|
Help Maya Indians and Forest Birds in Chiapas, Mexico
Scientists know that southern Mexico is especially rich in wildlife species. They call the region a "biodiversity hotspot." However, the forest in this area is going fast, which is bad news for many songbirds. About 100 species of migratory birds from the U.S. and Canada spend the northern winters in the Mexican state of Chiapas. Many warblers, flycatchers, swallows, orioles, vireos and hawks are finding their winter homes in flames as farmers clear more forest. Learn more about migratory birds.
|
Pronatura field agents and Mayan farmers in Aldama, Mexico.
(© Chris Wille)
|
In tropical countries, you can't simply draw lines on a map and say, "Okay, this is a park. Now, everybody out!" People already live in most forests in southern Mexico. Maya Indians have small farms inside or near the last remaining forests. Conservationists are helping the Maya learn better farming techniques so that forests don't have to be continually cleared in the search for fresh soil. These techniques also help farmers grow enough corn and other vegetables to feed their families. Learn more about Mexico.
Pronatura, one of Mexico's leading conservation groups, has an innovative, multi-faceted program in Chiapas. Pronatura technicians live in Maya villages, helping the Indians improve their crops, plant trees and protect the environment. Pronatura sends environmental education teams to remote villages, using theater, storytelling, and dance to convey ecological messages as well as feelings of hope and confidence. Also, Pronatura biologists are studying the habits of migratory birds to learn how to best conserve them. The group manages its own sanctuary and helps guard the two most important reserves in the region.
Violaceous Trogan.
|
|
How You Can Help Save This Rainforest
Join Mexican conservationists in their urgent campaign to save the country's dwindling rainforests. In doing so, you'll help the native Maya people while also conserving threatened songbirds that nest in North America but migrate to Mexico every winter. Its people, especially the Maya Indians living in and near the remaining forests, are experiencing many social and environmental problems. Your involvement will help poor Indian families improve their lives and protect their environment while also saving winter habitat for the migratory birds whose melodious songs signal spring in the U.S.
Suggested Donation
Any donation is welcome and will be put to good use. Here are some examples of how your donation will be put to use:
| $50 |
Support an agriculture technician for part of a month. |
|
| $75 |
Cover expenses for an environmental education workshop in an isolated Maya village. |
|
| $100 |
Help a biologist collect useful data on songbirds. |
 |
Become an Ally in the Rainforest
Help Save Tropical Forests |
Learn about the Rainforest Alliance's partner organizations that are doing something to stop the destruction of tropical forests.
Allies in the Rainforest
About | Frequently Asked Questions
Fundraising Ideas | Donation Form
Recent Donors | Success Stories
Back to Conservation Programs
Search | Site Map | Home
Contact the Rainforest Alliance: canopy@ra.org
|
|
