RONDÔNIA, BRAZIL - The Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio) and partner organizations have concluded the first experimental culling campaign targeting invasive buffaloes living in protected areas of Rondônia state. More than 300 animals were killed during the operation.

The initiative is intended to allow ICMBio to test the safest and most efficient culling methods, while also evaluating possible environmental impacts. The findings will serve as the basis for the development of an eradication plan.

By the end of the year, authorities expect to eliminate at least 500 animals, equivalent to about 10% of the total herd. The operation was carried out using three approaches — land, water and air — each designed to test different control strategies.

The eradication is being conducted by specialized wildlife control agents armed with rifles. Brazil’s courts have recognized the pilot project as scientific in nature and essential for addressing technical questions.

The animals currently inhabit the area between the Guaporé Biological Reserve (Rebio), the Pedras Negras Extractive Reserve (Resex) and the Pau D’Óleo Wildlife Reserve (Refau), in western Rondônia. The region lies at the intersection of three biomes: the Amazon Rainforest, the Pantanal and the Cerrado. Biological reserves are the country’s strictest category of environmental protection.

According to ICMBio, the second phase of the research campaign is expected to take place between August and September.

Amazon Agency