To protect the giant South American river turtle, WCS has been working closely with the community of La Virgen, located in Cravo Norte (Arauca), along the Meta River, to establish conservation agreements and a monitoring and protection plan for adult individuals during the nesting season, which extends through the first four months of the year. This initiative is part of the Proyecto Vida Silvestre (PVS) action plan.
A 40-kilometer stretch of beaches has been designated for monitoring by a representative from 10 local families, supported by professionals from PVS and WCS. Their work involves inspecting turtle nests and tracking their development until the hatchlings emerge, which occurs approximately two months after each nesting event.
Photo: Mauricio Correa / WCS Colombia
They are also responsible for reporting "cambotes," a term used to describe gatherings of dozens (or even hundreds) of future charapa mothers along different riverbanks, where they come out to bask in the sun.
This entire voluntary monitoring effort grants its participants the title of the giant South American river turtle's adoptive guardians .
Photto: Mauricio Correa / WCS Colombia
One of the most significant outcomes of this community-driven and scientific effort is a proven reduction in the hunting of adult charapa turtles and the poaching of nests during the species' reproductive season.
Photo: Javier Silva / WCS Colombia
Additionally, the territory has gained visibility through the creation of the Charapa Festival, a cultural event held between February and March each year. This festival highlights the community’s efforts in turtle conservation and raises regional awareness about the importance of preserving the species.
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