Habitat destruction and in some cases deliberate killing are the main threats to the manatee population. Although figures on the total manatee population are unknown, recent studies show that in some areas of their original range the animals no longer occur. At present, the distribution of manatees is patchy, which means that only small, isolated manatee populations still exist.
According to the IUCN Red List, the overall population of this South American manatee subspecies is in decline and is therefore classified as endangered.
YAQU PACHA is working with PROYECTO SOTALIA in Venezuela to compile scientific information on the manatee(Trichechus manatus manatus). Projects have been carried out to study basic biological and ecological data and threats to the species throughout its range in Venezuela, with a particular focus on Lake Maracaibo, as it is one of the main areas of distribution of the species.
This herbivore is classified as critically endangered in Venezuela and it is estimated that its population has declined by almost 80 % as a result of hunting, bycatch, loss and habitat destruction. In light of this problem and the data obtained, the Manatis project has made efforts to strengthen education and awareness programs and apply conservation strategies based on citizen participation, with positive results. Ecotourism, which uses the manatees as a showcase, has helped to raise awareness and increase understanding in the communities, which has curbed hunting.
Manatees in Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela: research and educational activities to protect them
Summary of activities in 2022
During 2021, through social networks, interviews and visits to different fishing ports on Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela, it was possible to identify areas where manatees are still observed. In particular, in the community in the north of the lake in the Ciénaga de la Palmita Nature Reserve, where the presence of the species was detected, a link was established with local fishermen to compile the report. throughout the year about observations, strandings or bycatch that occurred. This was very productive, because during 2022 we were able to confirm the birth of a new calf and the constant presence of a group of 8 manatees during the 12 months, a number that can be considered low, but as it is a shrunken population. in 80% of its total national distribution, it is exceptional news and an opportunity to monitor manatees and understand the characteristics that this region of the lake offers and that are ideal for their persistence. The notes highlight that there have been 45 manatee sightings in Venezuela and at least 15 times the individuals have been observed feeding on the coast of Ruppia maritima, which occurs in a very shallow area and the transparency of the water allows easy observation of the individuals.
Only one incidental capture of an adult was reported, which was released alive from the nets in this area.
Of the newly visited ports (5), only 4 reported the observation of manatees in 2022, with a total of 9 sightings distributed in 3 on the eastern central coast of the lake (San Timoteo), 3 in the northwestern region (San Carlos and Zapara Islands and Maracaibo City), 2 in the southwest (Puerto Concha) and 1 in the southeast.
From these records, it is worth highlighting that for the second time he was able to observe a group of manatees mating on the shores of the lake in the city of Maracaibo. This event was recorded by people in the city and was widely shared on social networks due to its novelty. In the video, 4 individuals can be seen, 3 of them stalking the female manatee, one of which was a juvenile, considering its length. This data, together with the data collected in September 2021 on the first record of courtship and mating in Lake Maracaibo, will be recorded in a scientific note.
In general, the few reports in the lake may be due to the low density of the species, the difficulty of observing them, survey errors or a combination of all these factors. Fishermen often have more information on bycatch, mortality and events, but as this is a prohibited and penalized activity, they are afraid to report the events and some do not participate in the surveys. In 2022, 35 fishermen between the ages of 19 and 62 could be interviewed.
In order to increase the participation of fishermen, attempts are made to visit these areas repeatedly to establish connections and build trust in order to obtain better quality data. Similarly, we continue to apply the snowballing approach to interviews, where one participant recommends another, which helps to generate greater interest from respondents as they understand that there are no risks in sharing their information.
Printed information about the species was taken on each visit and 3 conferences were held, attended by 87 people.
We also worked hand in hand with the ecotourism company Fitlosophy in the north of the lake, which works to disseminate information about endangered species in Lake Maracaibo. On each expedition, tourists receive a talk about Guiana dolphins and manatees, the company's staff have infographics on both species and knowledge, as they have already been trained and instructed on what aspects to emphasize when explaining dolphins and manatees to tourists.
In 2022, a total of 531 people took part in the kayak tour, mainly Venezuelans, but also tourists from Colombia, Argentina, Panama, Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, the United States, Spain, Turkey, India and the Czech Republic.
Next steps:
- Increased search for information to identify areas of higher presence and mortality of the species.
- Produce a map of frequent manatee sightings and areas where manatees are most at risk to inspire decision-makers.
- In areas where tourism is already developed, maintain communication and support with material, presentations and other topics they need to promote manatees as a tourist attraction.
- Conduct research to estimate the frequency of encounters with the species in areas where their presence has been frequently detected.
Our conservation organization YAQU PACHA has been active in Latin America for 30 years to protect endangered aquatic mammal species. You can support our work in species conservation with a donation or membership.
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