida, ella la devoraba con enormes ganas. Estuvo en agonía, con dolores fuertes, y sujeto a condiciones que nunca hubiera aceptado si pudiera escapar. Nosotros estábamos tristes por ella, y vimos que ella manifestaba grandes deseos de vivir. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nTnYgO0MNno/WaHMRc4Sr1I/AAAAAAAAJmY/PObmUvKgajI_tktIyX8K5IJV9LsoIQ_ywCLcBGAs/s1600/potosflavus65jkm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="rescate animal" border="2" data-original-height="677" data-original-width="1024" height="263" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nTnYgO0MNno/WaHMRc4Sr1I/AAAAAAAAJmY/PObmUvKgajI_tktIyX8K5IJV9LsoIQ_ywCLcBGAs/s400/potosflavus65jkm.jpg" title="animal silvestre" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">En evidente agonía y con una pata desgarrada, la cuyusa demostraba sentirse dolores fuertes. Foto Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">
Convencimos a algunos veterinarios que valía la pena darle una oportunidad, aunque fuera evidente que ella iba a enfrentar a otro mundo, si bien pudiera curarse en salud después de las cirugías necesarias para salvarle la vida. Nosotros en <em>GAIA</em> asumimos el compromiso de cuidarla y asegurar una vida que valga la pena para ella, aunque todavía no sabíamos qué implicaba. Los veterinarios generosamente regalaron a Yuyu tres cirugías necesarias para salvarle la vida, quitándole un ojo, limpiando y cerrando la herida abierta de su mejía, y amputándole su pata desgarrada. Es mucho que hacer a cualquier animal, y más aún a un animal silvestre.<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vgA49F5nRUg/WaHMhfleE1I/AAAAAAAAJmg/nfZSyirZzjk9EIuzVSQCRJ1vcvzT8vWJgCLcBGAs/s1600/potosflavus09andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="2" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vgA49F5nRUg/WaHMhfleE1I/AAAAAAAAJmg/nfZSyirZzjk9EIuzVSQCRJ1vcvzT8vWJgCLcBGAs/s400/potosflavus09andras.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Después de tres cirugías regaladas por los ángeles de World Vets en Granada, Yuyu parecía otro animal. Qué felicidad! Foto Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<em><em>
<br />
</em></em><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em><em></em></em></div>
Yuyu regresó de World Vets adormecida, y pronto estuvo despierta y hasta con hambre. Pronto se estuvo moviendo. Su comportamiento reflejaba una diferencia de inmediato, de mayor nivel de identificación con los seres humanos a quiénes ella tuvo que permitir estar cerca a ella. Y, más importante,
ella manifestaba evidente gozo, alegría, y curiosidad. Se dormía de día, despertándose solo para comer cuando se le traía fruta, pero de noche, comenzaba conocer a toda su jaula espaciosa. Resultó, tristemente, que su solo ojo remanente tampoco funcionaba; el color opaco no se quitó, evidentemente por daños severos, dejándola totalmente ciega. Pero si, encontraba chispas de alegrí en su vida, tan lejos de la que dejó atrás unas semanas antes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2WrdqQS8jLY/WaHLZiQk4VI/AAAAAAAAJmM/4zPnECu_JR0il4goEfC59wD9rIt_R1DRwCLcBGAs/s1600/potosflavus41jkm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="2" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2WrdqQS8jLY/WaHLZiQk4VI/AAAAAAAAJmM/4zPnECu_JR0il4goEfC59wD9rIt_R1DRwCLcBGAs/s400/potosflavus41jkm.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yuyu es y seguirá siendo un animal silvestre. Por las cosas de la vida, es obligada a depender a los seres humanos, ya que es totalmente ciega. Foto Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em><em><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nTnYgO0MNno/WaHMRc4Sr1I/AAAAAAAAJmY/PObmUvKgajI_tktIyX8K5IJV9LsoIQ_ywCLcBGAs/s1600/potosflavus65jkm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></em></em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
La calamidad que cayó a Yuyu le quitó todo de lo que era su vida de antes. No puede caminar por los árboles nunca más. No puede buscar una pareja, ni procrear en la forma que su especie suele hacerlo. No puede vivir y morir en el bosque como era su derecho y deber, siendo un animal silvestre. Ese día en marzo del 2017, cuando fue atacada por una persona con malas intenciones, ella dejó su vida en el bosque. Ahora, tiene otra. Es embajadora para su especie y para el bosque, contra el maltrato y el tráfico en <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2017/08/rescate-animal-xxv-la-ardilla.html" target="_blank">animales silvestres</a>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<em><em>
</em></em>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-csxnPnY4MmA/WaHL1ll3hjI/AAAAAAAAJmQ/3IcFBr0mOAsqEplcOcTHKWMQqdH-iOW5ACLcBGAs/s1600/kinkajou001jkm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="2" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-csxnPnY4MmA/WaHL1ll3hjI/AAAAAAAAJmQ/3IcFBr0mOAsqEplcOcTHKWMQqdH-iOW5ACLcBGAs/s400/kinkajou001jkm.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yuyu la cuyusa disfruta de su encierre de madera, donado por un voluntario. Ella siempre está a la orden para visitas, especialmente si el visitante trae regalías de fruta. Todos están invitados a visitarle y traerle bananos, sandía, melón, u otra fruta. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
Todos están invitados a visitar a la <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estación Biológica Laguna de Apoyo</a>, y conocer a Yuyu.
Ella es enamorada de las frutas nativas del bosque-nancite, jobo, jocote, aceituna-y también come de frutas introducidas, como el melón, sandía, banano, y mango. Yuyu siempre quiere recibir visitantes, y también quiere el contacto de algunos voluntarios que ayuden a limpiar su jaula, velar por ella, y darle a comer. Quieres ser <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/voluntario" target="_blank">voluntario eco-guerrero</a>? <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Contáctanos</a> para saber cómo puedes ayudar.</div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/6rmjtSYDv4g/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6rmjtSYDv4g?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/2cBDylCsfnU/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2cBDylCsfnU?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/uTgWxTh-uvE/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uTgWxTh-uvE?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Yl94rVgD8pw/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Yl94rVgD8pw?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i9.ytimg.com/vi/wmcRcytlZ5o/default.jpg?sqp=COy-iM0F&rs=AOn4CLAHDBIX97ZMOW2TNaSQKou2rzbuNA" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wmcRcytlZ5o?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
\<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Q_cv0oS3xSc/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q_cv0oS3xSc?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i9.ytimg.com/vi/C-OPRYyrxs0/default.jpg?sqp=CJjBiM0F&rs=AOn4CLBzbi4JlB8WwC0zx76ZNnwA2gv4RQ" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C-OPRYyrxs0?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/c24dTwZzLf0/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/c24dTwZzLf0?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/vmZTyqVvYrM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vmZTyqVvYrM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/d0MmmGa_Q9A/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d0MmmGa_Q9A?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-udEjNRruBvU/WaHqE7src2I/AAAAAAAAJmw/AD4vMr8kzzUNZG9M2nvb-IZC5p748AqxwCKgBGAs/s1600/escudo.bmp" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Oprime el escudo para contractarnos!</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.717388499999998 -127.53675899999996 37.5927545 -44.568008999999961tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-17548028479772254562017-08-24T23:04:00.001-06:002017-10-21T09:57:31.126-06:00Cruelty to Animals! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Each year, the city of Granada participates in the shameful, degrading practice of running of the bulls. Ostensibly, this event ritualizes the movement of bulls from one place to another, presumably from farm to beef processor. Regardless of its origin, it is now simply an opportunity to abuse animals with impunity.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On a main road in northern Granada, bulls were supposedly guided with multiple ropes pulled by mounted cowboys. One bull, of magnificent stature, was stalled in the middle of the street, surrounded by thousands of frenzied spectators. The bull was obviously exhausted and in an altered state from the abuse leading up to the moment. The animal received not just jeering, but lashes and punches from daring young men who felt the need to prove something about their bravery by goading the animal.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CNByishVdn4/WZ-MJhM8brI/AAAAAAAAJlo/4wOvbbug6IoC9I5n3nle9-yWPk6PGv8VwCLcBGAs/s1600/bullhorsegranada01jkm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img alt="running of the bulls" border="2" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="296" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CNByishVdn4/WZ-MJhM8brI/AAAAAAAAJlo/4wOvbbug6IoC9I5n3nle9-yWPk6PGv8VwCLcBGAs/s400/bullhorsegranada01jkm.jpg" title="Granada" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A bull, stalled in the middle of the street, is goaded as a horse with rider approach. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The bull, of course, has no opportunity to escape. The ropes prevent him from running far in any direction. Each rope, at least 20 meters in length, was pulled by a rider from different directions, all attached to his rack. The bull was hyperventilating, and incapable of going further. He was provoked from behind by dozens of men baiting him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then, a rider approached him to provoke him to advance, and the horse was guided directly to the side of the bull, leaving the flanks of the innocent horse exposed. The bull responded by planting a horn into the horse and lifting the horse, with rider still mounted, up until the hind feet were suspended in the air. He held the horse in this position, still, for at least fifteen seconds.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UWwPCwy2Q1w/WZ-MEJCYHCI/AAAAAAAAJlg/hYCwXm59J_Yz_1zZ-ShmnCiThp8TfpcuQCLcBGAs/s1600/bullhorsegranada02jkm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img alt="animal welfare" border="2" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="815" height="376" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UWwPCwy2Q1w/WZ-MEJCYHCI/AAAAAAAAJlg/hYCwXm59J_Yz_1zZ-ShmnCiThp8TfpcuQCLcBGAs/s400/bullhorsegranada02jkm.jpg" title="Granada" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This abusive rider placed his horse in evident danger, causing the horse to be impaled by a bull. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The rider, dismounted, once the bull released them and was pulled further away, but it was too late for his horse. The abdomen suffered a complete tear through to the mesentery, about eight inches in diameter, and the intestines of the horse were exposed and falling out through the hole.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wrPddc_tV1U/WZ-MEVf5SoI/AAAAAAAAJlk/mTu-Yl3-YFUeMVgU5XapWihBpAB287SKgCLcBGAs/s1600/bullhorsegranada03jkm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Law 747" border="2" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="537" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wrPddc_tV1U/WZ-MEVf5SoI/AAAAAAAAJlk/mTu-Yl3-YFUeMVgU5XapWihBpAB287SKgCLcBGAs/s640/bullhorsegranada03jkm.jpg" title="animal welfare" width="330" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The wound suffered by this horse, gored by a bull while being ridden, was surely fatal. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This horse presumably lost his life due to the reckless and inhumane behavior of the rider. But his life was not lost in vain, if the delight of hundreds of drunken men is given any consideration. This event was an opportunity for all to participate and observe at close range the suffering of animals on a scale that is not so easy to find any more, in an urban setting.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The blood sport which makes up this event, in its entirety, has no cultural value, and only serves to degrade and bring suffering to animals, as well as to put people at risk unnecessarily. Shortly after this occurrence, an ambulance was required to ferry a wounded person to seek emergency medical care. As would be expected, a dense crowd pressed on the victim, where hundreds of men competed for the best view of the misery of the poor man who had been trampled.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The society of Nicaragua needs to rethink why this event occurs at all. Its only apparent objectives appear to be to allow large hordes of men, many of whom were drunk, to abuse animals or to watch and enjoy the abuse performed by others. This event provides no function for the beef industry, and the suffering of the bull and the horse both were in blatant violation of the Law 747 which protects the <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2017/04/animal-rescue-xx-kinkajou.html" target="_blank">welfare of all animals</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There can not be any justification for this event on behalf of the beef industry, either, because the bulls that are subjected to this torture surely lose weight and suffer injuries, which reduce their value as slaughtered animals. This is nothing more than blood sport, in which people are encouraged to harm animals and to consider the torture of animals as entertainment.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The activities surrounding the running of the bulls is not only shameful because the animals are subjected to unnecessary suffering. The event encourages risky behavior among men and boys that invariably leads to serious injuries for a few unlucky, daring abusers. But a greater impact is the message, in the form of a call, to which thousands respond in each running of the bulls. That message is that making animals suffer needlessly is appropriate, and even to be enjoyed by humans. There is no argument that can be given to justify the suffering imposed on the bulls, other than as entertainment. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="Law 747" border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RnOewrPRi8w/WZ-q-RtnQ6I/AAAAAAAAJl4/HYZ4QZ6sttERAX7dVmGO9elgWuurLMeYwCKgBGAs/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="running of the bulls" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Granada, Nicaragua11.9344073 -85.95600050000001611.8719283 -86.037024500000015 11.9968863 -85.874976500000017tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-30202190464287897222017-08-12T16:06:00.000-06:002017-08-12T16:12:08.662-06:00Rescate Animal XXV: La Ardilla Centroamericana<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
Durante varios años, hemos estado ayudando a rescatar animales silvestres cuando sea necesario. Nuestra contribución de <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/" target="_blank">GAIA</a> a la vida silvestre en Nicaragua, a través del <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2017/07/animal-rescue-xxiii-variegated-squirrels.html" target="_blank">rescate</a>, rehabilitación, y liberación de animales, siempre ha sido pequeña, sin embargo, ha crecido notablemente recientemente. La diferencia mas notable que ha marcado los últimos años es que la conciencia de las personas que tienen animales silvestres como mascotas se ha ido levantando. Cada día hay mas gente en Nicaragua que reconoce que un animal silvestre debe vivir y morir en su hábitat natural, no en una jaula.<br />
<br />
El hecho de que lleguen animales, o de que llamen o escriban personas preocupadas que quieren reportar a un animal, o que quieren entregar un animal, que quieren apuntarse como voluntarios en el trabajo de cuidar a los animales o donar para que hayan condiciones y alimento para ellos, es en si, una manifestación de la conscientización que se esta dando entre la gente por encontrarse con la posibilidad de que los animales silvestres tengan su segunda oportunidad de vivir libres, una vez capturados.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XKVBjUAbsOo/WY9fTRwM51I/AAAAAAAAJjY/zv2HXFpHG54YLtwUqoT4qXfQGrzmVTk2gCLcBGAs/s1600/squirel01jkm2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="2" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="1024" height="288" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XKVBjUAbsOo/WY9fTRwM51I/AAAAAAAAJjY/zv2HXFpHG54YLtwUqoT4qXfQGrzmVTk2gCLcBGAs/s400/squirel01jkm2017.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A esta ardilla le encanta el banano! Foto Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Recientemente, una joven nos escribió, porque había comprado una ardilla centroamericana (<i><a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2013/07/animal-rescue-xiii-variegated-squirrel.html" target="_blank">Sciurus variegatoides</a></i>), la cuidó como suya, la trató muy bien, hasta dormía con ella. Pero con el tiempo, la joven reconoció que la ardilla no es un animal domesticado. Una ardilla debe vivir y morir entre los árboles, haciendo lo que hacen las ardillas y no obligada a vivir como el ser humano dicta.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZtTqF1o57Cw/WY9fTSeiH4I/AAAAAAAAJjc/UDmQki9iJkUeGD1EvvnQq7M0N7r2Fq2GQCLcBGAs/s1600/squirrel03jkm2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="2" data-original-height="670" data-original-width="1024" height="258" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZtTqF1o57Cw/WY9fTSeiH4I/AAAAAAAAJjc/UDmQki9iJkUeGD1EvvnQq7M0N7r2Fq2GQCLcBGAs/s400/squirrel03jkm2017.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La ardilla centroamericana (<i>Sciurus variegatoides</i>) es común en la región del Pacífico en Nicaragua. Foto Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Igual como en otras ocasiones, la ardilla presentaba una gran aficion al ser humano. Se dejaba tocar, llevar, y hasta dormia encima de las personas. Cuando la trajimos a la Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo, ella fue cargada por dos adolescentes voluntarios. Comia traquilamente cuando estaba en casa, pero al ver a los arboles y el gran verdor del bosque, se ponia inquieta.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--hlbSyFiNGg/WY9rTzwt-MI/AAAAAAAAJkU/cXy1tFMa7zcX71LrMv9Be1Ipu2dk6TxRwCLcBGAs/s1600/_1120384.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="2" data-original-height="877" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--hlbSyFiNGg/WY9rTzwt-MI/AAAAAAAAJkU/cXy1tFMa7zcX71LrMv9Be1Ipu2dk6TxRwCLcBGAs/s400/_1120384.jpg" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La ardillita come mientras es observada. Foto Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ya sabia la ardilla que los arboles se encuentran en su ADN. No se satisfacía con la atención de las personas. Se quiso ir, y pronto, se fue! </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P7Hd9AbHFXk/WY9fgyoG65I/AAAAAAAAJjo/RgBIc96T13Y0e5p-cikdoDR5BBLcKHvSACLcBGAs/s1600/squirrelshanti04jkm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="2" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="880" height="345" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P7Hd9AbHFXk/WY9fgyoG65I/AAAAAAAAJjo/RgBIc96T13Y0e5p-cikdoDR5BBLcKHvSACLcBGAs/s400/squirrelshanti04jkm.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La ardilla socializaba fácilmente con los jóvenes voluntarios en la Estación Biológica Laguna de Apoyo. Foto Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Esta ardilla, igual como muchas otras, se fue. Tres dias despues, fue vista, jugando con una ardilla grande, señalando que ya esta bien, fue aceptada entre las muchas ardillas que viven arriba de la Estación Biológica. Esperamos que tenga larga vida, y lo mas importante, que viva segun su naturaleza, que sea corta o larga. Hasta siempre, amiga.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/q7R4qstWkms/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q7R4qstWkms?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
Durante el 2017, muchas ardillas han sido traídas a la <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estación Biológica</a>, para su rehabilitación y regreso al bosque para que viva y muera libre. En el vídeo abajo, hay algunas mas ardillas que vinieron para ser liberadas.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/1Fx1cpOnv-o/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1Fx1cpOnv-o?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Si deseas ayudar a cuidar a la naturaleza, escríbenos y dinos como puedes participar. Estamos siempre a la orden para cualquier comentario. Échanos una mano y trabajemos juntos para cuidar la vida silvestre en Nicaragua. </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.feedbackform/" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9RNA6kL43fI/WVhpmGUQIpI/AAAAAAAAJZQ/iM87ymvDUykqAFou4ABZfHt5QqBi6luZACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/escudo.bmp" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.feedbackform/" target="_blank">Oprime el escudo para contactarnos.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.717388499999998 -127.53675899999996 37.5927545 -44.568008999999961tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-31009120978291325372017-08-10T23:20:00.002-06:002017-08-11T06:59:30.987-06:00The Turquoise-Browed Motmot<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Nicaragua does not have an officially designated national bird. Nonetheless, the Turquoise-browed Motmot (<i>Eumomota superciliosa</i>) is widely regarded as the national bird. Its imagery permeates the symbology of the country, even appearing on the recently issued 200-cordoba note. All Nicaraguans love this bird, to be sure. Its name in Nicaraguan Spanish is <i>Guardabarranco</i>, or Bank Keeper.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R3-awv__25s/WY0CblvJacI/AAAAAAAAJgg/ogyQ_qxQg4k0FxXeh5D1UMIh_Wdta5gYgCLcBGAs/s1600/eumsup02jkm2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Eumomota superciliosa" border="2" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1364" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R3-awv__25s/WY0CblvJacI/AAAAAAAAJgg/ogyQ_qxQg4k0FxXeh5D1UMIh_Wdta5gYgCLcBGAs/s640/eumsup02jkm2017.jpg" style="image-orientation: 90deg;" title="motmot" width="544" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Turquoise-browed Motmot brings a caterpillar to the chicks in a nest on the patio of Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This year marked a first. On our, not exactly expansive, patio, a pair of Turquoise-browed Motmots decided to nest. The nest conditions they require has spawned their Nicaraguan name: They choose a horizontal hole in a dirt bank, usually previously made by small reptiles, then expand and lengthen it. The nest is protected from some kinds of potential predators by its location that can be reached only with difficulty by small, clawed animals that can scale the wall, or by flying; by the length of the nest and usually a crook in the access tunnel, which makes any trip into the tunnel treacherous; and by extreme stealth on entering and leaving the nest. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8TN5SLTUGN4/WY09aA6nffI/AAAAAAAAJi4/dr3VEnsFchwP8e8jG_CzOVvHC7VfwChqACLcBGAs/s1600/200-cordobas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve" border="2" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="600" height="176" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8TN5SLTUGN4/WY09aA6nffI/AAAAAAAAJi4/dr3VEnsFchwP8e8jG_CzOVvHC7VfwChqACLcBGAs/s400/200-cordobas.jpg" title="birdwatching" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 200-cordoba note, made of plastic, features none other than the <i>Guardabarranco</i>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The nest site was a drainage hole, placed in a stone retaining wall. It is shielded from easy view by a mahogany tree, but is less than two meters from every person entering and leaving Estacion Biologica. There was just enough cover from the mahogany tree to permit the birds to enter and leave without being easily noticed. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_l8ib-GNXG0/WY06Gm90geI/AAAAAAAAJik/VKY9YN0qGIAiKeaRcePpgWvy9XiOTBJewCLcBGAs/s1600/eumsup11jkm2017%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Turquoise-browed Motmot" border="2" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="313" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_l8ib-GNXG0/WY06Gm90geI/AAAAAAAAJik/VKY9YN0qGIAiKeaRcePpgWvy9XiOTBJewCLcBGAs/s640/eumsup11jkm2017%2B%25281%2529.jpg" title="motmot" width="440" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A juicy caterpillar is on its way to chicks in the Turquoise-browed Motmot nest. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once the eggs have hatched, the real work begins. Hungry chicks demand a lot of food, with particular nutrition profiles, particularly lots of protein. Both parents hurriedly made forays into the garden below and the jungle behind in search of fruits and especially small animals.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2myXPOfa_EA/WY06Go1K9jI/AAAAAAAAJis/UGIe-x74OP8F393csP7smhdZacbBpyd1wCLcBGAs/s1600/eumsup15jkm2017%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Eumomota superciliosa" border="2" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="341" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2myXPOfa_EA/WY06Go1K9jI/AAAAAAAAJis/UGIe-x74OP8F393csP7smhdZacbBpyd1wCLcBGAs/s640/eumsup15jkm2017%2B%25281%2529.jpg" title="birdwatching" width="474" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Turquoise-browed Motmot, caterillar in tow, is waiting for its mate to emerge from the nest, to ferry more food to them. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We were too busy to monitor the nest constantly. Furthermore, the parents noted whether someone was observing before entering or leaving the nest. We chose to act casually, let them do their thing, and hope for the best. This species is abundant in the Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, some nests are found only 40 meters from our gate, but this first use of our own property made us proud.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8drg1AGEBI/WY06Gjk5lrI/AAAAAAAAJio/mqtRnmrU4mQqpn3Tl1rieUMAlmldANW4QCLcBGAs/s1600/eumsup17jkm2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="eumomota superciliosa" border="2" data-original-height="356" data-original-width="238" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8drg1AGEBI/WY06Gjk5lrI/AAAAAAAAJio/mqtRnmrU4mQqpn3Tl1rieUMAlmldANW4QCLcBGAs/s640/eumsup17jkm2017.jpg" title="birdwatching laguna de apoyo" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Turquoise-browed Motmot is uncharacteristically abundant in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We never saw the chicks depart, and the large numbers of nearby birds of this species makes it impossible to state which bird came from where. Whether they survived and fledged, we can only speculate. Hopefully, because we try to make our grounds more natural and friendly to wildlife, the nesting pair was able to use a new site successfully, and perhaps we will get another visit in the future. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One does not have to be an expert to enjoy birdwatching. If you would like to see this gorgeous bird and lots of other forest birds, ask us to provide a field guide for a short excursion. Birdwatching is an inclusive, learning and enjoying activity, in which beginners can participate. Contact us if you would like to make a <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/birdwatchinglagunadeapoyo" target="_blank">birdwatching</a> excursion. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="guardabarranco" border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o1scev9kKps/WV1_l4GXFsI/AAAAAAAAJa0/20zsaeQRcEwtzGKhiRCTOVugDSc-YWSoQCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="birdwatching" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.717388499999998 -127.53675899999996 37.5927545 -44.568008999999961tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-17185781125281097382017-08-09T12:58:00.000-06:002017-08-11T06:20:14.114-06:00Laguna de Apoyo Morning Yoga<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Anyone up for some morning yoga? Andras is conducting yoga classes at <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estacion Biologica</a>, and you are invited to join it. It's a great way to start the day, by reminding your body of its center, and awakening the relationships between the mind and the body. Starting 6 am, each Monday and Thursday.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0iewFXUIwNE/WYtKTH6qmPI/AAAAAAAAJfs/3WMln78pZW86UgB2poGT_qQIoc3DGF7pQCLcBGAs/s1600/20747571_1588737267813235_534559997_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="yoga in Laguna de Apoyo" border="2" data-original-height="1010" data-original-width="1600" height="251" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0iewFXUIwNE/WYtKTH6qmPI/AAAAAAAAJfs/3WMln78pZW86UgB2poGT_qQIoc3DGF7pQCLcBGAs/s400/20747571_1588737267813235_534559997_o.jpg" title="yoga in Laguna de Apoyo" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yoga is a great way to start the day, anywhere, but it's best in the jungle. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A hurried day can easily combine with distractions to keep a person from relaxing, feeling oneself, and reducing the effects of all the noise from without and within. Yoga also can get the blood flowing to parts of the body that might not be getting enough attention, without impacts and strains of many sports.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QQnj2FA8d-k/WYs_MH4OVUI/AAAAAAAAJfY/DJRHE9_R59MkGsnpyZ0oFLjBaqO5jhaYACLcBGAs/s1600/yoga1andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="yoga" border="2" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QQnj2FA8d-k/WYs_MH4OVUI/AAAAAAAAJfY/DJRHE9_R59MkGsnpyZ0oFLjBaqO5jhaYACLcBGAs/s400/yoga1andras.jpg" title="yoga" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Visitors to Estacion Biologica and students of Apoyo Spanish School can start their mornings with a yoga class. Photo Andras Dorgai. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The yoga class began on the first morning with sun, following several with impending rain or storms. There was no wind, so the trees were silent, except for the grunts of monkeys raiding the fruits of a couple of Cecropia trees in the yard. They occasionally howled, and a neighboring dog barked. Bella, our own dog at Estacion Biologica, insisted on mixing with the yoga class, too, but she eventually accepted to stay on the margin. Scrubbing of clothes on a wash stand down the way could be heard, as well.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bm6v_lomUCg/WYs_TuuDieI/AAAAAAAAJfc/LB49QyMbVzQh9-qcNBwAYly7r9MxduCxACLcBGAs/s1600/yoga2andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="yoga " border="2" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bm6v_lomUCg/WYs_TuuDieI/AAAAAAAAJfc/LB49QyMbVzQh9-qcNBwAYly7r9MxduCxACLcBGAs/s400/yoga2andras.jpg" title="yoga" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andras and yoga students on the deck at Estacion Biologica. Laguna de Apoyo makes a great place to practice yoga. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Practicing yoga is good everywhere, although some places call out. If you are visiting Laguna de Apoyo, you are welcome to visit <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/" target="_blank">Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo</a>, and practice yoga on our deck. Yoga teachers, experienced people, beginners, and curious are all welcome. You won't need anything special, just come as you are. Our wooden floor is soft enough for most poses, and some cushion can be improvised if you do not have a yoga mat.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--uw8Zn1odjY/WYyL1KU2g-I/AAAAAAAAJgM/NdV5NY6av80EmVqFotm2F7UPcsmCK-r-wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG-20170809-WA0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="2" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--uw8Zn1odjY/WYyL1KU2g-I/AAAAAAAAJgM/NdV5NY6av80EmVqFotm2F7UPcsmCK-r-wCLcBGAs/s400/IMG-20170809-WA0005.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yoga class ends with a moment of relaxation. Photo Pablo Somarriba.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Time for breakfast, then on to <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/school" target="_blank">Apoyo Spanish School</a>! Or to whatever plan each person has for the day. Some people are Spanish students, others are overnight guests, and others come from nearby hostels just for yoga, or also a great, vegetarian breakfast afterward.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="yoga in Nicaragua" border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j_A45AV-CUo/WYtWH-DPsTI/AAAAAAAAJf8/enfT1lS5fUIECvluQfgiVnaHPLmLcMy6wCKgBGAs/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="yoga in Nicaragua" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com1Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.717388499999998 -127.53675899999996 37.5927545 -44.568008999999961tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-32310727774547740652017-08-05T17:36:00.000-06:002017-08-05T17:36:36.505-06:00Petroglyphs in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, Nicaragua<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The Apoyo Volcano exploded in what may have been the most powerful of all the volcanic blasts of the quaternary epoch in Central America, around 23,000 years ago. No humans were around to see it, however, as the first direct or indirect evidence of humans in the area seems to be less than 15,000 years old. We can imagine the awe of the first people to look down into the lake seated at the bottom of the crater. Although the name "Apoyo" matches a Spanish-language word, it actually is a precolombian toponym referring to clear water.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jf-XhMFeEvw/WYYhvPeTuBI/AAAAAAAAJeI/JdoORW0w-98Ohfv02UYehDK--a1LnN5KACLcBGAs/s1600/petroglyph1ps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="petroglyph" border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jf-XhMFeEvw/WYYhvPeTuBI/AAAAAAAAJeI/JdoORW0w-98Ohfv02UYehDK--a1LnN5KACLcBGAs/s400/petroglyph1ps.jpg" title="petroglyph" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We know nothing of the message or messengers who inscribed on the rocks in Laguna de Apoyo. Photo Pablo Somarriba.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The precolombian people of the region around Apoyo, particularly on the sides of the Pueblos Blancos to the west, and Masaya to the north, did not die out or migrate away. Precolombian roots are seen in the faces and the traditions of the area. Furthermore, in Masaya and a few other areas, some people maintain official indigenous representation, according to registrations with the government from more than a century ago. The precolombian culture was largely erradicated by the Spanish conquest, but these relics give silent testimony to a society that still lives.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PgE-Vz9jEaY/WYYhvLtF-2I/AAAAAAAAJeM/5IzqnOH7paIxvvskFSLBNYLifEPf-RT9gCLcBGAs/s1600/petroglyph2ps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="petroglyph" border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PgE-Vz9jEaY/WYYhvLtF-2I/AAAAAAAAJeM/5IzqnOH7paIxvvskFSLBNYLifEPf-RT9gCLcBGAs/s400/petroglyph2ps.jpg" title="culture" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Indigenous people of the area left etchinngs in several rocks in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. Photo Pablo Somarriba. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Students at Apoyo Spanish School can visit the petroglyphs found in different locations near us. The messages have not been deciphered, so each person can imagine and hypothesize about the meanings behind each etching. Some are small, others are a few meters wide. The centuries have passed since these designs and messages were left behind, but thankfully, we are still able to enjoy them.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v_bL5IHPM3I/WYYhuq_ZjlI/AAAAAAAAJeE/8ai4z-EDWJIc_FuA9fSyfsf12-ngcmjFACLcBGAs/s1600/petroglyph3ps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="precolombian culture" border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v_bL5IHPM3I/WYYhuq_ZjlI/AAAAAAAAJeE/8ai4z-EDWJIc_FuA9fSyfsf12-ngcmjFACLcBGAs/s400/petroglyph3ps.jpg" title="arts" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Possibly an Insect? Turtle? Photo Pablo Somarriba.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The hundreds of years of separation from their prior society has left the native Nicaraguans of this area disconnected from the reasons, language, and messages behind these treasures. Someday, hopefully, there could be a rescue of these petroglyphs for the benefit of the people who continue to live in the area. It is no surprise that many petroglyphs are found here, because of the abundance of rock and the marvelous place that is the interior of the Apoyo crater.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Gsi-O2nuU4/WYYirwn-cyI/AAAAAAAAJeU/zQGtnf0JW6wMqyYSVUBIxj0E6P8ueK-kwCLcBGAs/s1600/petroglyph2andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Apoyo Spanish School" border="0" data-original-height="571" data-original-width="960" height="237" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Gsi-O2nuU4/WYYirwn-cyI/AAAAAAAAJeU/zQGtnf0JW6wMqyYSVUBIxj0E6P8ueK-kwCLcBGAs/s400/petroglyph2andras.jpg" title="petroglyph" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students of Apoyo Spanish School sit above a large petroglyph in the Apoyo crater. Photo Andras Dorgai</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There are a few nice walks on public-access trails in the crater that pass by petroglyphs. These walks can combine great views of landscapes, birds, monkeys, the incredible diversity of plants, and these relics from another era. Some of the trails lead to communities along the edge of the crater, so a walk could terminate with a nice beverage while looking across the lake.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SpusWz1e1To/WYYir4EXL_I/AAAAAAAAJeY/e4uTN-_dpHgegdZRuYVz2HU-QJtP9cv7wCLcBGAs/s1600/petroglyph7andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="petroglyph" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SpusWz1e1To/WYYir4EXL_I/AAAAAAAAJeY/e4uTN-_dpHgegdZRuYVz2HU-QJtP9cv7wCLcBGAs/s400/petroglyph7andras.jpg" title="precolombian culture" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This petroglyph has been carved on the top of a flat bedrock. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
If you would like to make a hike to see petroglyphs, please contact us. We would love to take you for a hike that can combine birds, monkeys, useful plants, petroglyphs, and majestic views.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2NN-wfXlOzs/WYYisYfjHII/AAAAAAAAJeg/CGqoGV-BWtI09FhoV4nJHOYsQ_z22kxjwCLcBGAs/s1600/petroglyph8andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="petroglyph" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2NN-wfXlOzs/WYYisYfjHII/AAAAAAAAJeg/CGqoGV-BWtI09FhoV4nJHOYsQ_z22kxjwCLcBGAs/s640/petroglyph8andras.jpg" title="Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A petroglyph in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UIVOjfky-Zg/WYYisckPUFI/AAAAAAAAJek/d6PGL_kWRLUuFc6XWy4OXbUa6eW0-bSdQCLcBGAs/s1600/petroglyph9andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="precolombian culture" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UIVOjfky-Zg/WYYisckPUFI/AAAAAAAAJek/d6PGL_kWRLUuFc6XWy4OXbUa6eW0-bSdQCLcBGAs/s640/petroglyph9andras.jpg" title="Nicaragua" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chilling imagery left behind by the precolombian ancestors in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mrIsCRkAYFs/WYYir1AGPeI/AAAAAAAAJec/X40if2S0NHAdZWR4TutrItOUAwq_MVXKwCLcBGAs/s1600/petroglyph10andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="petroglyph" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mrIsCRkAYFs/WYYir1AGPeI/AAAAAAAAJec/X40if2S0NHAdZWR4TutrItOUAwq_MVXKwCLcBGAs/s400/petroglyph10andras.jpg" title="petroglyph" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A spooky petroglyph with ann oddity behind. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="precolombian culture" border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RZElZ4uRN5M/WYZUM7sOg1I/AAAAAAAAJe0/3s3DtSqBmTMSIKllvOdJDeimCzG9ARSCwCKgBGAs/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="culture" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.717388499999998 -127.53675899999996 37.5927545 -44.568008999999961tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-72843166671535429882017-08-04T21:35:00.000-06:002017-08-05T21:26:24.734-06:00Animal Rescue XXIV: Midorna, the Scarlet Macaw<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Many wild animals that have been captured and submitted to the <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2017/07/animal-rescue-xxiii-variegated-squirrels.html" target="_blank">pet trade</a> can be given their fair opportunity to live and die in their natural habitat, instead of a cage. Over the last decade, we have participated in the return to the forest of parrots, toucans, squirrels, monkeys, owls, doves, among many other animals. We have also provided a kind of hospice for lots of wild animals that were mortally injured, almost always as a consequence of some kind of human-wildlife conflict. Many times, these conflicts have been non directly intentional. Other times, conscious intent to harm or at least use harmful force against some wild animal occurred. <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2017/04/animal-rescue-xx-kinkajou.html" target="_blank">Wild animal rescue</a> may be needed for any of several, different reasons.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aC_TDvzWkmY/WYUFFm0-IDI/AAAAAAAAJdM/bYA8c7vg6IUokj2CUOkAoecvxv6IJelVwCLcBGAs/s1600/midorna1andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="animal rescue" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="700" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aC_TDvzWkmY/WYUFFm0-IDI/AAAAAAAAJdM/bYA8c7vg6IUokj2CUOkAoecvxv6IJelVwCLcBGAs/s640/midorna1andras.jpg" title="cites" width="466" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Midorna, a Scarlet Macaw, is a long-term resident of Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of the ways wildlife encounter conflict with humans is because of the pet trade. Almost any animal can be found for sale on the side of the road at likely locations, many of them offered as pets, others as meat. A few species of animals in Nicaragua, however, are overwhelmingly victimized by the pet trade. One of those species is the <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2013/01/illegal-traffic-in-nicaraguan-wildlife.html" target="_blank">Scarlet Macaw</a> (<i>Ara macao</i>).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5PcHMviYDMc/WYUFFl0nyHI/AAAAAAAAJdQ/GmD10tmhIvgPOcJV6Xtonn4SfbCEkxdKACLcBGAs/s1600/midorna2andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="scarlet macaw" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="848" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5PcHMviYDMc/WYUFFl0nyHI/AAAAAAAAJdQ/GmD10tmhIvgPOcJV6Xtonn4SfbCEkxdKACLcBGAs/s400/midorna2andras.jpg" title="animal rescue" width="352" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New blood feathers, still covered in sheaths, are emerging along the neck of Midorna. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2012/11/nicaraguan-macaws.html" target="_blank">Scarlet Macaw</a> was first listed in Appendix III in the list of protected species of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (<a href="https://cites.org/sites/default/files/eng/com/ac/17/E17-08-1.pdf" target="_blank">CITES</a>), in 1976. Its status was elevated to the more restrictive Appendix II in 1981, then to the most restrictive category for international trade, Appendix I, in 1985. In spite of this listing, the subspecies found in Mexico and Central America, <i>Ara macao cyanoptera</i>, has continued on a precipitous decline in wild populations. They had disappeared from El Salvador in the wild by 1987, and today in Nicaragua, fewer than 100 individuals are found in the wild, thanks principally to the pet trade.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tOoJE-XrVcI/WYUFGWMoDMI/AAAAAAAAJdY/IXETL3hPyC8CrjSTMQDhOJjhfsxMAva7wCLcBGAs/s1600/midorna3andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="ara macao" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tOoJE-XrVcI/WYUFGWMoDMI/AAAAAAAAJdY/IXETL3hPyC8CrjSTMQDhOJjhfsxMAva7wCLcBGAs/s640/midorna3andras.jpg" title="scarlet macaw" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For the few who earn her utmost trust, Midorna can be quite a playmate. Photo Andras Dorgai. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Midorna is a female Scarlet Macaw that has lived a fairly typical life for its species in Nicaragua. There has never existed a macaw hatchery in Nicaragua, so she, like all the others of her species in captivity, were once wild animals, flying free over forests and fields. Because Scarlet Macaws fly above the canopy, and make tremendous rackets while flying, they do not go unnoticed, making their presence-and their absence-conspicuous. Until 1983, several individuals that roosted in the Chiltepe Peninsula would routinely fly over Lake Managua to reach the capital, where they were easily observed. Likewise, the last corroborated accounts of the Scarlet Macaw in the villages around Laguna de Apoyo were from 1969, where they were regarded as potential sources of income for those who could catch them for the pet trade, and as pests by farmers whose corn could be decimated quickly by a flock. Although we don't know her age, Midorna is evidently decades old already. </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fncDpi6mAcc/WYUFGkhydOI/AAAAAAAAJdc/Y27bm4lBEZQ9EyZTgj-hfkE_YqSbWrlngCLcBGAs/s1600/midorna4andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="pet trade" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fncDpi6mAcc/WYUFGkhydOI/AAAAAAAAJdc/Y27bm4lBEZQ9EyZTgj-hfkE_YqSbWrlngCLcBGAs/s640/midorna4andras.jpg" title="ara macao" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Midorna craves attention and loves especially the company of males. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The pet trade has meant for Midorna, and for hundreds of other Scarlet Macaws in Nicaragua, a lot more than the tragedy of passing decades of her life in cages instead of the wild, where she belongs. During her capture and handling, or more bones in one of her wings was broken, leaving her absolutely incapable of flight. She knows perfectly well that nature gave her wings to fly, yet she cannot fly, or even make a soft landing if she falls from a height. She has been codemned to a flightless life in her conscious being, albeit she surely flies in her dreams. She loves to raise her wings and feel the wind in them, and to observe below from a high perch.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUTpY-topnA/WYUFGv4UCYI/AAAAAAAAJdg/NcHr8aLzzJkGkxDnl9kYjIoQNMolsRPCgCLcBGAs/s1600/midorna5andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="cites" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUTpY-topnA/WYUFGv4UCYI/AAAAAAAAJdg/NcHr8aLzzJkGkxDnl9kYjIoQNMolsRPCgCLcBGAs/s640/midorna5andras.jpg" title="scarlet macaw" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Midorna and her special friend. The majority of the red feathers that should provide a complete covering over her breast have been plucked by her. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Prisoners go mad when faced with extreme boredom in their incarceration. It should not be any surprise that a Scarlet Macaw would also react poorly to years in a cage. Boredom and isolation are guaranteed. Midorna has developed a behavioral disorder involving breaking and/or plucking her feathers. This disorder is chronic and recurrent: her feathers periodically regrow, only to be broken or plucked again. Even if she were to fly, this disorder would make her life in the wild impossible.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x-pbUVespgw/WYUFG7jUDVI/AAAAAAAAJdk/yupfjxvXX90lh5txzflZsYKmdClNAV-dQCLcBGAs/s1600/midorna6andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="animal rescue" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="691" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x-pbUVespgw/WYUFG7jUDVI/AAAAAAAAJdk/yupfjxvXX90lh5txzflZsYKmdClNAV-dQCLcBGAs/s640/midorna6andras.jpg" title="ara macao" width="460" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Midorna benefits from company, and becomes visibly happier with more interactions. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In these ways, not only has her life been robbed of years; her sentence for captivity is lifelong, and her own behavior is now plagued with pernicious actions that prejudice her own happiness. These issues are extremely common among macaws in captivity.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fd7AiclPDZk/WYUFHPOvIQI/AAAAAAAAJdo/9EgwTPGN120r4jKisCDykPwW-UMtQ0G9gCLcBGAs/s1600/midorna7andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="ara macao" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="745" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fd7AiclPDZk/WYUFHPOvIQI/AAAAAAAAJdo/9EgwTPGN120r4jKisCDykPwW-UMtQ0G9gCLcBGAs/s640/midorna7andras.jpg" title="cites" width="496" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Scarlet Macaw is no longer seen in the wild, almost anywhere in Nicaragua. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There are many issues at stake with what to do with Midorna. First and foremost, is the issue of the integrity of the wild populations that currently exist in Nicaragua and the region. If there is any way that Midorna's life can contribute to the healing and recovery of a stable, continuous, wild Scarlet Macaw population, then she should be at its service. There are many, many Scarlet Macaws in captivity throughout Nicaragua, and they could be placed into a captive reproduction program with the intention to create a new generation for release into the wild. Unfortunately, releasing Scarlet Macaws supposes a safe place for them to be released, which effectively does not yet exist. First, we need to create the conditions which discourage people from capturing them in the wild. At the moment, those conditions do not exist. So, Midorna is waiting.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xGf7mehBJ0Q/WYUFHcbUQ0I/AAAAAAAAJds/7IEZMGC3LgEQWxO2uxh3t_Wgjcsl9zmbwCLcBGAs/s1600/midorna8andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="pet trade" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xGf7mehBJ0Q/WYUFHcbUQ0I/AAAAAAAAJds/7IEZMGC3LgEQWxO2uxh3t_Wgjcsl9zmbwCLcBGAs/s640/midorna8andras.jpg" title="scarlet macaw" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not just anyone would risk a kiss from Midorna. As a Scarlet Macaw, she has powerful mandibles that could rip flesh with ease. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Midorna can help to create the conditions for a future with Scarlet Macaws once again flying overhead in Laguna de Apoyo and similar areas. She is an ambassador for her species, for the tragedy of the pet trade. Nicaraguans and foreigners alike get to hear her story and contemplate the issues that are behind her condition. More is needed to change the tide, however.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vfegypDY2-k/WYUFHchiPnI/AAAAAAAAJdw/e7VQuTFXvYA3qTMQPJ9fzCqF49lzIl8CwCLcBGAs/s1600/midorna9andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Scarlet Macaw" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="681" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vfegypDY2-k/WYUFHchiPnI/AAAAAAAAJdw/e7VQuTFXvYA3qTMQPJ9fzCqF49lzIl8CwCLcBGAs/s640/midorna9andras.jpg" title="Ara macao" width="454" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The role of the Scarlet Macaw in wilderness policy in Nicaragua is the story that Midorna has to tell others. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/research" target="_blank">Research</a>, <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/conservation" target="_blank">conservation policy advocacy</a>, and <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/education" target="_blank">education</a> on the pet trade in wild animals are still needed in Nicaragua in a big way. You can help. First of all, don't buy wild animals as pets. Make your opinion heard among your friends. Second, get involved. <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/volunteer" target="_blank">Volunteer</a> your time to care of wild animals, donate your spare change to help feed and care for them, or join us for a study of the issues behind the pet trade. <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Contact us</a> at <i>GAIA</i> if you are interested!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VL7c1Sz7q0Q/WYUFFgsQb2I/AAAAAAAAJdU/100WeX4ltf8Zasm0DL_ySk4wK8e2F9MIQCLcBGAs/s1600/midorna10andras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ara macao" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="759" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VL7c1Sz7q0Q/WYUFFgsQb2I/AAAAAAAAJdU/100WeX4ltf8Zasm0DL_ySk4wK8e2F9MIQCLcBGAs/s640/midorna10andras.jpg" title="Scarlet macaw" width="506" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beards are a special attraction to Midorna. Our goal is that she is the happiest Scarlet Macaw in the country, because liberty is no longer an option. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7pV2HC_aEUs/WYaKzlhIn8I/AAAAAAAAJfE/_lI6469cBr8NoDQ400j3oQVkcFuny_bkgCLcBGAs/s1600/Aramacao2017jkm1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="pet trade" border="0" data-original-height="1231" data-original-width="1600" height="306" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7pV2HC_aEUs/WYaKzlhIn8I/AAAAAAAAJfE/_lI6469cBr8NoDQ400j3oQVkcFuny_bkgCLcBGAs/s400/Aramacao2017jkm1.jpg" title="CITES" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Midorna loves attention, particularly from boys. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DMQLMbaUHu4/WYaKz1-SrfI/AAAAAAAAJfI/6_crcRfUU3oPD4ct9C92wQbl-0_Clp9tACLcBGAs/s1600/Aramacao2017jkm4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ara macao" border="0" data-original-height="1393" data-original-width="1600" height="345" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DMQLMbaUHu4/WYaKz1-SrfI/AAAAAAAAJfI/6_crcRfUU3oPD4ct9C92wQbl-0_Clp9tACLcBGAs/s400/Aramacao2017jkm4.jpg" title="wild animal rescue" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Midorna having an intense conversation. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="Scarlet Macaw" border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WTNt0tBXB90/WUK5v5JzXeI/AAAAAAAAJXE/RehFNwzEguY5ZcT27RxIeA0-srGRBZ8mgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="Pet trade" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.5843515 -127.36097799999996 37.4597175 -44.743789999999962tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-76556216698137165672017-07-08T17:38:00.000-06:002017-07-08T19:26:19.848-06:00Reforestation III: Saving the planet, one tree at a time<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Any well-grounded person would agree that <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/conservation" target="_blank">saving the planet</a> is a goal beyond our reach. No one reading this blog controls enough resources to dream of something so big. But it is not beyond our reach to plant a tree in a place that once was a <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/reforestation" target="_blank">forest</a> and could again return to the wild.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gp8LEC7tJWI/WWEmTmAITCI/AAAAAAAAJbo/5AEsmHfO93IbBnRZspJBuq5L-7S-OusegCEwYBhgL/s1600/gapforcereforestation1ps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="reforestation" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gp8LEC7tJWI/WWEmTmAITCI/AAAAAAAAJbo/5AEsmHfO93IbBnRZspJBuq5L-7S-OusegCEwYBhgL/s320/gapforcereforestation1ps.jpg" title="eco-warrior volunteer" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gapforce volunteers planted dozens of trees in a reforestation plot. Photo Pablo Somarriba.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For most folks in most circumstances, several factors inhibit their capacity to make a lasting contribution, however small, to the forests as they rapidly vanish before us. We all recognize that the issues facing our forests are far greater and more complex than simply taking a sapling and sticking it into the ground. Resolving the fundamental issues behind the disappearance of trees from a site is almost always difficult or impossible. Planting trees in a rapidly deforesting world may be of no more benefit than that of Sisyphus rolling a rock up the hill.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4-Y95zAeOmk/WWEmThbkDkI/AAAAAAAAJbA/C8dUOTZ2tYcF2ehycWTid9oijKmrZDCAACLcBGAs/s1600/gapforcereforestation2ps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="reforestation in Nicaragua" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4-Y95zAeOmk/WWEmThbkDkI/AAAAAAAAJbA/C8dUOTZ2tYcF2ehycWTid9oijKmrZDCAACLcBGAs/s400/gapforcereforestation2ps.jpg" title="volunteer" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Volunteers work among trees planted earlier, already reaching some six meters height. Photo Pablo Somarriba.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our reforestation activities aim for a high survival of trees to reach maturity, by taking a series of steps to get stakeholders interested, involved, and committed. GAIA reforests lands inside the <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/lagunadeapoyo" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve</a>, through commitments from the individual landowners, or when land is not privately held, the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment and the municipal authorities. Our contribution to the forest cover within the protected area is relatively small, with a total of some 8,000 trees planted to date. Many of these trees have survived and some have already reached at least eight meters height, and howler monkeys have been observed climbing in them, demonstrating a very important level of success.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OQYa6P16vJk/WWEmU9OE57I/AAAAAAAAJbQ/gaIty4d61xgpJCRBwbWxrkAZvdFdA13cwCLcBGAs/s1600/gapforcevivero1ps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="environmental volunteer" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OQYa6P16vJk/WWEmU9OE57I/AAAAAAAAJbQ/gaIty4d61xgpJCRBwbWxrkAZvdFdA13cwCLcBGAs/s400/gapforcevivero1ps.jpg" title="tree nursery" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gapforce volunteers taking care of saplings in the garden. We grow trees from seeds harvested from the forests of Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. Photo Psblo Somarriba. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There is another good reason for conducting our reforestation project. Others see what we do, and little by little, people begin to appreciate the value of their own energy and effort in a collective force to save the wild areas in Nicaragua. Teachers and their students from schools come to participate, adding their efforts, of a a few hours or a few days, to bring more wild nature habitat to this area. Individuals and even families come and spend a day, a week, or even a few months as reforestation volunteers.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6v0VvRouvs/WWEmXtk2RkI/AAAAAAAAJbU/Zhx6aYmtg1MMq0DHDLcUUsKEbUvSRyOZACLcBGAs/s1600/P1110723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6v0VvRouvs/WWEmXtk2RkI/AAAAAAAAJbU/Zhx6aYmtg1MMq0DHDLcUUsKEbUvSRyOZACLcBGAs/s640/P1110723.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seeds are gathered in the forest, and then processed by hand, as part of the reforestation activity. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Spending a couple of hours once in a while to make the world a better place is not just an idea among the foreigners here. Our own neighbors have become environmentalists. When we organize a tree-planting activity, some neighbors want to be involved. Nicaraguans are increasingly finding ways to make their environment greener and cleaner.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TbjczIWbkxw/WWEmVA5I9_I/AAAAAAAAJbI/Fztg-1ObBk0BeO4YkUbGUZIDSdP83hybwCLcBGAs/s1600/reforestation1michaellowrey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1196" data-original-width="1600" height="296" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TbjczIWbkxw/WWEmVA5I9_I/AAAAAAAAJbI/Fztg-1ObBk0BeO4YkUbGUZIDSdP83hybwCLcBGAs/s400/reforestation1michaellowrey.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree seedlings are planted in reforestation plots during the rainy season. Photo Michael Lowery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Seeing the reactions of so many people toward reforestation convinces us that growing, planting, and caring for trees is one of the best ways we can work in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. We feel validated by the people who join us and we think they do, as well.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-83y-xQXTSwo/WWEmV_jWJII/AAAAAAAAJbM/XKTkVZ4BMcMxMNuWCTvIcJc1iRHgCRPWQCLcBGAs/s1600/volunteersreforestation1jkm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-83y-xQXTSwo/WWEmV_jWJII/AAAAAAAAJbM/XKTkVZ4BMcMxMNuWCTvIcJc1iRHgCRPWQCLcBGAs/s400/volunteersreforestation1jkm.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reforestation volunteers process seeds and share good times together. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It is easy for one who visits Nicaragua to think that people are pessimistic or indifferent to environmental matters. We have found quite a different reaction from the Nicaraguans who live in and around Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. Many people want to be involved, to have their desire for a green nation to be taken into account. The following photos show how locals came to help plant trees with us. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ura3wzsX_YQ/WWFhXXjxujI/AAAAAAAAJb0/E7XHuAeYtN88CiqF0uvpP4-HbkTKHOe9ACLcBGAs/s1600/refo-01-2017-ps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ura3wzsX_YQ/WWFhXXjxujI/AAAAAAAAJb0/E7XHuAeYtN88CiqF0uvpP4-HbkTKHOe9ACLcBGAs/s320/refo-01-2017-ps.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A new reforestation area is getting its first trees, with collaborations including GAIA, Cooperativa Ebert Silva, MARENA, and members of the local community. Photo Pablo Somarriba. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On a recent day in the 2017 rainy season, we carted trees into a new reforestation plot, and the local population joined in to lend their effort. The first trees were placed in the ground in an area that has resisted the return of forests for years. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4P4ltO4IjzI/WWFhXd7og9I/AAAAAAAAJbs/ifeQzyazGUI9bMwSWNExnjzHcY5xskwRwCLcBGAs/s1600/refo-02-2017-ps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4P4ltO4IjzI/WWFhXd7og9I/AAAAAAAAJbs/ifeQzyazGUI9bMwSWNExnjzHcY5xskwRwCLcBGAs/s400/refo-02-2017-ps.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Members of the local community in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve prepare holes for planting seedlings. Photo Pablo Somarriba.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There was a time when people seemed more pessimistic and skeptical of any request for help from the government or any group for effort in environmental protection. Today, however, more people think they can make a difference. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-peGX3OiWSUk/WWFhXVO7VJI/AAAAAAAAJbw/UXxY3dw-lFcRdSGWulzd08KqEJku54L5ACLcBGAs/s1600/refo-03-2017-ps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-peGX3OiWSUk/WWFhXVO7VJI/AAAAAAAAJbw/UXxY3dw-lFcRdSGWulzd08KqEJku54L5ACLcBGAs/s320/refo-03-2017-ps.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Park guards and the community prepare the site for planting trees. Photo Pablo Somarriba.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The idea that physical work such as planting trees is not for women, is pretty much a thing of the past, as well. Women participate in all kinds of activities in the local community. To see women digging and carting trees is not at all unexpected. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fowUnVcrx3Q/WWFhYrayU1I/AAAAAAAAJb4/y-IyW3pWFbsLxYUuoT5uQlAXfmunDx_UgCLcBGAs/s1600/refo-04-2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fowUnVcrx3Q/WWFhYrayU1I/AAAAAAAAJb4/y-IyW3pWFbsLxYUuoT5uQlAXfmunDx_UgCLcBGAs/s400/refo-04-2017.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trees are on their way! Photo Pablo Somarriba.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can help to save the planet, one tree at a time, too. Just like the people in these photos, you can help to plant trees and make monkeys and other wildlife have bigger and better habitats, while protecting the water of Laguna de Apoyo. If you would like to be an <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/volunteer" target="_blank">Eco-Warrior Volunteer</a>, please contact us.<br /><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P6okTRZZseM/WWFmGmOwbUI/AAAAAAAAJcI/96KpCQS_FFcy0GfFEDaSjNWKrCTDWgaRwCKgBGAs/s1600/escudo.bmp" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.717388499999998 -127.53675899999996 37.5927545 -44.568008999999961tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-6127707110755001842017-07-05T21:33:00.000-06:002017-07-05T21:33:00.592-06:00Golden-Mantled Howler Monkeys in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, Nicaragua<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
In most of Nicaragua, the most abundant and visible of the three primate species is the golden-mantled howler monkey (<i>Alouatta palliata palliata</i>). Howler monkeys have always been found in the Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, but their populations have increased dramatically in recent years. Years ago, howler monkeys were heard from Estación Biológica Laguna de Apoyo, at distances of up to a kilometer to the south. Today, they are within sight at least half the days of the year.<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oYPC-3oIx3I/WVlbnx70Z1I/AAAAAAAAJZw/jt47CibVn-svYd0WodCNaqWV13Mr-MzZwCLcBGAs/s1600/howlerbaby1jkmcomp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="howler monkey" border="2" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oYPC-3oIx3I/WVlbnx70Z1I/AAAAAAAAJZw/jt47CibVn-svYd0WodCNaqWV13Mr-MzZwCLcBGAs/s400/howlerbaby1jkmcomp.jpg" style="transform: rotate(270deg);" title="Alouatta palliata" width="294" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This baby howler monkey seems to be holding on to its mother as if on a roller coaster. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We think this special population of howler monkeys in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve merits a lot of attention. The species is protected by local law from hunting and capture for purposes such as the pet trade, and the populations are very sensitive to habitat destruction. They may never touch ground during their lifetimes, making arboreal connectivity vital to their habitat. In areas where the forest is used for fuelwood, pasture, or other purposes, entire areas may be blocked from access by them. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--d9-yV8w8YY/WVlbmPjvLSI/AAAAAAAAJZY/3FxwVFtlrAkZBI12Rp5s4zdsnE9AcMqgACLcBGAs/s1600/HesterVerheijen4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="2" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--d9-yV8w8YY/WVlbmPjvLSI/AAAAAAAAJZY/3FxwVFtlrAkZBI12Rp5s4zdsnE9AcMqgACLcBGAs/s400/HesterVerheijen4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Howler monkey. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The howler monkeys of Laguna de Apoyo, are doubly protected, as species occupying a protected area where fauna, flora and other aspects of natural habitat and landscape receive some measure of protection. Beyond these justifications for lending special attention to the howler monkeys of Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, exists yet another important reason to focus on this population. The visible success of this species as a population during the past years, in a context of diminishing populations in most species and locations in the country,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-19GtGPJAAmE/WVlbmVI93CI/AAAAAAAAJZc/TGtznv5CNPcc05TYiEvWr8mVvygDzDgcQCLcBGAs/s1600/Andras%2BDorgai%2B8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="412" height="390" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-19GtGPJAAmE/WVlbmVI93CI/AAAAAAAAJZc/TGtznv5CNPcc05TYiEvWr8mVvygDzDgcQCLcBGAs/s400/Andras%2BDorgai%2B8.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Howler monkeys often are easily seen from the patio of Estación Biológica. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
The dramatic increases in the howler monkey population in <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/lagunadeapoyo" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve</a> has meant that monkeys are found in places and circumstances that present new challenges for coexistence between humans and nature. Most of the homes along the shore now find howler monkeys in their yards many days of the year. The electric wires running through the populated areas present yet another challenge to them. Several electrocutions of monkeys have been documented over the years.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JqnWgtYWdkg/WVlbmcYkBtI/AAAAAAAAJZg/qx275cK4HaEeZUdTuq3ZacrqosD9sbEBACLcBGAs/s1600/howler1jkmcomp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="896" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JqnWgtYWdkg/WVlbmcYkBtI/AAAAAAAAJZg/qx275cK4HaEeZUdTuq3ZacrqosD9sbEBACLcBGAs/s640/howler1jkmcomp.jpg" width="547" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What can we do to make monkeys a priority in natural areas? Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Howler monkeys are classified as folivores, that is, they tend to eat leaves as their sustenance. During the dry season, when leaves are scarce, or old and dry, they may consume larger amounts of fruits. There have been notable occurrences of monkey mortality in other parts of Nicaragua, where the dry season can be quite marked, so monitoring of the monkey populations is quite important.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PdbzPPlRxTw/WVlbnB7bxnI/AAAAAAAAJZk/e88PzMAojbUZGyQvN7HB_qJ0ZvREEQFqACLcBGAs/s1600/howler2jkmcomp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="751" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PdbzPPlRxTw/WVlbnB7bxnI/AAAAAAAAJZk/e88PzMAojbUZGyQvN7HB_qJ0ZvREEQFqACLcBGAs/s640/howler2jkmcomp.jpg" width="464" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juvenile golden-mantled howler monkey. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There are lots of reasons to be studying the monkey populations. One is to ensure that the populations remain abundant and healthy, with adequate numbers of juveniles that reflect a population in constant reproduction. The quality of a healthy environment for monkeys is also important to know and understand. One aspect of a healthy monkey habitat is a selection of trees that provides year-round food in adequate amounts. The species of trees preferred as food items by howler monkeys can provide indications for reforestation activities in the area.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T3UOtW3ANOY/WVlbnAgqfBI/AAAAAAAAJZo/YbZ52NEP0tQ24upKBSfKxpmrd7W47znFwCLcBGAs/s1600/howler3jkmcomp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="1024" height="218" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T3UOtW3ANOY/WVlbnAgqfBI/AAAAAAAAJZo/YbZ52NEP0tQ24upKBSfKxpmrd7W47znFwCLcBGAs/s400/howler3jkmcomp.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Howler monkeys eat leaves of <i>Bursera simaruba,</i> a locally abundant tree species. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Anyone visiting Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve may want to spend some time finding and watching howler monkeys. If one exercises common sense regarding the respect that monkeys deserve, it can be easy to enjoy watching them without causing them any distress. One should remember always that the monkeys deserve to live in peace without any distress caused by humans.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SCqoudvuP0Q/WVlbnYIZxRI/AAAAAAAAJZs/LwSd2gKp5RkyQGgAApzbB8Lt4wGgnu8TwCLcBGAs/s1600/howler4jkmcomp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="782" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SCqoudvuP0Q/WVlbnYIZxRI/AAAAAAAAJZs/LwSd2gKp5RkyQGgAApzbB8Lt4wGgnu8TwCLcBGAs/s400/howler4jkmcomp.jpg" width="390" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The howler monkeys of Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve are easy to find and admire. Watch them with respect. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When the howler monkeys decide to come to our patio, we are always happy, and we are careful to give them the as much private space as is necessary. They are not here for our entertainment only; they exist for their own reasons, and they should be permitted to come and go as they deem appropriate, without feeling bothered by humans.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1cXEfLtLGn0/WVlboCpCOcI/AAAAAAAAJZ0/i9LmmB80VDEhtiL0oUiXdG1NWv-Ql2_cwCLcBGAs/s1600/howlerbaby3jkmcomp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1cXEfLtLGn0/WVlboCpCOcI/AAAAAAAAJZ0/i9LmmB80VDEhtiL0oUiXdG1NWv-Ql2_cwCLcBGAs/s640/howlerbaby3jkmcomp.jpg" width="472" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby rides while mother searches for food. In the dry season, monkeys tend to eat more fruits than leaves. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our concern for wildlife and the habitats they use and require is not shared by everyone, but many people agree that wildlife should receive a greater priority than people in areas designated as wild space such as the Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. There is a growing number of hotels and other spaces where the environment is completely incompatible with wildlife such as howler monkeys. At Estación Biológica Laguna de Apoyo, we stand for wildlife.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JegXkcZq_jc/WVlboRFBNnI/AAAAAAAAJZ8/6LOVQoRbZWwv62e-ROVKKGzT6am0ZvFnwCLcBGAs/s1600/howlerbaby4jkmcomp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="287" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JegXkcZq_jc/WVlboRFBNnI/AAAAAAAAJZ8/6LOVQoRbZWwv62e-ROVKKGzT6am0ZvFnwCLcBGAs/s640/howlerbaby4jkmcomp.jpg" width="408" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This baby howler monkey is still breastfeeding. She observes as her mother eats a mango. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/" target="_blank">GAIA</a></i> has conducted surveys and studies of the monkeys and other wildlife in the forests surrounding Laguna de Apoyo. If you are interested in helping to protect monkeys, study them, or just watch them, Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve is among the most ideal of locations.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mCGo9kAyWFw/WVlboqyU9TI/AAAAAAAAJZ4/iqXTf0vFEQww0431B2_NnpKNCTp_81ZQACLcBGAs/s1600/howlerbaby5jkmcomp.jpg" imageanchor="1" rotate:="" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="861" height="356" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mCGo9kAyWFw/WVlboqyU9TI/AAAAAAAAJZ4/iqXTf0vFEQww0431B2_NnpKNCTp_81ZQACLcBGAs/s400/howlerbaby5jkmcomp.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A baby monkey watches us as her mother is relaxing. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Volunteers and interns can arrange stays to help with our conservation projects and to study the relationships between wildlife and the environment in our area. We gladly receive guests and visitors any time, as well. Please come to meet us, discuss what is the latest happening in conservation in the area, and stay as long as you like.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yuJTLTql1hk/WVlbpFVeMaI/AAAAAAAAJaA/1aAxivLR3gQm8jq6GSCCTInuENIwV5AfACLcBGAs/s1600/howlermonkey5jkmcomp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="wildlife " border="0" data-original-height="731" data-original-width="1024" height="282" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yuJTLTql1hk/WVlbpFVeMaI/AAAAAAAAJaA/1aAxivLR3gQm8jq6GSCCTInuENIwV5AfACLcBGAs/s400/howlermonkey5jkmcomp.jpg" title="golden mantled howler monkey" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An adult female golden-mantled howler monkey scales a tree. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you are interested in getting involved in the protection or study of these magnificent animals, please <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">contact us</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="howler monkey" border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o1scev9kKps/WV1_l4GXFsI/AAAAAAAAJas/1cyJfHJ6qfEYSmt-tzCsHAXNmdm1iwtEACKgBGAs/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="Alouatta palliata" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.717388499999998 -127.53675899999996 37.5927545 -44.568008999999961tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-50680881185623060062017-07-03T13:15:00.003-06:002017-07-03T14:47:19.261-06:00Scientific Tourism in Estación Biológica Laguna de Apoyo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
For the second time in a week, Estación Biológica Laguna de Apoyo has received reportage in the edition 3 July, 2017 of <a href="http://www.elnuevodiario.com.ni/turismo/432601-turismo-cientifico-laguna-apoyo/" target="_blank">El Nuevo Diario</a>. Our research station is a point of participation for the protection of Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, through activities in scientific research, environmental education, and conservation activities. Click on the link above and take a look!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eo3gKUkhKDQ/WVqOyFUhbKI/AAAAAAAAJaQ/HADh7t9nk_EaOGk_mAR39RyyHX7H0zEoQCLcBGAs/s1600/jeffreymccrarybuceo-gareyknop1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="scuba dive Nicaragua" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eo3gKUkhKDQ/WVqOyFUhbKI/AAAAAAAAJaQ/HADh7t9nk_EaOGk_mAR39RyyHX7H0zEoQCLcBGAs/s400/jeffreymccrarybuceo-gareyknop1.jpg" title="dive Nicaragua" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>GAIA</i> scientist Jeffrey McCrary conducts underwater monitoring in Laguna de Apoyo. Photo Garey Knop.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
How to make a center for research, conservation, and education work, we have found, is not easy. We often are in debt, but we carry on. There are plenty of gratifying moments and activities for all of us, which is why we continue. We get to help in small ways to cure nature of the ills caused by humans, through rescue of wild animals, planting and caring for trees, recycling, organizing, educating, coordinating with communities and the government, studying the issues facing the continued protection of the area, and developing policy recommendations. One of the many examples of our success is found in the long list of <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/publications" target="_blank">publications</a> in which we have been involved.<br />
<br />
A few areas in which we have worked are mentioned in the cited article. We were involved in getting motorboats and jet skis off the lake permanently. This has been a great advance in the protection of the nature inside the lake, and also makes for a much more pleasant and safe experience for all. Boats have meant ugly noises and danger from constant encroachment onto the spaces of swimmers. Everyone, except the few boaters, are glad they are gone. There are plenty of places to take motorboats, such as Lake Nicaragua, so all people win by the elimination of motorboats from Laguna de Apoyo.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rAM3emlmtQU/WVqTMt-ag4I/AAAAAAAAJaU/f2yGL8E8Nm4Kl8lcCsF9Yt_nDnDGRfLDACLcBGAs/s1600/amphilophuschancho-adrianuskonings2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Laguna de Apoyo" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rAM3emlmtQU/WVqTMt-ag4I/AAAAAAAAJaU/f2yGL8E8Nm4Kl8lcCsF9Yt_nDnDGRfLDACLcBGAs/s320/amphilophuschancho-adrianuskonings2.jpg" title="Scientific tourism" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The chancho cichlid, Amphilophus chancho, is one of five fish species from Laguna de Apoyo discovered in studies coordinated by <i>GAIA</i>. Photo Adrianus Konings.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our group has discovered <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2012/09/dive-laguna-de-apoyo_18.html" target="_blank">five species of fish</a> that are only found in <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/lagunadeapoyo" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo</a>. All of these species are descendants of the parent fish of the so-called <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/research" target="_blank">Midas cichlid</a> (<i>Amphilophus citrinellus</i>). Research coordinated by <i>GAIA</i> demonstrated that the five species in Laguna de Apoyo are genetically distinct from forms in all the other natural areas inhabited by the Midas cichlid.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/scuba" target="_blank">Scuba divers</a> can join us in monitoring activities on the fish populations in the lake. We are the only approved dive center in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, and we conduct all our activities in cooperation with the local municipal authorities, MINSA, MARENA, and INTUR.<br />
<br />
<i><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/gaia" target="_blank">GAIA</a></i> maintains the costs of operation of <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estación Biológica Laguna de Apoyo</a> through visits, donations, sales of lunch and coffee, hostel stay, and training activities such as intensive Spanish courses. We hope you visit us and get to know what we do. Please come by or write us.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NSKcV6U-FrU/WVqU-dCSvPI/AAAAAAAAJaY/YjLhLgcTBqIUWIPX5R4fgEYSJchGDyXGACKgBGAs/s1600/escudo.bmp" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.717388499999998 -127.53675899999996 37.5927545 -44.568008999999961tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-19497681825712921132017-07-01T23:14:00.000-06:002017-07-12T23:31:36.915-06:00Animal Rescue XXIII: Variegated Squirrels<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Some wild animals can be cute, at least at a distance, under controlled conditions, or perhaps just when they are juveniles. Most wild animals, however, demonstrate at some moment that they are wild by acting aggressively, or by feeling depressed or stressed in conditions of confinement. The cuteness and uniqueness of an exotic animal can seduce the most logical of people into thinking that they can provide adequate conditions to a wild animal so that it will actually be happy and willing to act like a domesticated animal, by showing attachment, obeying commands, and generally acting in a safe manner.<br />
<br />
An entire genre of movies has recently emerged, showing wild animals acting in human-like ways, sometimes in Happy Feet-style fantasies. A common theme among them is the connection between humans and the animals. The wildness of the animals is almost always conquered by the goodness of people.<br />
<br />
The best term for this sentiment is hubris.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cclet6T9m_4/WVgm3rwdLPI/AAAAAAAAJX0/LsvJogu55K0Wh-cl_hzk-NHgl8wWcoiFgCLcBGAs/s1600/Andras%2BDorgai%2B6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cclet6T9m_4/WVgm3rwdLPI/AAAAAAAAJX0/LsvJogu55K0Wh-cl_hzk-NHgl8wWcoiFgCLcBGAs/s400/Andras%2BDorgai%2B6.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of several variegated squirrels taken from the pet trade and brought to Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo to transition back to the wild. Photo Andras Dorgai. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This hubris is multiplied when a poor animal is placed for sale at a street light in Managua. So often, we see wild animals such as parrots, toucans, monkeys and even an occasional feline for sale, all bidding to enchant someone enough to plop down a little money and take the animal home to convert it into a family pet.<br />
<br />
Purchasing wild animals as pets presents a terrible threat to the populations of animals in the wild. Captures of wild animals for use as pets have decimated the populations of animals such as <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2015/06/animal-rescue-xvi-macaws-in-estacion.html" target="_blank">Scarlet Macaw</a> and the <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2015/11/wild-animal-rescue-xviii-white-faced.html" target="_blank">white-faced capuchin monkey</a> in almost all areas throughout the country.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fzAx3HE7jB0/WVgnCpbGIgI/AAAAAAAAJYA/XmK0xTpuaMsVVBkKJQM0rKc5L165GXq8gCLcBGAs/s1600/17974893_1449373981749565_806362663_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fzAx3HE7jB0/WVgnCpbGIgI/AAAAAAAAJYA/XmK0xTpuaMsVVBkKJQM0rKc5L165GXq8gCLcBGAs/s400/17974893_1449373981749565_806362663_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once wild animals have been made into pets, they may face a difficult transition back into the wild. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
But the impacts humans have over wild animals because of the pet trade does not stop with the placement of animals who were once wild into cages and forcing them to live in captivity. The habitats where these animals lived is often ravaged to get the animals out. Fire is an effective hunting technique, driving animals from holes in the ground or in large trees. These sites as effective refugia for wild animals are lost, and often, the fires rage onward because the hunters rarely make special efforts to put out the fires they started.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03kHAW-p27w/WVgnCQvV0oI/AAAAAAAAJX8/mYd7401nQXADUvq2h-pee-mmNx03va0IgCLcBGAs/s1600/18596798_308752639555153_188662365_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03kHAW-p27w/WVgnCQvV0oI/AAAAAAAAJX8/mYd7401nQXADUvq2h-pee-mmNx03va0IgCLcBGAs/s640/18596798_308752639555153_188662365_o.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juvenile squirrels sleep as much as twenty hours per day, in confined spaces in nests, which can be imitated by a bundle of cloths. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We do get a particular pleasure from the rehabilitation of <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2013/07/animal-rescue-xiii-variegated-squirrel.html" target="_blank">variegated squirrels</a> (<i><a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2011/06/video-variegated-squirrel-in-laguna-de.html" target="_blank">Sciurus variegatoides</a></i>). Baby squirrels are often captured by animal traffickers by knocking down nests from the tops of trees, and picking up the baby squirrels that survive the fall. The adults, strong and hostile with sharp teeth, are much less interesting as potential pets than the docile and dependent babies. Once in our hands, they must be handled to give the animals the social interactions they need and to assure that they are feeding well and getting sufficient stimulation and exercise.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nUWPMCgA9dE/WVgnCQTMJRI/AAAAAAAAJX4/S7dPCHQ_fA0L0s5wg3X4Qk8iO-ablSisACLcBGAs/s1600/18624585_308752056221878_2094851162_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="320" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nUWPMCgA9dE/WVgnCQTMJRI/AAAAAAAAJX4/S7dPCHQ_fA0L0s5wg3X4Qk8iO-ablSisACLcBGAs/s640/18624585_308752056221878_2094851162_n.jpg" width="449" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squirrels adapted to humans may even prefer to climb on them over scaling trees. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Little by little, squirrels can be reacquainted with their natural habitats. This species of squirrel rarely comes to the ground, finding plenty of bark, small insects and other fauna, fruits and nuts, year-round, high in trees. By coming and going from the security of a well-equipped cage, with a door open, the squirrels can choose to sleep, play, feed, and so on, all through the day. Juvenile squirrels can develop their interest in these foods and habitats little by little, until they may lose their interest in humans entirely.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ts5gY5Qc5Ag/WVgok4h_SMI/AAAAAAAAJYY/Im5nLuk9VHkOUN_53Zam6KD1-0wGyq67QCLcBGAs/s1600/P1110782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ts5gY5Qc5Ag/WVgok4h_SMI/AAAAAAAAJYY/Im5nLuk9VHkOUN_53Zam6KD1-0wGyq67QCLcBGAs/s400/P1110782.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whenever safe to do so, juvenile squirrels are allowed to enter and leave their cage at will, so they can get exercise, explore, and socialize with wild squirrels nearby. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Whenever squirrels or other wildlife have lost their fear of humans, the dangers they face are abundant. First, they may wander into the hands of people who will capture them all over again and carry them back into the pet trade. Second, they face dangers from domestic animals, cars, and even the risk of being stepped upon can be high. Third, pets may also carry viruses that can affect them.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WxSy4h_7Gss/WVgomI_SypI/AAAAAAAAJYc/g2H61p4QvDkvzUipLPDvSBnuFm_lHe87gCLcBGAs/s1600/P1110796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WxSy4h_7Gss/WVgomI_SypI/AAAAAAAAJYc/g2H61p4QvDkvzUipLPDvSBnuFm_lHe87gCLcBGAs/s400/P1110796.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squirrels quickly learn whose hand does the feeding. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once a squirrel has become accustomed to humans, it must learn to find food, socialize with wild squirrels, and stay away from <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2013/07/animal-rescue-xii-squirrel-hunters.html" target="_blank">danger</a>. Perhaps the single most difficult barrier to returning to the wild, however, is to have a shelter in which to sleep. Young squirrels may make a shelter on their own, without the help of other squirrels, or they may be allowed to enter into the nests made by other squirrels.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yb4FgzN87LY/WVhZHiaRlQI/AAAAAAAAJY4/bLcOpqxVRuQbhEinxmM3-Dqp92yKa25aACLcBGAs/s1600/P1110906.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yb4FgzN87LY/WVhZHiaRlQI/AAAAAAAAJY4/bLcOpqxVRuQbhEinxmM3-Dqp92yKa25aACLcBGAs/s400/P1110906.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even though Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve is a protected area with priority given to native species, cats abound in properties controlled by foreigners. This squirrel, once free and living in the trees above us, was caught by a cat from The Peace Project, and did not survive its wounds. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sometimes, a wild animal is successfully reintroduced into the wild. Squirrels will sometimes survive, and their wild character may return, and they may reintegrate into the community of squirrels in the area. When this happens we are always grateful for all the efforts of so many people who participated in bringing food, spending time to provide care, clean cages, and even provide logistics. Each successful reintroduction into the wild results as the culmination of the efforts of many people.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OlQEkfpA2CA/WVhZAZG37zI/AAAAAAAAJYw/gWok1f4PBSI7fuAyEg33g9Hg5hTZREiwACLcBGAs/s1600/P1110728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1483" data-original-width="1600" height="368" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OlQEkfpA2CA/WVhZAZG37zI/AAAAAAAAJYw/gWok1f4PBSI7fuAyEg33g9Hg5hTZREiwACLcBGAs/s400/P1110728.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Socialization from humans may substitute for the relationships lost from the members of their species for social animals such as squirrels. Eventually, however, they must develop relationships with their own species in the wild setting, to prosper in the wild. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-gmRhiUWJE/WVhY8mYRU0I/AAAAAAAAJYs/Oc0Wq0N63nwe0VlSH10AzOVmBEbS8LMXACLcBGAs/s1600/P1110751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1154" data-original-width="1600" height="287" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-gmRhiUWJE/WVhY8mYRU0I/AAAAAAAAJYs/Oc0Wq0N63nwe0VlSH10AzOVmBEbS8LMXACLcBGAs/s400/P1110751.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These squirrels are beginning to learn to spend their days foraging in trees. They are still returning each night to sleep in their cage. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UqB6OfzV5ow/WVhZDmyTlLI/AAAAAAAAJY0/BgwYznnETx8EkdqHGX2wcp0e-WfWQbxQwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1110766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UqB6OfzV5ow/WVhZDmyTlLI/AAAAAAAAJY0/BgwYznnETx8EkdqHGX2wcp0e-WfWQbxQwCLcBGAs/s400/P1110766.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Variegated squirrels may lose their fear of humans after being caught, so that they may actually prefer to be with people to spending their days in the trees. But little by little, with encouragement, they learn skills for feeding and socialization in their arboreal environment, eventually to never return. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Would you like to help us <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2013/04/animal-rescue-xi-variegated-squirrel.html" target="_blank">rescue and rehabilitate wild animals in Nicaragua</a>? Please contact us to find out how you can help by donating food, a cage, or by giving your time as a <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/volunteer" target="_blank">volunteer</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9RNA6kL43fI/WVhpmGUQIpI/AAAAAAAAJZE/5cAaNjh5R2gk-s5r5s54Y-SlmMX2JjlXgCKgBGAs/s1600/escudo.bmp" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.717388499999998 -127.53675899999996 37.5927545 -44.568008999999961tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-88184461736057934442017-06-30T10:25:00.000-06:002017-06-30T11:05:44.843-06:00Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo in El Nuevo Diario<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The volcanic crater lakes of Nicaragua were once again the subject of a <a href="http://www.elnuevodiario.com.ni/nacionales/432344-proponen-convertir-lagunas-cratericas-centros-inve/" target="_blank">news article in El Nuevo Diario</a> this week. Anyone who has visited the <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/lagunadeapoyo" target="_blank">volcanic crater lakes of Nicaragua</a> would agree that they are quite unique. As a group, they are isolated lakes, without any open water channel connecting any of them to any other water body. Their connection through the water table, with slow filtering of water through the sediments and rocks which eliminates the passage of animals and even microorganisms to and from each lake.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7doUuoEiejs/WVZ1dhzjEGI/AAAAAAAAJXk/cEZ11HMOP48H_J0GUC0eaOZYjQxydVJ-QCKgBGAs/s1600/100_1829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7doUuoEiejs/WVZ1dhzjEGI/AAAAAAAAJXk/cEZ11HMOP48H_J0GUC0eaOZYjQxydVJ-QCKgBGAs/s400/100_1829.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>GAIA</i> has been active in studying and protecting the fauna and flora of Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It is precisely this isolation that makes the volcanic crater lakes of particular importance to the study of biodiversity and evolution, and consequently, gives them priority as objects of protection for the conservation of the unique fauna in each lake. The majority of the volcanic crater lakes in Nicaragua have been studied to determine what fish species are found in them. The principal study which documented these lakes was conducted by our group in <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/Waidcraterlakefishes.pdf" target="_blank">eight of the volcanic crater lakes</a>, resulting in twenty new distributional records for fish in the country. Prior work had been performed by Jaime Villa, Padre Ignacio Astorqui, and George Barlow, all of whom had conducted some amount of fish studies in one or more volcanic crater lakes.<br />
<br />
Each of these eight lakes that have been studied contain unique fauna. Laguna de Apoyo, for instance, is the only wild habitat in the world for six species of fish; Laguna de Xiloa, for another five species. The other, less well-studied lakes on this list, definitely contain unique fish species, as well.<br />
<br />
A former employee of our group has more recently sounded the call to name the volcanic crater lakes, collectively, a World Heritage Site, through UNESCO. This idea is not new; in fact, it has been floated repeatedly for the past twenty or so years. While some people host press conferences to hijack ideas for their personal aggrandizement, we are busy doing the things that protect the natural areas of Nicaragua and the biodiversity at risk found in them. For years, <i><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/connservation" target="_blank">GAIA</a></i> has been on the front lines of defense of the lakes from senseless destruction of the natural resource base in these fragile ecosystems. Although many of the actions go unnoticed by the public, a few have had a larger profile. For instance, <i>GAIA</i> director <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/jeffreymccrary" target="_blank">Jeffrey McCrary</a> served as the coordinator for the development and approval of the <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/PlandemanejoLagunadeApoyo.pdf" target="_blank">official management plan for the Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve</a>. The majority of the entries in this blog deal with the activities of <i>GAIA</i> inside that protected area, although several entries deal with other volcanic crater lakes, as well. In summary, we have been there, advocating for the protection of each of these jewels, with real actions resulting in new knowledge and better policy and protection.<br />
<br />
In places like Nicaragua, it is easy to find people who want to be in the spotlight, especially foreigners who jet around from country to country, who talk about peace, or saving children from poverty, or the environment. Sometimes, such as in this example, there is not much behind their grandstanding. The real struggle is not about press conferences with grand proposals, but rather, in the trenches, <a href="http://gaianicaragua.org/schoolxiloa.html" target="_blank">building schools for poor people</a>, spending countless hours dedicated to community involvement in the decision-making processes for <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/conservation" target="_blank">natural resource use and protection</a>, and sleepless nights in the thankless job of making a few hours in the forest or under the water turn into <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/research" target="_blank">peer-reviewed, accepted research publications</a> that provide meaningful justification to protect special places such as the volcanic crater lakes of Nicaragua.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ynklBTqYZH8/WVZ1U_SYN3I/AAAAAAAAJXg/iTT32A-EduwTCSe7XFqBWOGLcVdOETGvACKgBGAs/s1600/100_1826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Estacion Biologica" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ynklBTqYZH8/WVZ1U_SYN3I/AAAAAAAAJXg/iTT32A-EduwTCSe7XFqBWOGLcVdOETGvACKgBGAs/s400/100_1826.JPG" title="Estacion Biologica" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GAIA is present and active in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It was not lost on us that someone would discuss the volcanic crater lakes of Nicaragua in the press as if there were no current and historic initiatives to protect them, and even less surprising that it would come from a foreigner who feels the need to plant himself as protagonist in an effort that needs him to accomplish something that no one in Nicaragua could accomplish without his grandeur. It is absurd to think that someone would propose research stations in these natural areas, as if <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/publications" target="_blank">no research had ever been conducted and published already</a>. We have come accustomed to this type of attitude, and we continue to do what we do, as small as it may seem at times. Our organization, unlike other supposed organizations, is real, solvent, and active. We are in constant communication with the communities where we have alliances and with the relevant institutions of government to assure that what we do is appropriate on all levels.<br />
<br />
We invite you to visit us at <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo</a> or write us and get to know us. We seek alliances of all kinds, to work hand in hand wherever possible, to keep nature wild and free in Nicaragua. Please <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">contact us</a>!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="gaia" border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-24nvo-chTvA/WVZzSM1oV4I/AAAAAAAAJXU/KaJ46n7Nlk4-gETw_Rm1UYmtXseRRTOCACKgBGAs/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="gaia" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Nicaragua12.865416 -85.2072289999999848.8842005 -90.392775999999984 16.8466315 -80.021681999999984tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-7063880596406831552017-06-15T10:56:00.000-06:002017-06-20T17:47:56.288-06:00The Paris Disagreements<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TZO0uhW2EwA/WUK5776xuhI/AAAAAAAAJW8/Q6XJzWj6yoIjCJW91tHuHUieEJnx-Ej5QCKgBGAs/s1600/howler_4_mdg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="climate change" border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="1024" height="170" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TZO0uhW2EwA/WUK5776xuhI/AAAAAAAAJW8/Q6XJzWj6yoIjCJW91tHuHUieEJnx-Ej5QCKgBGAs/s320/howler_4_mdg.jpg" title="monkeys" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What planet are we leaving for them?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Nicaragua is self-described for decades as the country "where lead floats and cork sinks". The country has steadfastly defied the conventional wisdom generated, promoted and supported by the rest of the world. Whether on the national, political level, or in the barrio, Nicaraguan thought has tended to take turns that did not always come from the playbook provided.<br />
<br />
Recent world events have once again brought the country into the forefront of the news. Nicaragua shares the dubious honor of accompanying two other nations that are not united in the recent Paris accords regarding climate change. The accords were uncharacteristically broad and bland that virtually every nation signed on, even the stubborn government of North Korea. Syria, distracted by a bloodbath within its borders, did not sign, nor did it protest. The nation which aspires and daily claims to be the greatest nation on the planet, the United States of America, signed, but its new leader, Donald Trump, declared the agreement to be inequitable toward the USA. His opposition to the agreement and intention to depart from it was declared recently.<br />
<br />
It has been said that politics makes strange bedfellows. With the dismaying declarations of the President of the United States, Nicaragua is strangely united into a unique club of those outside the Paris accord, this space with a failed nation and a tragically misguided empire.<br />
<br />
All this is important to note, because of the gravity of climate change on human life and wild nature globally. Paleontologists have declared the current times a new geological epoch, in which the human influence on the climate becomes indelible. The effect of modern society, in these terms, on temperatures, atmospheric composition, and weather processes, has become paramount. Among the few decision-makers who dare to question that humans are provoking long-term impacts on the climate which threaten even the survivability of our own species on this planet, are only those who are in position to benefit directly from its negation, such as the new head of the Environmental Protection Agency.<br />
<br />
An anthropological analysis of the government of the USA and the sides of the debate regarding climate change belies the self-interest of individuals who gain from pretending that the obvious is happening. In contrast, the government of Nicaragua has taken a posture which can be criticized and discussed, but its relevance to history is indisputable. Climate change is real, it affects the quality of life of humans, and the distribution of impacts among humans is unequal. Poor people, worldwide, bear the brunt of the negative effects of climate change. Unlike the USA, the government of Nicaragua has not sought to negate the relation between human activities and the environment, but rather to accentuate that poor nations are victims of a kind of climate-imperialism imposed by the richer nations, especially those set in the temperate zones of the northern hemisphere.<br />
<br />
As <i>Gaia</i> director Jeffrey McCrary, states in a recent essay published in <a href="http://www.elnuevodiario.com.ni/opinion/430985-desacuerdos-paris/" target="_blank">El Nuevo Diario</a>, the posture of Nicaragua regarding the accords sets the country far apart from that of the USA. The government of Nicaragua has made deep commitments toward the environment, particularly regarding greenhouse gas emissions, whereas the government of the USA is backpedaling. We need urgently to establish what climate change will mean to Nicaragua, in terms of shorelines, ecosystems, habitats for fauna in both the land and in the waters of the country, the impacts on populations regarding agriculture, vulnerability to storms and drought, livability regarding temperatures.... so many things!<br />
<br />
Monkey die-offs, water wells going dry, lake levels dropping, crop failures, floods, hurricanes that flatten areas. The rapid advance of the agricultural frontier. Median temperature rise. What more evidence do we need?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WTNt0tBXB90/WUK5v5JzXeI/AAAAAAAAJW4/HEisU8u7NK8wgKNvvbWRt4NTPzfXkScnwCKgBGAs/s1600/escudo.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="climate change" border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WTNt0tBXB90/WUK5v5JzXeI/AAAAAAAAJW4/HEisU8u7NK8wgKNvvbWRt4NTPzfXkScnwCKgBGAs/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="Nicaragua" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the 'escudo' to contact us at <i>GAIA</i>. </a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Nicaragua12.865416 -85.2072289999999848.8842005 -90.392775999999984 16.8466315 -80.021681999999984tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-35300108601101282522017-05-22T17:29:00.003-06:002017-05-25T15:31:17.506-06:00Learning Spanish in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
There are several aspects to <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/spanish" target="_blank">learning Spanish</a> that are all important. The first, and most vital, is to learn as much as possible, to become as fluent as one can be, to make understanding the magical world of Nicaragua more open and understandable. So many people, especially tourists, come to Nicaragua without understanding much of the language, bumbling their way through the country, dependent upon the translation skills of someone else.<br />
<br />
Once a person can manage the most basic of the Spanish language skills necessary to survive as a backpacker, tourist, or worker without the aid of others, doors begin to open. Suddenly, Nicaragua consists of more than Granada, Leon, and a few beach towns. There are places to go, things to do, and increasingly, as one learns to speak the language, people with whom to share. As those who live in Nicaragua for long periods can attest, the best that Nicaragua has to offer is off the beaten path. It is at once the geography, the landscapes, and the people. The key to the most intimate levels of sharing culture is language.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DTc0RJrOciU/WSNQZZb9qQI/AAAAAAAAJV4/-8wMs-4Y3Ig8_eCTyraAkL5wfGiqIUe0QCLcB/s1600/P1110696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Nicaragua Spanish Schools" border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DTc0RJrOciU/WSNQZZb9qQI/AAAAAAAAJV4/-8wMs-4Y3Ig8_eCTyraAkL5wfGiqIUe0QCLcB/s400/P1110696.JPG" title="Nicaragua Spanish School" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spanish classes at Apoyo Spanish School are held in the natural setting of Laguna de Apoyo. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Languages have many dimensions and interconnections. Thankfully for those who speak very little Spanish, Nicaragua is very open and friendly to visitors with little language capacity, but the "real Nicaragua" is awaiting the people who can communicate effectively. Furthermore, work requirements also demand excellent language skills. Basically, every level of accomplishment in a language opens the door to higher, richer and more complex levels.<br />
<br />
Apoyo Spanish School is the oldest of the intensive Spanish schools in Nicaragua. It is the best place to learn, for the person who is serious about learning, regardless of the level. We have special courses for beginners, as well as tailor-made courses for the more advanced students. Advanced students can go deep into literature and technical discourse with teachers who are prepared for the most subtle issues of the language. We even teach the teachers-most of the long-lasting <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2016/02/workshop-for-spanish-language-teachers.html" target="_blank">Spanish schools</a> in Nicaragua have benefited from training given to their teachers by us.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zP2jnbnchTk/WSNQHcozr9I/AAAAAAAAJV0/qstUIMhb24wAknCGEya2FYHO-aUvE5RFACLcB/s1600/P1110705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Apoyo Spanish school" border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zP2jnbnchTk/WSNQHcozr9I/AAAAAAAAJV0/qstUIMhb24wAknCGEya2FYHO-aUvE5RFACLcB/s400/P1110705.jpg" title="Apoyo Spanish School" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lake is just steps away from us at Apoyo Spanish School, permitting students to combine rigorous courses with relaxing swims, kayaking and scuba diving. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Often, people think they will go from "hola!" to giving public speeches and participating in debates in Spanish in merely a couple of weeks. First of all, learning rates differ among people dramatically. Young adults learn language more rapidly than older adults, although our experience has proven that even into the eighth decade of life, people can improve their Spanish school measurably in just a week of study. Secondly, the rates at which students learn may be limited by what the students do outside the class period. Those who insist on staying in Spanish all day, taking only brief breaks to converse or communicate in their native language during the day, learn much more than those who spend their evenings chatting with other non-Spanish speakers.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XJVhTFWCSdg/WSNQbMKxI2I/AAAAAAAAJV8/FTCv_Tsq1JYPlWs-XTCTvD_iJ0Eu6AR7gCLcB/s1600/P1110722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="learning Spanish" border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XJVhTFWCSdg/WSNQbMKxI2I/AAAAAAAAJV8/FTCv_Tsq1JYPlWs-XTCTvD_iJ0Eu6AR7gCLcB/s400/P1110722.JPG" title="Nicaragua Spanish School" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After classes, time at the lake, in the forest, visiting the nearby towns, or helping out with tasks at Estacion Biologica are all awaiting. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sometimes, Spanish students in an intensive language program such as at Apoyo Spanish School may feel daunted by the concentration on verb conjugations in their Spanish class. It may be difficult for a beginner to appreciate that verbs in Spanish are much more loaded with meaning than in English. Our classes go beyond just pointing and grunting, to provide a solid foundation in the Spanish language so the student can make further progress effectively, after going on beyond a single round of Spanish classes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_YPCU7q0SE0/WSNR7VdArqI/AAAAAAAAJWI/423DBp9NW1k3K21V9sqQdmQdJcvuA3_YACLcB/s1600/_1110701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Spanish classes" border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_YPCU7q0SE0/WSNR7VdArqI/AAAAAAAAJWI/423DBp9NW1k3K21V9sqQdmQdJcvuA3_YACLcB/s400/_1110701.jpg" title="Nicaragua Spanish School" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spanish classes with individual instruction may be exhausting, but a huge learning experience, which benefits the student greatly. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The objectives for learning a language may vary considerably among people, as well as their learning rates and their levels of management of the Spanish language when entering in classes at <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/school" target="_blank">Apoyo Spanish School</a>. We offer group classes for absolute beginners, in an economical program that also includes lots of volunteering, which we call the "<a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/spanishbackpackers" target="_blank">backpackers' Spanish program</a>". This course, at a considerable discount from the one-on-one classes, incorporates dorm stay and lots of volunteering to make the program more economical for the traveler on a budget.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JQFs4PErtRM/WSNSCgDLiVI/AAAAAAAAJWM/1flzJU7yyQs4nykUZHy8OFNQjpwQ_Bz8wCLcB/s1600/P1110706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Spanish course" border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JQFs4PErtRM/WSNSCgDLiVI/AAAAAAAAJWM/1flzJU7yyQs4nykUZHy8OFNQjpwQ_Bz8wCLcB/s400/P1110706.jpg" title="Apoyo Spanish School" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why study Spanish in a stuffy room when you can have fresh air and nature around? Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In contrast, one-on-one classes can be had for Spanish students at any level. Teachers make a study plan with the student after an initial evaluation and consideration of the ability and level of the student. Additionally, homework is assigned to give the student direction in after-hours practice. Furthermore, the activities and informal conversations with the staff and friends reinforce the language skills learned in the day.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mQL6CDCfqTw/WSNSKXDrG5I/AAAAAAAAJWQ/0eXAkj2riNwCQlCkxmUwQWlj2PblTaUSgCLcB/s1600/Andras%2BDorgai%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Nicaragua" border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mQL6CDCfqTw/WSNSKXDrG5I/AAAAAAAAJWQ/0eXAkj2riNwCQlCkxmUwQWlj2PblTaUSgCLcB/s400/Andras%2BDorgai%2B2.jpg" title="Laguna de Apoyo" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Among the greatest attractions in Nicaragua is Laguna de Apoyo. Come, study, and enjoy! Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="Nicaragua Spanish Schools" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d7qTG686U9c/WSNxtvOhlPI/AAAAAAAAJWo/kqfMInGIPbshwTYFoVebMSgfjY6WazCFACLcB/s1600/escudo%2Bmejorado.gif" title="Apoyo Spanish School" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Masaya Department, Nicaragua11.944857810158588 -86.04256840117187711.882377810158587 -86.123592401171877 12.007337810158589 -85.961544401171878tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-66385611956082045562017-05-21T15:00:00.004-06:002017-05-25T13:56:06.654-06:00Animal Rescue XXII: (Yet another) Pacific Screech-Owl<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
When we receive a wild animal to rescue at <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo</a>, we can not always predict what will happen. Sometimes, the <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2013/07/animal-rescue-xii-squirrel-hunters.html" target="_blank">animals are injured</a> so badly that little can be done, beyond securing a peaceful hospice for its last hours of life. But, sometimes, animals with injuries may recover, even when their injuries may have appeared gruesome or grave, initially. The owl brought to us last week is another surprise of this sort, with an unexpectedly happy ending.<br />
<br />
Perhaps the most common of the owls in the inhabited portion of the <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/lagunadeapoyo" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve</a> is the <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/pacificscreechowl" target="_blank">Pacific Screech-Owl</a> (<i>Megascops cooperi</i>). Its range is limited to the dry tropical forest habitats, farmlands and even residential areas, near the Pacific coast from the Isthmus of Tihuantepec to northwestern Costa Rica.<br />
<br />
This species is called <i>corococa</i> locally, in homage to its lively call, which is often answered in kind among the members of a social group. It consumes mostly arthropods, although it is thought to take small rodents, as well. A biological control over some potential nuisances may be managed by its presence, making it a beneficial species to have nearby. Nonetheless, local people often kill any wildlife within view, especially when associated with negative myths, as are owls in the Nicaraguan culture.<br />
<br />
Although the Pacific Screech-Owl is not active during the daytime, it often roosts in plain view, on low branches of trees, where its camouflage may keep it unnoticed by humans and other fauna. Nonetheless, if seen, it is likely that Nicaraguans, full of myths about owls and generally hostile to any wild animals within view, will attack an owl with intent to harm. In fact, the <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2017/03/animal-rescue-xix-pacific-screech-owl.html" target="_blank">Pacific Screech-Owl</a> is among the more commonly received bird species by us at <i><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/" target="_blank">GAIA</a></i>. The subject of this report, brought to us just a couple of weeks ago in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, was an injured fledgling.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FAILATPBukU/WSGqrIPZxVI/AAAAAAAAJVQ/yFB-EbuYl8MDetOUacCjsCx_7t-YLhRMACLcB/s1600/owl2may2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Megascops cooperi" border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FAILATPBukU/WSGqrIPZxVI/AAAAAAAAJVQ/yFB-EbuYl8MDetOUacCjsCx_7t-YLhRMACLcB/s400/owl2may2017.jpg" title="Pacific Screech-Owl" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juvenile Pacific Screech-Owl, rescued in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, Nicaragua. Photo Jeffrey McCrary. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This young owl, surely having been flying only days of its life, was found by neighbors, Claudio Arnaudo and Jimmy, who work at a nearby hotel in Laguna de Apoyo. The poor bird was plagued with lesions of different kinds. One eye had swollen shut from trauma. Another lesion, possibly caused in a fall, was evident beneath the beak. A wing was bruised and missing about ten of its flight feathers. As owls tend to be, the little animal was hostile to all who approached. Its injuries impeded flying, however, so there was little it could do, beyond menacing looks and tight grips with the sharp talons, against those who bothered it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zLrd2ckPNm8/WSGq_rdQXjI/AAAAAAAAJVU/lAXGQuz9tQ4OvP-5fZgkG_V9_HKDdYrogCLcB/s1600/owlmay2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pacific Screech-Owl" border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zLrd2ckPNm8/WSGq_rdQXjI/AAAAAAAAJVU/lAXGQuz9tQ4OvP-5fZgkG_V9_HKDdYrogCLcB/s400/owlmay2017.jpg" title="Megascops cooperi" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pacific Screech-Owl perched on a wall at Estacion Biologica, Laguna de Apoyo, Photo Pablo Somarriba.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After several days, during which it refused all food offered, we thought that the poor owl would soon be dead. Yet, it maintained strength. Then, one evening, we noticed that the owl was communicating with the local, wild owls. Small peeps were emanating from the cage, in evident response to the characteristic calls from the trees.<br />
<br />
The wing, still missing half its flight feathers, had nonetheless recovered mobility and some of its strength. We left the owl out of its cage to see what would happen. After a few false starts, the owl was gone.<br />
<br />
The following dawn, however, the owl appeared once again, at the same place where it was left free. Its adventure over, it had returned to familiar, if confined, surroundings. This time, the owl was placed back into the cage, but with the cage door maintained open, in case it developed an urge to go back to the wild.<br />
<br />
The next evening, owls were heard and spotted nearby. The fledgling owl was once again taken out and placed outside the cage, and this time, we watched as the other owls flew in. The injured owl had friends, this was clear, and this time, it took flight and left with them, not to return. One more wild bird in the forests of Nicaragua, mission accomplished.<br />
<br />
In the following video, the fledgling owl is approached by another owl. Whether the owl was fed or simply visited, what is clear is that a firm association was developed.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/f0AwrAFp5SQ/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/f0AwrAFp5SQ?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
The story of this fledgling owl, adopted by the local owl-family, was unexpected. Furthermore, we are left to wonder if, indeed, the owl had been getting fed by the local owls through the bars of the cage, all along. That possibility would explain why the health of the owl improved, even though it seemingly was not eating. Regardless, we are glad that the owl could enjoy another day as a free animal, to live and die in the forest instead of in a cage. One more animal that was a victim to the aggression of senseless people was saved and returned to the wild. This owl, given another chance at life in the wild, is free in its natural environment, thanks to the attentiveness and kindness of Claudio and Jimmy. <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2017/04/animal-rescue-xx-kinkajou.html" target="_blank">Wild animal rescue</a>, sometimes, can be very gratifying.<br />
<br />
We at <i><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/" target="_blank">GAIA</a></i> are working to make Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, and other places in Nicaragua, friendly habitats for wild nature. You can help us to reduce human-wildlife conflicts, provide environmental education, and conduct scientific research on topics of importance to the environment in Nicaragua. Please join us by sending a contribution or volunteering.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Birds" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sX5iU4_1SBI/WSH8dSTXVrI/AAAAAAAAJVk/CFqALH_vtLMdZX7d4aLHG0yLoGyncFsGwCLcB/s1600/escudo.jpg" title="Pacific Screech-Owl" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform.html" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Masaya Department, Nicaragua11.942842469439107 -86.0460016287109411.880362469439106 -86.127025628710939 12.005322469439108 -85.96497762871094tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-14817240783036121522017-04-10T20:01:00.001-06:002017-05-08T22:56:48.400-06:00Laguna de Apoyo at dawn<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/lagunadeapoyo" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo</a> is called a "laguna", but this term is neither the generally used term in English, nor in Spanish. It is a water-filled volcanic crater, resulting from a huge, volcanic explosion about 23,000 years ago. The lake that occupies the bottom of the crater has no open-water connection to any other body of water, although the water table flows into and out of the lake, and basically defines the lake level.<br />
<br />
The lake and the terrestrial interior of the volcanic crater are designated a protected area by the Nicaraguan government, called <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2013/01/we-at-estacion-biologica-fundecigaia.html" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve</a>. There are several natural resource-related issues which justify and focus the conservation issues.<br />
<br />
Among the issues that make the Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve a special place, are the <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2015/07/laguna-de-apoyo-in-view.html" target="_blank">views</a>. The lake provides recreation for lots of people who benefit from seeing and interacting with the natural features, especially the lake itself. Being on the shore or in the lake gives one a view of water, forest and sky, a perfect combination.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6dWFGYNwkAU/WOwoalvM0oI/AAAAAAAAJU4/Kar6bOX-RiUzTfiXSZtsx6S4x8tp0B_9gCLcB/s1600/Andras%2BDorgai%2B9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Laguna de Apoyo" border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6dWFGYNwkAU/WOwoalvM0oI/AAAAAAAAJU4/Kar6bOX-RiUzTfiXSZtsx6S4x8tp0B_9gCLcB/s400/Andras%2BDorgai%2B9.jpg" title="Laguna de Apoyo" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laguna de Apoyo at dawn, from the shore in front of Estacion Biologica. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Especially around holiday periods, the lakeshore becomes a festive gathering spot for locals. The beachfront before <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estacion Biologica</a> has always been managed as public-access beach for the benefit of all, in accordance with Nicaraguan law. Many hotels and private properties try to deny locals access to the lakeshore before their properties, in order to provide their clients, usually foreigners and sometimes wealthy Nicaraguans, an exclusive experience, even though laws clearly make all lakeshore public property.<br />
<br />
During periods that are less touristic, the beach areas of <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2015/06/life-at-estacion-biologica-laguna-de.html" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo</a> may be visited by fewer people. On almost any day, the beach is very quiet at dawn. It's a great moment to see the lake, as light emerges over the edge of the crater, when there is little human activity to distract.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jN9Fw-e6gTM/WOwn9imEAJI/AAAAAAAAJU0/YWiUjq5Fzj8ciI1hujHpwPu91YqmAmUxwCLcB/s1600/17858869_1442820742404889_437308024_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Laguna de Apoyo" border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jN9Fw-e6gTM/WOwn9imEAJI/AAAAAAAAJU0/YWiUjq5Fzj8ciI1hujHpwPu91YqmAmUxwCLcB/s400/17858869_1442820742404889_437308024_o.jpg" title="Laguna de Apoyo" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn on Lake Apoyo, from a kayak. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There is something special to enjoy personally, alone, and quietly, at dawn on Laguna de Apoyo. The sounds of people, music, cars and the like, are much lower. The wind is usually much lower, too. Birds can be heard from long distances, even monkeys. The shapes of ripples in the <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2011/06/agua.html" target="_blank">water</a>, and the clouds in the sky, help to make a peaceful start to the day.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8slk9pUx-RI/Tojbw1gktmI/AAAAAAAAC2Q/vojEZH3q0Z0ZzDcsBAtpbtwMDvLdw9tFACPcB/s1600/P1030274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lagua de Apoyo" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8slk9pUx-RI/Tojbw1gktmI/AAAAAAAAC2Q/vojEZH3q0Z0ZzDcsBAtpbtwMDvLdw9tFACPcB/s640/P1030274.JPG" title="Laguna de Apoyo" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lake is often calm at dawn. Photo Wendy Van Kooten.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="Laguna de Apoyo" border="0" height="316" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qI9-yj8vvpc/TZJvYRSdVgI/AAAAAAAAAeI/6bPDvMXld-kk06kUkLjF4cWS10k3MX9kgCPcB/s320/escudo.bmp" title="Laguna de Apoyo" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Laguna de Apoyo, Nicaragua11.9240319 -86.027462211.861551899999998 -86.1084862 11.9865119 -85.9464382tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-40977006414298593692017-04-09T11:50:00.000-06:002018-08-22T07:55:17.811-06:00Donations to Gaia<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We at <em><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/" target="_blank">GAIA</a></em> feel honored when people want to <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/donate" target="_blank">donate</a> their time, money or materials to help us in our objectives to protect the wild natural resources of Nicaragua. Some people help with our activities as <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/volunteer" target="_blank">Eco-Warrior Environmental Volunteers</a>, conducting lots of tasks that are important to nature such as reforestation, maintenance, and assistance with wild animal rescue. We love to share our time and efforts with people who share our opinions about the importance of protecting wild nature.<br />
<br />
Not everyone can give a block of time to a project such as <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/reforestation" target="_blank">reforestation</a>. Some people prefer to help by making a small financial donation, or provide some of the materials that are required for our operations, such as foods for animals and containers for planting trees. We want to express our gratitude to the many people who have given small, or sometimes, not so small, material or financial donations to help us do what we do. A few such donations received during the most recent days are mentioned below.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-suSxrtZmRYs/WOmPkrzfucI/AAAAAAAAJTA/x4UksskTrmY_uFYAyI2ok-cGbCKEkSYlwCLcB/s1600/DonationsApoyoLodge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-suSxrtZmRYs/WOmPkrzfucI/AAAAAAAAJTA/x4UksskTrmY_uFYAyI2ok-cGbCKEkSYlwCLcB/s400/DonationsApoyoLodge.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seeds were donated by the owners of Apoyo Lodge-thank you!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The great folks at Apoyo Lodge dropped by to share with us and they shared their wealth by donating sunflower seeds. It is worth noting that Apoyo Lodge has changed hands, and the new proprietors are particularly kind and conscientious, as is evidenced by their donation of sunflower seeds for the benefit important nutrients. Our rescue macaw has a flexible diet but, like all parrots, requires certain components, among them, seeds which carry certain small-scale nutrients that this bird may not obtain from the other foods in its daily diet in captivity.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SAemmjPDJEk/WOmPkhiHN1I/AAAAAAAAJS8/pKuhoQOGw5cb3bR2W9riWXTbA8jbYEGigCLcB/s1600/donationsSteveWorldvets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SAemmjPDJEk/WOmPkhiHN1I/AAAAAAAAJS8/pKuhoQOGw5cb3bR2W9riWXTbA8jbYEGigCLcB/s400/donationsSteveWorldvets.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kinds veterinarians at WorldVets donated a surgery for Juju the kinkajou, and some juicy fruits which were readily devoured. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Steve and the team from WorldVets donated a costly treatment of surgeries to Juju, a wild kinkajou that was found badly beaten in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. The animal was given a chance to live by these operations, which included the removal of a foot and an eye, and closure of an open wound on one cheek. The team dropped in a couple of times to see Juju, and they brought the animal some fruit. From all appearances, watermelon ranks highly in the list of preferred foods for a kinkajou. We often receive severely injured <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2011/03/baby-monkey-dies-in-laguna-de-apoyo.html" target="_blank">wildlife</a>, and sometimes the success of seeing them heal is worth it all!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MJ0lKvT6k3k/WOmSmbiW_LI/AAAAAAAAJTM/kTS7Bu2bWnQ3mTuJQZ63YCPa0d3zXETqQCLcB/s1600/17837723_1441378049215825_870125855_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="wildlife" border="0" height="318" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MJ0lKvT6k3k/WOmSmbiW_LI/AAAAAAAAJTM/kTS7Bu2bWnQ3mTuJQZ63YCPa0d3zXETqQCLcB/s400/17837723_1441378049215825_870125855_o.jpg" title="reforestation" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juju the kinkajou likes watermelon. Photo Andras Dorgai. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There are lots of options for a visit to <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2015/06/life-at-estacion-biologica-laguna-de.html" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo</a> these days. The people who visit us often want to be involved in some way in doing something good for the environment. Part of keeping the environment safe for wild nature is patrolling to reduce vandalism, hunting, other bad things that harm the public good. We at <i>Gaia</i> support the local institutions in the ways we can. We had noticed the local patrol motorcycle for the police department was using a completely treadless tire, worn dangerously bald from overuse. Mark Connell, a student of <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/school" target="_blank">Apoyo Spanish School</a>, took note of our concern and provided a cash donation which covered most of the cost of the tire.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
</tbody></table>
We compared prices and models and acquired the best fit for the job, and made an official delivery to the police representative. Now he can participate in hot pursuit safely!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rHRVDztbJ1U/WOmO7U77sDI/AAAAAAAAJSw/KUibUFnuWNwTs1KZp7hcCdGo1aZWqLOywCLcB/s1600/P1110656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="animal rescue" border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rHRVDztbJ1U/WOmO7U77sDI/AAAAAAAAJSw/KUibUFnuWNwTs1KZp7hcCdGo1aZWqLOywCLcB/s400/P1110656.jpg" title="reforestation" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our local police representative in Laguna de Apoyo desperately needed a new front tire for his patrol motorcycle, which was donated by Mark Connell and funds from <i>Gaia</i>. Here, Juan Carlos presents the new tire along with Pablo and Mileidy from <i>Gaia</i>. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The next time we saw him pass by on the motorcycle, we stopped to ask about the tire, and sure enough, he had already had it mounted on the bike.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wp0q_oaJ1tc/WOmPkXKXowI/AAAAAAAAJS4/4i45LbE0rfs_pg-DPAwx3ZrBI9ITITrJwCLcB/s1600/markconnell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="gaia" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wp0q_oaJ1tc/WOmPkXKXowI/AAAAAAAAJS4/4i45LbE0rfs_pg-DPAwx3ZrBI9ITITrJwCLcB/s640/markconnell.jpg" title="wildlife" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our local police motorcycle now sports a fully new front tire! Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We don't have any large bank accounts to fund projects without some sort of financing, which is a cruel reality for most not-for-profits that are really doing things of benefit to our society. We depend on contributions from our allies and friends. Sometimes, the contributions are small, but really, no contribution is ever to small. Every penny can be put to use in the protection of wild nature in Nicaragua. Missie and Stephen Lavergne recently gave us two (yes, two!) animal transporters-not exactly a small contribution. The transporters are in nearly-new condition and capable of handling animals of different sizes. Who said Christmas doesn't come in April? It will now be more feasible to transport animals-both wildlife and pets such as <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2017/03/una-nueva-mascota-en-laguna-de-apoyo.html" target="_blank">Lassie</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q0UAKDDAPKg/WOprZ7-11CI/AAAAAAAAJUA/huI6-1h_o6g5LXHZWcb1b_06huDo0ZM4QCLcB/s1600/P1110922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="wildlife" border="0" height="365" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q0UAKDDAPKg/WOprZ7-11CI/AAAAAAAAJUA/huI6-1h_o6g5LXHZWcb1b_06huDo0ZM4QCLcB/s400/P1110922.JPG" title="animals" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lassie tries our our new large-animal transporter, donated by Missy and Stephen Lavergne. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jWSq3KZ7obs/WOwW1KhS7oI/AAAAAAAAJUc/sbwXyV4ve8Q1LVJuLcX69FIw75Oufl8ygCLcB/s1600/17886719_1442821722404791_1307368597_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="wildlife" border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jWSq3KZ7obs/WOwW1KhS7oI/AAAAAAAAJUc/sbwXyV4ve8Q1LVJuLcX69FIw75Oufl8ygCLcB/s400/17886719_1442821722404791_1307368597_o.jpg" title="gaia" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The smaller animal transporter donated generously by Stephen and Missy Lavergne is just right for small and medium-sized animals. Thank you! Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yhq0Vhe4CoQ/WOwW2MTdoNI/AAAAAAAAJUg/UobggnJ7_xwT4xe5ZVeF8x-Y_DmCPNGbACLcB/s1600/17858351_1442822085738088_945443527_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="gaia" border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yhq0Vhe4CoQ/WOwW2MTdoNI/AAAAAAAAJUg/UobggnJ7_xwT4xe5ZVeF8x-Y_DmCPNGbACLcB/s400/17858351_1442822085738088_945443527_o.jpg" title="animal rescue" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lassie, our newest pet addition, was rescued from the street in Managua. For the next long trip, she now has some very comfortable conditions for traveling. Photo Andras Dorgai.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Andras Dorgai has been learning <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/p/laguna-de-apoyo-spanish-school-and.html" target="_blank">Spanish</a> and helping as an <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/volunteer" target="_blank">Eco-Warrior Environmental Volunteer</a>. Not only has he provided lots of great help, he also donated a bag of walnuts to the animals. Anyone who has been in Nicaragua knows that they can be very expensive and the cost can seem even more prohibitive when contrasting to the incomes found in Nicaragua. It is not easy for us to keep the animals fed with high-quality foods that meet their special, nutritional needs without donations. Midorna, our rescue Scarlet Macaw, needs nuts as part of her diet, so she is getting a small quantity daily.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-He_0g5NxTs8/WOpu_6RgTqI/AAAAAAAAJUM/grG7eufye-8wb0ZL82FyE45Rbk-R1qgkgCLcB/s1600/P1110927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="animal rescue" border="0" height="216" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-He_0g5NxTs8/WOpu_6RgTqI/AAAAAAAAJUM/grG7eufye-8wb0ZL82FyE45Rbk-R1qgkgCLcB/s400/P1110927.JPG" title="Gaia Nicaragua" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dorgai is passing a walnut to Midorna, part of their daily ritual. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Lots of others have donated items and cash recently, particularly in support of our studies of the wild natural resources in the area. The examples mentioned here are presented to demonstrate the diversity of ways to help available. We want to thank everyone who has made a donation. If you would like to donate to <i>Gaia</i>, please click on the "escudo" below or just come by <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estacion Biologica Laguna de Apoyo</a> any time!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="Gaia" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qI9-yj8vvpc/TZJvYRSdVgI/AAAAAAAAAeI/6bPDvMXld-kk06kUkLjF4cWS10k3MX9kgCPcB/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="animal rescue" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Estacion Biologica, Laguna de Apoyo11.934780956645206 -86.0494348562511.809828956645205 -86.21148335625 12.059732956645206 -85.88738635625tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-10451179433768613822017-04-02T20:52:00.000-06:002017-04-03T19:06:56.430-06:00Animal Rescue XXI: Jamaican Fruit Bat<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Bats give most people a creepy feeling when they intrude into a certain safe-space that people have just for animals that could cause irreparable harm. Seeing bats up in the sky is generally acceptable, because most people have come to terms with bats being "up there" and doing the things bats do, for as long as anyone can remember. But <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2012/04/common-long-tongued-bat-glossophaga.html" target="_blank">bats</a> in the house, for instance, provoke a concern that comes from the subconscious, that is not easily controlled. Not even great admiration for Batman can dissolve the uneasiness they provoke.<br />
<br />
Seeing a bat up close in a safe, controlled situation, however, usually works to endear people to them. Bats, after all, have faces, and they are small, and most of them, we know consciously, don't drink the blood of unfortunate humans. Most bats fall into one or another of three categories of diet: fruit, insects, and nectar. All of those bats provide tremendous environmental services that make our natural world work better. They keep down pesky insects, disperse seeds, and fertilize flowers.<br />
<br />
We were recently blessed with a project - a juvenile Jamaican Fruit Bat (<i>Artibeus jamaicensis</i>), not fully grown, that was found on the ground and would not fly. It would, however, drink and chew fruits. We at <i><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/" target="_blank">Gaia</a></i> decided we would take on the project to rescue and try to bring the bat back to a healthy animal, if there was something we could do.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DFEbBJjaNEA/WOGloCct4GI/AAAAAAAAJRE/N99v2gVdyqgPiYETfnqG3YdYb3QzFdQXgCLcB/s1600/P1110719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Artibeus jamaicensis" border="0" height="192" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DFEbBJjaNEA/WOGloCct4GI/AAAAAAAAJRE/N99v2gVdyqgPiYETfnqG3YdYb3QzFdQXgCLcB/s400/P1110719.JPG" title="Jamaican Fruit Bat" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This little guy did not want to fly, but readily drank milk. Photo Jeffrey McCrary</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The bat was still not nearly fully grown. As a mammal, it thoroughly enjoyed drinking milk, and it would suck on watermelon and other juicy fruits. We gave it plenty of food, at intervals of less than two hours over a ten-day period.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xqpewWd97f4/WOGl2XAhuDI/AAAAAAAAJRI/v1aTfM98zSo22CQJhBd_gVOXRTY6j-V_gCLcB/s1600/P1110721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Artibeus jamaicensis" border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xqpewWd97f4/WOGl2XAhuDI/AAAAAAAAJRI/v1aTfM98zSo22CQJhBd_gVOXRTY6j-V_gCLcB/s400/P1110721.JPG" title="Jamaican fruit bat" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eco-Warrior Volunteers diligently cared for the baby bat, feeding and cleaning the animal at frequent intervals. Photo Jeffrey McCrary. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Our <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/volunteer" target="_blank">Eco-Warrior Enviromental Volunteers</a> were enthusiastic about the animal. The baby bat had all the expected basic, biological functions, but did not grow or get stronger, and eventually succumbed. Meanwhile, we learned a few things.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yrj1qBzdSB8/WOGmVn4K-gI/AAAAAAAAJRQ/9jH24Fj2JtUkIfl7hYXGnX4kWdNfalwbwCLcB/s1600/_1110717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="animal rescue" border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yrj1qBzdSB8/WOGmVn4K-gI/AAAAAAAAJRQ/9jH24Fj2JtUkIfl7hYXGnX4kWdNfalwbwCLcB/s400/_1110717.jpg" title="Artibeus jamaicensis" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bat readily sucked milk out of a cloth, but paper was more easily extracted from his mouth after a feeding. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The first thing we learned, is that a bat is capable of responding positively to human attention and comfort. This little animal evidently enjoyed the attention and drank surprisingly large quantities at times. This all made us feel that the effort was not in vain. The bat did not live long, but it was not suffering and it even seemed to enjoy its life at moments.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cHZUi8oSayU/WOGmegWls9I/AAAAAAAAJRU/q02EynExu4kvOdCgcjedv4_Pv-ZkcyX4gCLcB/s1600/_1110707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Eco-Warrior Enviromental Volunteers" border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cHZUi8oSayU/WOGmegWls9I/AAAAAAAAJRU/q02EynExu4kvOdCgcjedv4_Pv-ZkcyX4gCLcB/s400/_1110707.jpg" title="Artibeus jamaicensis" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another feeding session with the baby bat. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We also learned that we can try to do things that may not always succeed. Success is to often defined by the absence of failure. Even though we did not see the bat grow to an independent creature and fly away to live in the wild, we learned and gave, and this one bat also gained a benefit, by living comfortably a few more days. So, we are happy.<br />
<br />
The attempted rescue of this little animal also gave us the opportunity to share with others the story of bats as beneficial creatures. Not all animals we rescue survive to return to the wild, but we try to give them all a chance to live and, if it happens, to die with dignity, especially those animals affected by humans. Some, but not all the stories of <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2017/04/animal-rescue-xx-kinkajou.html" target="_blank">wild animal rescue</a> are positive, and some are downright tragic. All of us know, sadly, that the antagonistic relationship that humans sustain with wildlife requires new ways to engage people. We hope that this story reaches people who have not considered what happens to wildlife in the vicinity of humans. This little bat has gone on, but here, the story of this animal continues to reach people who may begin to consider that much of the harsh treatment toward wildlife is unnecessary and even counterproductive. Our staff, visitors, local neighbors and volunteers, and now, our readers can consider that even animals such as this little bat deserve both life and death with dignity.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J_qyW2PdpVI/Tnk_g7Y-AII/AAAAAAAAB6c/Gr7GnTZmdR8NLc5WsFy-PdLDdPI5SKMFwCPcB/s1600/100_1829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J_qyW2PdpVI/Tnk_g7Y-AII/AAAAAAAAB6c/Gr7GnTZmdR8NLc5WsFy-PdLDdPI5SKMFwCPcB/s320/100_1829.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bat adorns the wall in Laguna de Apoyo. Photo Pablo Somarriba.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We are engaged in different types of activities at <i><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/" target="_blank">Gaia</a></i>, not only wild animal rescue. Please read through our blog and visit us, to discuss with us the ways we can protect wild natural resources in Nicaragua. We hope you are engaged, too. If you would like to help us with cages, food, time, or money, to provide care for wild animals in distress, we would be grateful. Please <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">contact us</a> or drop by at <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estación Biológica</a> in <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/lagunadeapoyo" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve</a>, any time.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qI9-yj8vvpc/TZJvYRSdVgI/AAAAAAAAAeI/6bPDvMXld-kk06kUkLjF4cWS10k3MX9kgCPcB/s1600/escudo.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Artibeus jamaicensis" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qI9-yj8vvpc/TZJvYRSdVgI/AAAAAAAAAeI/6bPDvMXld-kk06kUkLjF4cWS10k3MX9kgCPcB/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="bat" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.052383999999961-13.717388499999998 -127.53675899999996 37.5927545 -44.568008999999961tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-36938461833008241372017-04-02T01:10:00.000-06:002017-04-06T14:06:40.313-06:00Animal rescue XX: Kinkajou (honey bear)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yIqLOG-zoMU/WOHEcVSCJnI/AAAAAAAAJR0/teKdPqNAG7Udb74OGiOcYSURnQEAugyowCLcB/s1600/17522278_1434507363236227_30066337_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Animal rescue" border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yIqLOG-zoMU/WOHEcVSCJnI/AAAAAAAAJR0/teKdPqNAG7Udb74OGiOcYSURnQEAugyowCLcB/s400/17522278_1434507363236227_30066337_o.jpg" title="Jeffrey McCrary" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kinkajou is much more inclined to walk upright, after surgery. Thanks to the team of veterinarians who donated their time and resources to this animal. Photo by Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
For some people, seeing wildlife in its natural habitat is a marvel that should be cherished. Unfortunately, we as humans have been conditioned to react to the sight of a wild animal by trying to kill it. The urge to manifest one's dominance over weaker individuals can be seen all too often where wild animals and humans meet. Far too often, when some wild animal appears near people, someone takes it upon himself to try to cause the animal pain or death.<br />
<br />
This scenario recently occurred in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, resulting in a wounded wild animal of a species not often seen. A kinkajou (<i>Potos flavus</i>) was recently brought to us at Estación Biológica by the park guards in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. The animal had been severely injured, with deep cuts and abrasions to the face, both eyes badly damaged, and one paw almost completely severed. We placed it into a cage where it rested and soon arose to the smell of fruit. The animal devoured an entire banana and part of a watermelon, then went back into a trance.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eUGf2R8WIR8/WOCex63825I/AAAAAAAAJQE/rY1w0GKDqywVifReDg1MKZHYeIa3cNMpACLcB/s1600/P1110785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="kinkajou" border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eUGf2R8WIR8/WOCex63825I/AAAAAAAAJQE/rY1w0GKDqywVifReDg1MKZHYeIa3cNMpACLcB/s400/P1110785.JPG" title="Potos flavus" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A wounded kinkajou was recently found in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. Photo Jeffrey McCrary</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The injuries that the animal suffered could not have been given by another wild animal; some person or persons who meant the animal harm. His face had been struck with a hard object, perhaps a rock. A leg was nearly severed. The animal was blinded and lame, with deep wounds on the face and leg. Nonetheless, the animal was hungry and strong when it arrived at <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estación Biológica</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/vmZTyqVvYrM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vmZTyqVvYrM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
We observed the animal for a day, and sought a veterinarian. Soon enough, a veterinarian volunteered the extensive services necessary to give the kinkajou an opportunity to survive. An eye was amputated, as was a foot. A badly infected wound on the cheek was cleaned and closed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/d0MmmGa_Q9A/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d0MmmGa_Q9A?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
The enormous appetite of the kinkajou was manifested from the day it arrived. In spite of his extensive injuries to his nose and face, its sense of smell would lead him to any fruit placed in the cage. It ate ravenously.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/DVu5d-isnvg/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DVu5d-isnvg?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
The poor kinkajou was taken to a clinic where kind and caring veterinarians gave it a second chance at life. Without a paw and an eye, it is not clear what quality of life it may have in the future. The animal will be observed to see how it recovers, how much eyesight remains, and what conditions could be provided that will be good for the animal.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cynjj-Ee1Cw/WOEeX-ZvZlI/AAAAAAAAJQk/i4X1R-4_maU98Ti8U9izkiIKYyD7VVTtQCLcB/s1600/17505956_1423144461039184_150748763_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="kinkajou" border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cynjj-Ee1Cw/WOEeX-ZvZlI/AAAAAAAAJQk/i4X1R-4_maU98Ti8U9izkiIKYyD7VVTtQCLcB/s400/17505956_1423144461039184_150748763_n.jpg" title="Jeffrey McCrary" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gaia Program Director Jeffrey McCrary gives a banana to the wounded kinkajou, which is eaten quickly. Photo Andras Dorgai. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The kinkajou (<i>Potus flavus</i>) is also called, in English, honey bear, for its rounded face, solid color, and tendency to eat sweet fruits. The species is found over a wide range in the tropics of the Americas, but is little seen because of its strongly nocturnal and arboreal tendencies. Its prehensile tail and feet make it at home in the trees. The kinkajou is superficially similar to monkeys and even cats, but is a close relative to the raccoon, both in the Family Mustelidae. Its diet is mostly fruit, in spite of long fangs and sharp claws which are used by other members of the same family to hunt. Although not particularly stealthy, its habits make it largely unknown to people who live with them nearby. Even the park guards at Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve had never seen a kinkajou before!<br />
<br />
We can only speculate on the motivations of the culprits that harmed this poor animal. Perhaps they wanted to make it a pet, given that some famous people today even think having kinkajous as pets is a good thing. Perhaps it was a simple act of savagery, of anger and machismo that was not diluted by any other emotion than to show one's power over a harmless animal. Harming animals in the forest seems to be a pastime for far too many people.<br />
<br />
The staff and <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/volunteer" target="_blank">Eco-Warrior Volunteers</a> at <i><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/" target="_blank">Gaia</a></i> are caring for it, giving the wounded animal food and cleaning up. We are in need of food-bananas, papayas, watermelon, dog food, beans and rice.... all of which require funding. We also need caregivers to spend there time as volunteers. More enclosures, cages, and even fencing materials are needed. You are welcome to scan through our blog entries to find more <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2017/03/animal-rescue-xix-pacific-screech-owl.html" target="_blank">animal rescue</a> accounts. Can you donate a small amount of your time or money to help us to care for this animal?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xDwNNjtaFrI/WOEhaUctk3I/AAAAAAAAJQ0/WFw9Eg49rcUYqcOerUuT4y8aZVlCclPZwCLcB/s1600/Potosflavus2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="kinkajou" border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xDwNNjtaFrI/WOEhaUctk3I/AAAAAAAAJQ0/WFw9Eg49rcUYqcOerUuT4y8aZVlCclPZwCLcB/s400/Potosflavus2.JPG" title="wildlife" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kinkajou relaxes among the remains of several slices of watermelon after a feast. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We at <i><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/" target="_blank">Gaia</a></i> think that providing a small refuge for wounded or mistreated,wild animals is vital to a protected, natural area. Many animals become injured or in need as a result of conflicts with humans over habitat that is supposedly dedicated for their use. Although the actual number of animals saved is low, they can provide the foundations for conversations and start people on the thought processes that may challenge one's view of nature here.<br />
<br />
We need your participation to accomplish this. Please visit us at <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estación Biológica Laguna de Apoyo</a>, and meet the kinkajou and other rescue animals that we may helping. We want your support and participation, so please visit us!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hZZblqTXhKc/WOHEcWDyA9I/AAAAAAAAJR8/3pMPqOniSwUmFjS1xpJJqQVM_8nWT8E0gCEw/s1600/17776571_1434507613236202_929083485_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="kinkajou" border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hZZblqTXhKc/WOHEcWDyA9I/AAAAAAAAJR8/3pMPqOniSwUmFjS1xpJJqQVM_8nWT8E0gCEw/s400/17776571_1434507613236202_929083485_o.jpg" title="animal rescue" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juju, as the kinkajou has been named, devours a banana within moments of sensing its presence. Photo Jeffrey McCrary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="kinkajou" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qI9-yj8vvpc/TZJvYRSdVgI/AAAAAAAAAeI/6bPDvMXld-kk06kUkLjF4cWS10k3MX9kgCPcB/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="Potos flavus" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com2Masaya Department, Nicaragua11.937931208348553 -86.0475111287087211.875451208348553 -86.12853512870872 12.000411208348554 -85.966487128708721tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-42780687409279473712017-03-17T13:10:00.000-06:002017-04-06T14:32:32.815-06:00Una nueva mascota en Laguna de Apoyo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hdRViphg-hM/WM7KrZq9FTI/AAAAAAAAJPw/IDgXPkbQSaQwOT3diyGGRl-Ev8FQTsMOgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0195%2B%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="mascota" border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hdRViphg-hM/WM7KrZq9FTI/AAAAAAAAJPw/IDgXPkbQSaQwOT3diyGGRl-Ev8FQTsMOgCLcB/s320/IMG_0195%2B%25281%2529.JPG" style="transform: rotate(-90deg);" title="Lassie" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
La <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estación Biológica Laguna de Apoyo</a> ya es dotada de un animal más. Esta vez, no es un animal silvestre, sino una perra. Lassie, una pitbull viejita que pertenecía a un <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbzJ23EbLJI">músico de reggae y calypso de renombre en Managua</a>, fue botada a la calle, por ser vieja, por ya no tener el encanto de ser cachorra, por estar enferma, por depender de una familia sin recursos para pagar el costo de curar sus heridas. Pero la verdad es que Lassie no fue botada a la calle por ninguna de esas razones. Fue botada a la calle por la falta de afecto, de conciencia, por tener el corazón encogido los miembros de la familia que decidió olvidarse de ella.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ugYlZosKuS0/WMwhBOUaMVI/AAAAAAAAJO8/w4m5Y3iN4kUKrgUN8X8kRSMBvUYU81zHgCLcB/s1600/lassie1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="rescate" border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ugYlZosKuS0/WMwhBOUaMVI/AAAAAAAAJO8/w4m5Y3iN4kUKrgUN8X8kRSMBvUYU81zHgCLcB/s320/lassie1.jpg" title="animal" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lassie al momento de su rescate en Managua. Foto Lorena. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Cuando nos dimos cuenta de Lassie, nos hizo pensar que podríamos asumir la responsabilidad de darle cariño, comida y casa el resto de su vida. Estamos acostumbrados a los animales silvestres, pero esta vez adoptamos una perra!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MfvPBxuMMd4/WMwhBOWwJGI/AAAAAAAAJPA/_gIquOq0-YoyMC1SbZ3ihpDXNWk_V5BcQCLcB/s1600/lassie2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="rescate animal" border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MfvPBxuMMd4/WMwhBOWwJGI/AAAAAAAAJPA/_gIquOq0-YoyMC1SbZ3ihpDXNWk_V5BcQCLcB/s400/lassie2.jpg" title="animal" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lassie en su hogar temporal en Managua, después de ser rescatada por los ángeles de la Fundación ADAN. Foto Lorena.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Los voluntarios de la Fundación ADAN se llevó a la perrita Lassie hasta la Laguna de Apoyo, donde nuestro equipo la adoptó. La pobre perra, viejita y enferma, ya en un lugar nuevo, tuvo que ir adaptándose a nuevas personas, y lugar nuevo, y hasta una perrita con quien estaría compartiendo espacio. Poco a poco, iba reconociendo a las personas nuevas en su vida, hasta decidir adueñarse de un pequeño solar con techo, en el patio de la propiedad de la Estación Biológica.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7RQmEHVH4Xk/WMwZcBPNHzI/AAAAAAAAJOQ/2Qtg9fZwyBACjZauGq484tOC2pF6sTpxgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="animal" border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7RQmEHVH4Xk/WMwZcBPNHzI/AAAAAAAAJOQ/2Qtg9fZwyBACjZauGq484tOC2pF6sTpxgCLcB/s320/IMG_0151.JPG" title="rescate animal" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lassie comiendo en su solar. Foto Julie Comeau.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Rápidamente, Lassie desarrollaba confianza con nosotros. También, ella aprendía del terreno físico, dónde es de ella y dónde no. Ahora, después de pocos días, ella se siente en casa. Su rescate ha sido exitoso!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SpO3YYDeWso/WMwacHOuXkI/AAAAAAAAJOY/XO8ayExoh9YxEm8MzW8u_PVQU4cRiZ9HQCLcB/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="rescate" border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SpO3YYDeWso/WMwacHOuXkI/AAAAAAAAJOY/XO8ayExoh9YxEm8MzW8u_PVQU4cRiZ9HQCLcB/s400/FullSizeRender.jpg" title="animal" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lassie quiere mucho a las personas que manifiestan amor con ella. Foto Julie Comeau.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Esperamos dar mucho a Lassie, amor, comida, salud. Ya sabemos que a nosotros, nos va a dar mucho más que nosotros a ella. Ella fue olvidada por una familia, pero ahora es parte de otra familia que promete a cuidarla y compartir amor con ella. Nuestros <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/volunteer" target="_blank">voluntarios</a> se dedican a darle cuido y afecto.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Si quieres ayudarnos con alimento o con tu tiempo para nuestros <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/animalrescue" target="_blank">animales silvestres</a> (y domésticos) rescatados, <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">contáctanos</a>! Puedes ayudarnos con el rescate animal!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="rescate animal" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qI9-yj8vvpc/TZJvYRSdVgI/AAAAAAAAAeI/6bPDvMXld-kk06kUkLjF4cWS10k3MX9kgCPcB/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="rescate" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haz click en el escudo para contactarnos!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Del Triangulo 800 metros al Norte, Catarina, Nicaragua11.937683 -86.05238399999996111.875539 -86.133064999999959 11.999827 -85.971702999999962tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-64275660239023407892017-03-07T07:31:00.001-06:002017-03-09T17:49:15.085-06:00Birdwatching Photography in Laguna de Apoyo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Although <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/birdwatching" target="_blank">birds </a>are not always easily photographed in the wild, some people are up for the challenge. The following photos were taken by Lars Saenger, who spent two weeks studying at <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/spanish" target="_blank">Apoyo Spanish School</a> and watching nature inside the Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve. These photos demonstrate that the area is great for practicing nature photography.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6iiiTBdspwU/WL3pn7zITHI/AAAAAAAAJNE/I2rIJDT828MFvj4-cPHE8c0EuVyf7qEDACLcB/s1600/Nicaragua-Apoyo-25c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Osprey" border="0" height="212" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6iiiTBdspwU/WL3pn7zITHI/AAAAAAAAJNE/I2rIJDT828MFvj4-cPHE8c0EuVyf7qEDACLcB/s320/Nicaragua-Apoyo-25c.jpg" title="birdwatching" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Osprey (<i>Pandion haliaetus</i>) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="text-align: center;">Osprey (</span><i>Pandion haliaetus</i>) populations found in Nicaragua do not breed locally. The entire Osprey population of Nicaragua is regarded as migratory, nesting further north. Some birds pass through Nicaragua on migratory trips, but many choose the ample aquatic ecosystems to fish in Nicaragua until moving northward for another reproductive period. Ospreys feed almost entirely on fish plucked from the surface of water. Even though the Osprey does not nest in Nicaragua, there are always a few individuals present in <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/lagunadeapoyo" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo</a>, most likely immatures that remain behind in their southern range until ready for reproduction.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-32OGb6Howts/WL3qmC48gRI/AAAAAAAAJNs/X6uDoH7-L3MCXqf7q6Lt_CAbdV2TJl-gQCLcB/s1600/Nicaragua-Apoyo-4c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Hoffmann's Woodpecker" border="0" height="264" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-32OGb6Howts/WL3qmC48gRI/AAAAAAAAJNs/X6uDoH7-L3MCXqf7q6Lt_CAbdV2TJl-gQCLcB/s320/Nicaragua-Apoyo-4c.jpg" title="birds" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hoffmann's Woodpecker (<i>Melanerpes hoffmannii</i>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Most of the bird species found in Nicaragua have wide ranges, often spanning many countries. Some, however, are found in more restrictive ranges, within an ecosystem. One such bird species, Hoffmann's Woodpecker (<i>Melanerpes hoffmannii</i>), is located only in Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. The species prospers in both open areas with plenty of trees and natural forest areas in the tropical dry forest region of Nicaragua. Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve is an ideal habitat for the bird, which is a close relative to and shares many superficial characteristics with the Red-Bellied Woodpecker (<i>Melanerpes carolinus</i>), a species common through much of the eastern United States. Hoffmann's Woodpecker is active in most areas of the reserve year-round, including both the deepest forest areas and built areas with houses.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QyBUZEvbD3c/WL3qiADXPuI/AAAAAAAAJNo/nIdkTrL01hkJ7sPuORVYc7WAWvLGXXA_gCLcB/s1600/Nicaragua-Apoyo-35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="birdwatching" border="0" height="232" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QyBUZEvbD3c/WL3qiADXPuI/AAAAAAAAJNo/nIdkTrL01hkJ7sPuORVYc7WAWvLGXXA_gCLcB/s320/Nicaragua-Apoyo-35.jpg" title="Grackle" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great-tailed Grackle (<i>Quiscalus mexicanus</i>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Some birds prefer to inhabit areas without human influence, but others may be particularly attracted to humans. One bird that responds positively to human impacts on the forest is the Great-tailed Grackle (<i>Quiscalus mexicanus</i>). They tend to be active throughout the day, loud and ebullient, and many other species do not prosper in their presence. They are not found deep into the forest.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gfIP4MMdyss/WL3qL9RkhII/AAAAAAAAJNc/Cg6W0JIb9gkfUApbRjtAMloo-lxhGZDPgCLcB/s1600/Nicaragua-Apoyo-37c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="hummingbird" border="0" height="222" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gfIP4MMdyss/WL3qL9RkhII/AAAAAAAAJNc/Cg6W0JIb9gkfUApbRjtAMloo-lxhGZDPgCLcB/s320/Nicaragua-Apoyo-37c.jpg" title="Cinnamon Hummingbird" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cinnamon Hummingbird (<i>Amazilia rutila</i>), feeding on the nectar of <i>Tabebuia rosea</i>. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2012/06/hummingbirds-i.html" target="_blank">Hummingbirds</a> are always loved by <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2013/04/over-225-species-of-birds-have-been.html" target="_blank">birdwatchers</a>. Their precise movements and delicate forms inspire awe among anyone who sees them. Among the most common hummingbird species in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve is the Cinnamon Hummingbird (<i>Amazilia rutila</i>). It and other hummingbirds consume nectar from flowers, as everyone knows; what fewer people appreciate, however, is that hummingbirds also consume very small arthropods, which they may glean from the air. One example of such prey is the juvenile spiders, that may actually be transported by the wind. The Cinnamon Hummingbird will feed on tiny spiders, often gleaning them from foliage and flowers. This bird species is common particularly near humans, and is even found in peri-urban areas of Managua.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oSocrgssDZc/WL3qhi9EGsI/AAAAAAAAJNk/oLfbMJqWEnAtbzbuVlKWUbR1o9S4y_UuACLcB/s1600/Nicaragua-Apoyo-61c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="birdwatching in Nicaragua" border="0" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oSocrgssDZc/WL3qhi9EGsI/AAAAAAAAJNk/oLfbMJqWEnAtbzbuVlKWUbR1o9S4y_UuACLcB/s320/Nicaragua-Apoyo-61c.jpg" title="Boat-billed Flycatcher" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boat-billed Flycatcher (<i>Megarhynchus pitangua</i>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Many species of tyrant flycatchers have been documented in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, among them, the Boat-billed Flycatcher (<i>Megarhynchus pitangua</i>). At first glance, it resembles the Great Kiskadee (<i>Pitangus sulfuratus</i>), but without cinnamon wing-feathers, and with a much more formidable peak and distinctive calls. It can be found in open areas as well as within a relatively closed canopy.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RSDJDPuR9dM/WL3qD_M5PeI/AAAAAAAAJNY/3_cE0e9WO9ggEGlMxK8VcEWMRE34h7AIgCLcB/s1600/Nicaragua-Apoyo-9c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="motmot" border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RSDJDPuR9dM/WL3qD_M5PeI/AAAAAAAAJNY/3_cE0e9WO9ggEGlMxK8VcEWMRE34h7AIgCLcB/s320/Nicaragua-Apoyo-9c.jpg" title="birdwatching in Nicaragua" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turquoise-brlowed Motmot (<i>Eumomota superciliosa</i>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The bird most adored by Nicaraguans is the <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/guardabarranco.html" target="_blank">Turquoise-browed Motmot</a> (<i>Eumomota superciliosa</i>). This lovely species is very common in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, likely because of the abundant sites for nesting available. The species makes nests in tunnels carved horizontally into loose clay and ash deposits in the steep banks in ravines and road cuts. This site may be among the best to find the species in the entire country.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vfpv2y6UAhU/WL3p2dIkPLI/AAAAAAAAJNM/GYMs_UkJDvsLEfMwmVuPWr2d7YeEdj6tQCLcB/s1600/Nicaragua-Apoyo-24c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dusky-capped Flycatcher" border="0" height="259" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vfpv2y6UAhU/WL3p2dIkPLI/AAAAAAAAJNM/GYMs_UkJDvsLEfMwmVuPWr2d7YeEdj6tQCLcB/s320/Nicaragua-Apoyo-24c.jpg" title="birdwatching" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dusky-capped Flycatcher (<i>Myiarchus tuberculifer</i>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Among the numerous species of tyrant flycatchers in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, is the Dusky-capped Flycatcher (<i>Myiarchus tuberculifer</i>). Its genus consists of several species, some of which are quite difficult to distinguish at a distance. It is common throughout the reserve.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jaNSQ5_cTWE/WL6s_KOTbNI/AAAAAAAAJOA/ftZ3UbGmWMMZoSnr7XR8ZnbLwayY1DdDgCLcB/s1600/Nicaragua-Apoyo-55c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Montezuma Oropendola" border="0" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jaNSQ5_cTWE/WL6s_KOTbNI/AAAAAAAAJOA/ftZ3UbGmWMMZoSnr7XR8ZnbLwayY1DdDgCLcB/s320/Nicaragua-Apoyo-55c.jpg" title="Oropendola " width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Montezuma Oropendola (<i>Psarocolius montezuma</i>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Birdwatchers never tire of watching the Montezuma Oropendola (<i>Psarocolius montezuma</i>), especially around a nesting colony. Dozens of nests in the form of woven socks are constructed in a single tree, where the birds engage in highly social behavior among the nesting group. Nesting occurs during the dry season, sometimes starting as early as November, with as many as one hundred birds gathered into a single site! An oropendola colony is always a <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/birdwatching" target="_blank">birdwatching</a> paradise.<br />
<br />
Please contact us for a <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">birdwatching tour</a> in <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/lagunadeapoyo" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve </a>or anywhere in Nicaragua. We organize expeditions in all locations of the country, and we would love to take you!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="birdwatching" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qI9-yj8vvpc/TZJvYRSdVgI/AAAAAAAAAeI/6bPDvMXld-kk06kUkLjF4cWS10k3MX9kgCPcB/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="Birdwatching in Nicaragua" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the "escudo" to contact us at <i>Gaia</i>.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Masaya Department, Nicaragua11.942842469439107 -86.04119511015625211.880698469439107 -86.121876110156251 12.004986469439107 -85.960514110156254tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6721456416526929645.post-14854764050004866092017-03-01T07:34:00.002-06:002017-08-10T21:03:50.247-06:00Animal Rescue XIX: Pacific Screech-Owl<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UZd1kDj2404/WLa_1F217tI/AAAAAAAAJMo/nfSuHv-C23IA5HGylRlsMRYvIVHNKbctACLcB/s1600/owleye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Megascops cooperi" border="2" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UZd1kDj2404/WLa_1F217tI/AAAAAAAAJMo/nfSuHv-C23IA5HGylRlsMRYvIVHNKbctACLcB/s1600/owleye.jpg" title="birds" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
There is an amazingly complex set of conflicts between people and wildlife, much more extensive and complex than anyone can appreciate. Humans impact wild animals in their natural environment in numerous ways, and for most wildlife, the impacts are negative. Birds may almost always be seen near areas of human activity, but several species of birds are not compatible with humans or with the birds that are compatible with humans and accompany them.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
At <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/station" target="_blank">Estación Biológica Laguna de Apoyo</a>, we often see, up close and personally, the clashes between humans and wildlife, and wildlife rarely prospers from the impact. Animals may end up hunted, abused, captured for the pet trade, or victims of habitat alterations and destruction provoked by humans. Often, wildlife die or appear injured or disabled and in need of <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2015/06/animal-rescue-xv-life-behind-bars.html" target="_blank">wild animal rescue</a>, thanks to the many ways humans encroach on wild environments.<br />
<br />
We feel gratified and awed, however, by the kindness shown by a family visiting the area and the happy ending for an <a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2012/02/animal-rescue-viii-ferruginous-pygmy.html" target="_blank">owl</a>. This family had noted an owl in distress in standing water, near the lake, and upon our suggestion, brought us the poor bird. It was obviously in severe distress, completely defenseless, and at risk of getting attacked by pet cats in a yard. The owl appeared to be in shock. We took the owl, wrapped in an old shirt, and placed it in a cage, and waited. We gave it a small amount of water, and then left it alone, warm inside a cocoon to recover from the shock it was experiencing and guarded from the distractions of daytime in a draped cage.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/S-kFiLie4kA/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S-kFiLie4kA?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
The owl was clearly an adult Pacific Screech-Owl (<i>Megascops cooperi</i>). This is perhaps the most common and definitely the most evident of the owl species in <a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/lagunadeapoyo" target="_blank">Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve</a>, particularly because of their willingness to reside in areas inhabited by humans. We have had some positive experience with this species, so we felt confident that we could feed it and give it a chance to survive and return to the wild. In the worst of cases, we could give it a restful end in a quiet place, if it indeed would not survive.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M0PXCwBOyi8/WLYBAg7IyBI/AAAAAAAAJL4/ZBEU6zbvG2o6yDziP8Nk3p-ftJHK3frPACLcB/s1600/NicaOwl-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="birdwatching" border="2" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M0PXCwBOyi8/WLYBAg7IyBI/AAAAAAAAJL4/ZBEU6zbvG2o6yDziP8Nk3p-ftJHK3frPACLcB/s320/NicaOwl-2.jpg" title="wild animal rescue" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pacific Screech-Owl is taken from the cage, prepared to return to the wild. Photo Lars Sanger.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Within a few hours, the owl had recovered considerable energy. By the end of the day, it was sitting on a perch, and showing a much better posture. Then, an egg appeared under the perch! The egg had cracked in the fall, but nonetheless, it helped explain the distress of the poor animal. Encouraged by the event and the improvement of the spirits and energy of the bird, we gave it lots of food, in the form of Asian house geckos (<i><a href="http://lagunadeapoyo.blogspot.com/2011/03/gecko-whoopee.html" target="_blank">Hemidactylus frenatus</a></i>), an invasive species which abounds around artificial lights in the area. After two evenings and days of comfort and food, it had not produced another egg yet, but it (or rather, she) was calling in the evening and receiving a response from the trees above. Could it be her mate?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sL7mQtekRno/WLYBBPQiUaI/AAAAAAAAJL8/s5Z-EZOb-ggQFQj-bPiddu_M-lTm4bsLgCLcB/s1600/NicaOwl-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="wild animal rescue" border="2" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sL7mQtekRno/WLYBBPQiUaI/AAAAAAAAJL8/s5Z-EZOb-ggQFQj-bPiddu_M-lTm4bsLgCLcB/s320/NicaOwl-3.jpg" title="Pacific Screech-Owl" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pablo Somarriba prepares to release the Pacific Screech-Owl. Photo Lars Sanger.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A recent evening, Pablo removed her from her cage, took her to a nearby secluded area, and released her. She did not hesitate. Within a fraction of a second, she had flown. She landed in a nearby tree, where she perched to assess her new freedom and examine the surroundings.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VxvX70GLD7I/WLYBEqmRekI/AAAAAAAAJMI/Pp2LRZAC_50V7IgjF1ES4sgPUyt3kFj7wCLcB/s1600/NicaOwl-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="animal rescue" border="2" height="212" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VxvX70GLD7I/WLYBEqmRekI/AAAAAAAAJMI/Pp2LRZAC_50V7IgjF1ES4sgPUyt3kFj7wCLcB/s320/NicaOwl-5.jpg" title="owl" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pacific Screech-Owl returns to the wild. Photo Lars Sanger.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Most birds and other wildlife affected by humans perish without notice, victims to cats, dogs, and to the transformations to habitat caused by human inhabitation. Even when people think they are making their country home compatible to wildlife, they may be eliminating a lot of elements of habitat vital to the natural order that is found in the ecosystem, such as undergrowth. Other impacts may involve pets. Cats are now understood to present a huge threat to wildlife.<br />
<br />
These issues are grave in the context of the Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, where human activity is intense. It is one of the most visited protected areas in Nicaragua, with some 100 residences and hotels along the shores of the lake.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w33lni4pvYg/WLYBD6QYtUI/AAAAAAAAJMA/2FBwqEMlaJ4CljVIq4dU6Ln19OB9GY4DQCLcB/s1600/NicaOwl-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pacific Screech-Owl" border="2" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w33lni4pvYg/WLYBD6QYtUI/AAAAAAAAJMA/2FBwqEMlaJ4CljVIq4dU6Ln19OB9GY4DQCLcB/s320/NicaOwl-4.jpg" title="birdwatching" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flight to freedom! Photo Lars Sanger.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
Seeing an owl in flight is always a great surprise. They seem to command the air, appearing without notice, and moving swiftly, without noise or flutter. This owl, in only a few wing-strokes, flew to a nearby branch and landed. Below is a video of her first flight.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Mt7feOOn5vU/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Mt7feOOn5vU?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
Our member of the neighborhood owl family is again in the wild, where she will, hopefully, reintegrate and go on to reproduce. She was saved from a sure death by dogs in a yard, and now, she has another opportunity to live and die in the wild as she was destined.<br />
<br />
We can appreciate the Pacific Screech-Owl in Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve almost any evening, by following the calls made within a family group. The members of a group frequently interchange a pleasant, bouncy call each evening. Occasionally during daytime, they can be spotted roosting in trees, sometimes just overhead of us in our daily activities. They are occasionally spotted during birdwatching excursions as well, because they may be roosting in plain view. This is one of the owls most tolerant of the presence of humans, so they are more easily found than most other owl species in the inhabited areas of the reserve.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MFlpQlld6Tw/WLbCY2QsQ-I/AAAAAAAAJM0/cYe8rGQtPY4JgGAXDMlY6afd2IXHqhfvgCLcB/s1600/NicaOwl-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="birds" border="2" height="212" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MFlpQlld6Tw/WLbCY2QsQ-I/AAAAAAAAJM0/cYe8rGQtPY4JgGAXDMlY6afd2IXHqhfvgCLcB/s320/NicaOwl-6.jpg" title="owl" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pacific Screech-Owl is now in the wild again! Photo Lars Sanger.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank"><img alt="birds" border="2" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qI9-yj8vvpc/TZJvYRSdVgI/AAAAAAAAAeI/6bPDvMXld-kk06kUkLjF4cWS10k3MX9kgCPcB/s1600/escudo.bmp" title="owl" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaianicaragua.org/feedbackform" target="_blank">Click on the escudo to contact us!</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Laguna de Apoyohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01982545110507320538noreply@blogger.com0Masaya Department, Nicaragua11.940827113725637 -86.04256840117187711.878683113725637 -86.123249401171876 12.002971113725637 -85.961887401171879