The Cali Zoo has established itself as a unique natural and cultural hub in Colombia. Renowned for the quality and scope of its programs, it focuses on continuous innovation in education, research, and conservation strategies. Additionally, it promotes sustainable environmental practices. Recognized for staying at the forefront of protocols and guidelines that impact animal welfare, the zoo also conducts educational and recreational programs that contribute to the conservation of the region’s natural and cultural heritage. The Fundación Zoológica de Cali, which manages the zoo, is a private, non-profit organization that operates independently from any governmental authority, both at the departmental and national levels.
Reintroduction Program for the Poisonous Frog Oophaga lehmanni
* This topic is related to COP16 goals 2 and 4.
The Lehmann’s Poison Frog (Oophaga lehmanni) is endemic to the Valle del Cauca, Colombia. This species has been subject to massive extraction for illegal commercial purposes due to its charisma and rarity. Moreover, agricultural and livestock expansions, along with logging, have degraded its natural habitats. The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists it as critically endangered. Between 2016 and 2018, CVC, in partnership with the University of Valle, identified the urgent need for protection measures to counter the declining population and developed an ex situ breeding plan for reintroducing individuals into their natural habitat.
Social Conservation Laboratories – Waza Nature Connect
* This topic is related to COP16 goals 8 and 9.
Social conservation laboratories are spaces for citizen participation where multidisciplinary knowledge and alternative methodologies are integrated. These settings aim to captivate, co-create, and inspire local communities to make better decisions about their daily lives, lifestyles, and relationships with nature. Through collaboration and knowledge exchange, greater environmental awareness and responsibility are promoted, fostering sustainable practices that benefit both people and the natural environment.
Success story
Collaboration
The conservation of the Lehmann’s Poison Frog (Oophaga lehmanni) has involved several organizations: Zoológico de Cali, Ark of Amphibians, University of Valle, University of the Andes, Colombian Herpetological Association, University of Antioquia, CVC, and WCS, focusing on research, education, breeding under human care, and reintroduction.
Strategic Partnership
World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA)
Social Conservation Laboratories – WAZA Nature Connect
2017 – 2019
Increased vegetation cover by 11% over 1.7 hectares; increased bird diversity by eight species; increased diversity index by one point; 100 urban families connected with nature.
CVC, University of Valle, and WCS
Reintroduction of the Poisonous Frog Oophaga lehmanni
2020
Ex situ breeding protocols and implementation of a community monitoring system.
Collaboration Opportunities
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