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The Quistococha Zoo is very unique in that it is situated on over 900 acres of absolutely prime secondary rainforest where biodiversity of both flora and fauna is extremely high. Contained within this acreage is a 125 acre lake. This zoo is located minutes outside of Iquitos in the Amazonian rainforest of northern Peru. With the ever-growing popularity of ecotourism within this region, Quistococha has the potential of becoming a very powerful conservational tool possessing the capacity to reach out to all sectors of society.

      

It is the intention of Zoo Peru that Quistococha become recognized as providing an internationally renowned arena in which standards, as well as the quality of life provided the animals who live at the zoo, are recognized as some of the highest in the world.

There is a tremendous need for public and social awareness of local and environmental conservation in this region. It is vital that a program be developed to educate the regional population relative to the importance of preservation of their environment and the animals that live within that environment. It is also of vital importance that the residents of this region develop an understanding that saving endangered species and conserving habitat will be of great benefit to everyone in the long run.

Conservation Issues Endemic to the Area

After spending close to three years of my life in the Peruvian Amazon, it became apparent after a short period of time the lack of understanding that many of the local residents had towards the environment. With rainforests being exploited and the level of poaching continuously increasing, I often became concerned for not only the level of biodiversity within the area but, also what was being taught to the children attending schools within Iquitos towards the environment. Often I found myself questioning the children about what terms like "conservation" really meant.

During these sessions we give talks, have group discussions, show videos (if possible), hand out educational literature and give hands on methods to the public as to how they can all help protect their environment. It is the goal of Zoo Peru Inc. to bring forward conservation programs within the Quistococha Zoo which shall reach out to every sector of the Peruvian society.

Although poaching is wide spread problem within the Amazon, many of these poachers rely on selling animals and their parts to financially sustain their families. We can not go into these areas and attempt to stop poaching without giving these people an alternative source of income. It is our goal to work with the local people and the authorities within Iquitos to help bring forward solutions to these and many other problems that may exist in the area towards the environment.

Mr Antony Taggart
Executive Director
Zoo Peru Inc.