Projects

CAATINGA RESTORATION PROJECT

In 2022, Blue Sky supported the release of the once-extinct in the wild Spix´s Macaw. While the release of the Spix´s has been a success, we know their long-term survival resides in the restoration of it´s habitat. Thus, Blue Sky started it´s operations with the goal of bringing back the biome. Our biodiversity-led reforestation and restoration project focuses on doing right by nature and enabling improved livelihoods.

The Caatinga is a tropical dry biome unique to Brazil. It covers approximately 11% of the national territory. Rich in biodiversity, it harbors 3,200 plant species, 371 fish species, 224 reptile species, 98 amphibian species, 183 mammal species, and over 500 bird species, with 45 of them being endemic to the biome, including the Araripe manakin, Lear’s macaw, and the once extinct in the wild, the Spix’s macaw.

The Spix’s Macaw

A rare bird, described by science as living only in the region of Curaçá and Juazeiro in the northern state of Bahia, on the banks of the São Francisco River.

Endangered due to animal trafficking, the last wild individual disappeared in October 2000. Since then, efforts have been made for its reintroduction into the wild.

In March 2020, 52 birds arrived at the center, and in 2022, the first releases took place.

In order for the Spix´s Macaw to survive in the wild, a critical point is the restoration of it´s unique habitat. Thus, Blue Sky aims to establish a healthy habitat with nesting and feeding trees apt for the macaw, among other tree species. We look to improve the quality of life for the people residing there, making them the guardians of the bird.

Environment

Reforestation
Soil and Land Restoration
Biodiversity Protection

Social

Financial Support
Education
Culture Appreciation
Legal Land Support

Technical

Monitoring and Verification
Sustainable Land and Livestock Management
Educational and Professional Training

The Caatinga Restoration Project

The project is located in the influence area of the Spix’s Macaw Conservation Units and looks to implement various activities that will promote the restoration and conservation of the caatinga. The project considers activities that will improve the quality of life for communities in the region.

For example, our project integrates land-use management techniques, including training and tools for sustianable livestock managment. We look to improve the livelihood of local farmers by providing alternative sources of income such as through agroforestry and local handcraft production.