Conservation International

Researchers in the Alto Mayo region of north-west Peru have discovered 27 species that are new to science, including a rare amphibious mouse, a tree-climbing salamander and an unusual “blob-headed fish”. The 38-day survey recorded more than 2,000 species of wildlife and plants. The findings are particularly surprising given the region’s high human population density, with significant pressures including deforestation and agriculture. The expedition was “thrilling to be part of. The Alto Mayo landscape supports 280,000 people in cities, towns and communities...I was very surprised to find such high overall species richness, including so many new, rare and threatened species, many of which may be found nowhere else.” - Dr. Trond Larsen, senior director of biodiversity and ecosystem science at Conservation International’s Moore Centre for Science, who led the survey.

As we wrap up 2024, we want to say thanks – for your steadfast commitment to protecting nature and building a better world. Conservation International’s work is only made possible through your support. Thank you for being a part of our community.

A 38-day expedition in the remote Alto Mayo region led by Conservation International, where development threatens wild habitats, turned up one previously unknown animal after another. 

A spiny mouse, a sticky-tongued salamander, a tiny squirrel, a blob-headed fish, and a carnivorous semi- aquatic rodent… These are just some of the sensational species discovered in a not-so-remote area of Peruvian rainforest. And they provide proof that nature and people can live side-by-side, and that's why Conservation International Peru has been working for more than 15 years to conserve it.

Trudging through swamps, lagoons and rivers, climbing mountains to cloud forests, and crossing farm fields, Conservation International scientists recorded an abundance of species in Peru’s Alto Mayo landscape. They were left stunned with their findings. More than 2,000 species, 27 of which are new to science, were living alongside and abundance of human settlements. They had proved something completely unexpected: Small patches of healthy forests can support a wealth of species – when protection and ecosystem management are done correctly. Which is exactly what Conservacion Interncaional Peru has been working to do in the Alto Mayo for the last 15 years.

27 NEW SPECIES were uncovered on Conservation International's expedition in Peru’s Alto Mayo Protected Forest. The discovery, which includes four mammals, eight fish, three amphibians and 10 butterfly species, is so remarkable due to their proximity to highly populated areas. Findings highlight the importance of efforts that protect the Alto Mayo region, where Conservación Internacional Perú has worked for 15 years alongside Indigenous groups, local communities & governments to support sustainable livelihoods and agricultural practices that balance needs of people & nature. LEARN MORE about this expedition that uncovered species new to science, including an amphibious mouse, a blob-headed fish and a tree-climbing salamander>>> https://lnkd.in/empCY9Vi  

The Biden Administration releases 2035 climate target, aimed at reducing net emissions by 61-66 percent below 2005 levels in 2035. It is critical that the world’s largest emitters continue building climate ambition – and nature must be a key part of the solution.    

Today, the U.S. Foundation for International Conservation Act is taking a big step for conservation and economic development. This bipartisan effort will create a new public-private partnership, providing up to $100 million in federal funding each year, with private donors contributing two dollars for every federal dollar. This bill is the result of tireless efforts from Conservation International, our partners at the Rob Walton Foundation, Nia Tero, the Bezos Earth Fund, and bipartisan leadership. If signed into law, this legislation would provide a key pathway for financing global conservation projects to build a more prosperous future. Conservation International CEO Dr. M Sanjayan released the following statement: “The U.S. Foundation for International Conservation creates a new model for global development assistance and wildlife conservation. As an independent charitable organization it will also benefit from the oversight of select Cabinet officials, private donors and other experts on its governing board as it works to swiftly and efficiently address nature loss and wildlife trafficking, strengthen U.S. leadership, and promote stability in fragile regions.…This bipartisan effort underscores how protecting nature secures global stability and reinforces the United States’ role as a leader in conservation and diplomacy. Conservation remains a unifying force with the power to shape a more stable future for all of us.” READ HIS FULL STATEMENT HERE>>>

We're thrilled to share this inspiring moment from the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (COP16Riyadh), where Conservation International (CI) introduced the Global Environment Facility’s (GEF) GEF-8 Ecosystem Restoration Integrated Program. The side event highlighted how an innovative partnership model—uniting finance and policy—can help us scale restoration efforts globally. Initiatives like this are a beacon of hope, showing that collective action can address desertification, support communities, and protect our planet for future generations. Check out this video to learn more about how we’re turning ambition into action! #GlobalPartnerships #UNCCDCOP16 #LDN #sustainability #climateaction #restoration

Around the world, Conservation International’s Surf Conservation Program is working with communities to protect waves and their surrounding ecosystems. In Sumba, Indonesia, Konservasi Indonesia and our Surf Conservation colleagues recently hosted a surf conservation camp for kids from nearby villages that we’re working with on these very efforts. Their goal: foster a love for surfing and the ocean that will help bring new energy and longevity to local conservation efforts.