MANAUS, BRAZIL - More than 5,000 yellow-spotted river turtles (Podocnemis unifilis), locally known as tracajá, were released in the Igapó-Açu Sustainable Development Reserve in Brazil’s Amazonas state. The initiative brought together local communities, partner institutions and visitors within the conservation unit, which spans three municipalities in the region.

In addition to conservation efforts, the project aims to generate jobs and income for communities surrounding the reserve. Local lodges attract tourists interested in visiting the area and learning about the development of the Pé-de-Pincha Project, led by the Universidade Federal do Amazonas (UFAM), which oversees the turtle releases.

The natural survival rate of the species after hatching is around 1%. With technical monitoring and community support, that rate can rise to 18%, according to project data.

Amazon Agency