News

Mocho Choshuenco Park Rangers Strengthen Skills for Magellanic Woodpecker Census

Sponsors

In an effort to enhance monitoring and conservation strategies for native wildlife, park rangers from the Mocho Choshuenco National Reserve participated in specialized training on the Magellanic woodpecker (Campephilus magellanicus), the largest woodpecker species in South America and a key indicator of the health of forest ecosystems.

The activity, held entirely within the reserve, was led by Dr. Gerardo Soto, a professor and head of the research project "Genetic Consequences of Deforestation on the Magellanic Woodpecker Across Its Distribution in Chile," spearheaded by the Austral University of Chile.

During the session, CONAF park rangers deepened their knowledge of the species' ecology, behavior, and identification techniques, aiming to optimize the census systems implemented in the protected area.

Arnoldo Shibar, CONAF's regional director, highlighted the initiative, stating, "Our park rangers at the Mocho Choshuenco National Reserve underwent a training session to enhance their skills and strengthen their work in safeguarding the black woodpecker species."

The project led by UACh seeks to identify the genetic consequences of habitat fragmentation on this species' population throughout its range in Chile. Its presence is considered a key bioindicator of the integrity of temperate forest ecosystems in southern Chile.

"Collaboration with academia is crucial for the effective management of our protected areas," said Cristian Álvarez, the reserve's administrator, adding, "This training not only enriches our rangers' knowledge but also provides us with scientific tools to actively contribute to the conservation of the Magellanic woodpecker."

Source:Soychile.cl