Rayen Estrada Pacheco’s scientific contributions

Presentation of a reintroduction programm in the Argentinian Patagonia for Adean condor (Vultur gryphus). The project, called "El Retorno del Condor al Mar" (The Return of the Condor to the Sea) is a program run by the "Plan Integral para la Conservacion del Condor Andino".

Massive deaths of Andean condors (Vultur gryphus) prompted a National Strategy Against the Use of Toxic Baits in Argentina, based on 6 lines of action: 1) delivery of kits and unified intervention protocols in cases of wildlife poisoning, 2) community education programs, 3) surveys of rural people, 4) training courses and participatory construction workshops, 5) toxicology studies, and 6) an academic-scientific committee made up of specialists in toxicology. The strategy was developed in the 14 provinces of the country where the Andean condor is distributed. 554 people from 166 institutions have participated in the trainings and workshops, reporting 200 poisoning events involving more than 21000 individuals from 61 species. Birds and mammals were the groups most affected, and further, human victims show the impact on public health. 19 toxic substances were identified, mainly insecticides. This study proved that carbofuran is the toxic most used. Analysis of bait types suggests a significant conflict with carnivores. 195 surveys revealed that almost half of the farmers know people who use toxic baits and that the negative perception towards some species could determine their use. The strategy began to address the problem of the use of toxic baits in Argentina in a strategic, participatory and regional way, through the management of public policies and scientific research. We propose actions to work on the causes that lead to the application of this dangerous practice. Given its extensive use, we believe that this strategy can be adapted and applied in other countries in the region.

Highlights • Pesticide poisoning is currently the greatest threat to the Andean condor. • Poisonings affect adult condors more than immature ones. • The most commonly used poison is Carbofuran, and to a lesser extent Palation. • Condor poisonings have reached alarming levels that could lead to extinction.