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In early July 2024, the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve, located in Cachoeiras de Macacu, Rio de Janeiro, celebrated the birth of a new tapir calf. Refauna, the project responsible for reintroducing the species to the region, released a short video recording the seventh calf born in the reserve, a significant milestone for the preservation of local fauna. The record was made by biologist Manoel Muanis during a mammal monitoring activity. It is estimated that the calf, whose mother is tapir Jasmine, has just over a month of life. Jasmine, from the Guarulhos Zoo, has adapted exceptionally well to the new environment, having given birth to three calves since its reintroduction in 2020. "We are extremely happy with the birth of the seventh tapir calf. Jasmine is showing an excellent reproductive success, which is crucial to the success of the project," said Joana Macedo, coordinator of the Guapiaçu project biodiversity monitoring. Since the beginning of the reintroduction program in 2017, 22 tapirs have been released in the reserve, of which 14 still survive, although eight have died due to running overs and conflicts between individuals. The return of tapirs, a species considered vulnerable by the Red List of IUCN, is vital for the ecological recovery of the area, as these animals play a crucial role in dispersing seeds and maintaining forest health. The Refauna Project, in partnership with the Guapiaçu Project and with the support of Petrobras, continues to work towards the conservation of this species, contributing to the restoration of the forests of Rio de Janeiro and reinforcing the importance of preserving biodiversity. The Guapiaçu Project is an initiative of the Socio-Environmental Action Institute - ASA, in partnership with Refauna, Caminho da Mata Atlântica, Petrobras, and support from the City Hall of Cachoeiras de Macacu and the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve - REGUA, where the images were recorded.

Today we celebrate World Ranger Day, an opportunity to express our deep admiration and gratitude to a group of men who dedicate their lives to the protection of nature in the Guapiaçu river basin. The care and commitment demonstrated in their daily patrols against illegal hunting and forest fire prevention, their assistance to visitors and researchers, and their ongoing maintenance of the trails and REGUA headquarters are a genuine source of inspiration for us all. Matheus Cardoso, the youngest ranger at the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve (REGUA), has distinguished himself through his exemplary work in environmental conservation. He is responsible for monitoring the trails and accompanying researchers from around the world who visit the reserve. According to him, being on the trail alongside the researchers, witnessing their discoveries and studies, is a source of great satisfaction. His commitment and dedication have been fundamental to the success of research and conservation activities at REGUA..

The Institute for Technology and Resources Management in the Tropics and Subtropics (ITT) at TH Köln – University of Applied Sciences, Germany, in partnership with REGUA, the Institute of Forests at the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ) and the Cachoeiras de Macacu’s Municipal Government successfully conducted the first training workshop in forest restoration named “Capacity building in forest restoration: Integrated biodiversity and climate protection in the Mata Atlântica”. This was based on local knowledge and REGUA’s extensive experience in ecological restoration. Topics such as biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services, ecological restoration, climate mitigation and adaptation, as well as a brief introduction to environmental legislation, were covered in this first course. This course is part oh the REPLÂNTICA project, funded by the German Ministry of the Environment, Nature Conservancy, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection through the International Climate Initiative (IKI) framework. This first 20 hours course was held in June targeting the professional staff of the local Cachoeiras de Macacu Municipality Government. Participants did not need prior knowledge, which broadened the scope of the training. The activities included practical classes at REGUA, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the restoration actions underway in the municipality. Key benefits of this training include: Qualified faculty staff:  Highly trained teachers and technicians provided a robust training.. Strategic recognition: Strengthening the recognition of the municipality as a crucial region for the water supply and provision of ecosystem services. Certification: Participation Certificates issued by UFRRJ and the ITT of the University of Cologne, in partnership with REGUA. Networking:  Formation of a contact network and potential partnerships for future ecological restoration actions in the municipality.

Last Friday, January 20th, three new tapir individuals arrived at REGUA coming from two different zoos in São Paulo State! We couldn’t be happier with their arrival! The tapir programme began in 2017, led by Refauna group, and there are already 6 baby tapirs born in the wild, here in the Reserve! This programme has been very successful thanks to the support of several partner organisations such as Asa Socioambiental, Projeto Guapiaçu, Bio Parque Rio, Zoo Rio Preto and Parque Ecologico São Carlos. Long live the tapirs!

REGUA was honored to be invited to attend the official launching of Instituto Espinhaco's "Pro-Aguas Rio" regenerative programme, which took place on June 28th at Casa G20, Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro city. Instituto Espinhaco is a Brazilian non-profit organization founded by Luis Claudio Oliveira in 2009 with the objective of supporting ecosystem restoration, water security and climate mitigation public policies, integrating all sectors of society as an innovative governance arrangement. The Institute is an inspirational case study working today in 11 Brazilian states and 12 countries around the world. The Institute works within UN-Water framework focusing on water security programmes with restoration essential for its success. At  the well attended presentation, Luis expressed the importance of society as a whole being at the center of the regenerative axis. Its Pro-Aguas programme in Rio state aims at restoring 7500 hectares focusing on the deficit of mandatory “Forest Reserve”, the 20% that every farming property has to have protected within the Atlantic Forest biome. Luis is looking to use carbon money from the planted trees and support from the industry to help finance the model. This is another welcome stab at meeting Brazil’s objective of adding a 10% to the biome’s current forest cover. We are proud to be part of this transformative initiative that promotes a more sustainable future for us all!

On May 27, the SOS Mata Atlântica Foundation held "Viva a Mata", a closed event that brought together partners, volunteers, donors, environmentalists, environmental authorities and friends to celebrate the Atlantic Forest Day. The ceremony, intended for special guests of the foundation, was an opportunity to reinforce the importance of the conservation of this vital biome. During the event, participants reviewed the advances and challenges faced in the last year. One of the highlights was the presentation of data from the Atlas of Deforestation of the Atlantic Forest, which provides a detailed view of the loss of native vegetation and efforts to combat this degradation. In addition, good practices were shared and ongoing projects aimed at the preservation and recovery of the Atlantic Forest were discussed. The occasion was also marked by tributes to individuals who have made significant contributions to the environmental cause. Among the honorees, Nicolas and Raquel (president and vice-president of the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve) stood out, recognized for years of resilient work and dedication to the protection of the Atlantic Forest. Viva a Mata was not only a moment of celebration, but also of reflection and renewal of the commitment to sustainability and protection of the Atlantic Forest. The SOS Mata Atlântica Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to continue mobilizing efforts to ensure a greener and more sustainable future for the next generations.

The Global Big Day is an annual event that gathers birdwatching enthusiasts worldwide, challenging them to record as many species as possible in a single day. Organised by the renowned Cornell Lab of Ornithology in New York, the event uses the citizen science platform eBird, which accumulates an impressive 100 million records annually. This year, 1,067 Brazilian observers joined the movement, making history with their contributions. Among them bird guides Adilei Cunha, Daniel and Gabriel Mello and Leonardo Pimentel followed a route that covered the Macacu River Basin which included Three Peaks Park, Teodoro de Oliveira (Nova Friburgo), Sumidouro and Guapimirim municipalities. Together, they spotted 224 different species, achieving 4th place in the national eBird ranking. The success of the Global Big Day 2024 in Brazil highlights the growing passion for birdwatching and commitment to biodiversity conservation. Here's to the next challenges! Fotografias - Irmão Melo

On thursday May 23rd, the International Institute for Sustainability (IIS) and Caminho da Mata Atlântica (CMA) launched "The Atlantic Forest Path: restoring productive landscapes in Guanabara Bay" which was held at the Guapimirim City Hall. This initiative seeks to promote the recovery of the native vegetation of the Atlantic Forest through integrated landscape management in the municipalities of Cachoeiras de Macacu, Guapimirim and Magé. The project is a collaboration between the International Institute for Sustainability (IIS) and the Atlantic Forest Path (CMA), with important partners such as the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve (REGUA), Embrapa Agrobiology, Agroicone, the Socio-Environmental Institute (ISA) and the Association of Biological Farmers of the State of Rio de Janeiro (ABIO). Funding is provided by the Forests of Tomorrow Program, via the Atlantic Forest Fund (FMA-RJ), with Funbio acting as operational manager. The purpose of the project is to recover the native vegetation of the Atlantic Forest, contributing to the environmental and economic sustainability of the region. The approach adopted includes integrated management practices that aim to benefit both the environment and local communities by promoting the restoration of productive landscapes and encouraging sustainability. Core activities consist of the restoration of 135 hectares, implementation of 15 hectares of agroforestry/organic systems and a nursery training course. The launch event brought together a number of local authorities, environmentalists and members of the communities involved, highlighting the importance of collaboration.

On the 18th May, the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve (REGUA) staged the "Sport is Nature" event, which brought together more than 100 people in a celebration of outdoor activities. Participants, coming from different locations around the reserve, arrived at the site by bicycle, running or walking, enjoying direct contact with nature. Organized by the Cachoeiras de Macacu Sports Secretariat in collaboration with REGUA, the event was considered an absolute success. "Sport is Nature" provided a unique integration between sporting activities and the natural environment, also offering integrative practices that promoted well-being and health. The event is part of the Sou(L) program, sponsored by Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) and supported by the Municipality of Cachoeiras de Macacu. The Sou(L) program aims to improve the quality of life and foster a harmonious relationship between people and nature, encouraging a deeper and more conscious connection between the local community and the reserve. The community's enthusiastic participation in the event demonstrated their keen interest in environmental preservation and the practice of outdoor sports, reinforcing the importance of initiatives that promote health and sustainability.

Today, May 8, 2024, marked the stage for the third Scientific Meeting of the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve (REGUA). Under the welcoming roof of REGUA headquarters, more than 70 individuals gathered to celebrate and share the fruits of scientific research in the region. The event, open to the academic community involved or interested in research carried out at REGUA and its surroundings, was highlighted by Raquel Locke, vice-president of the institution, as a moment of fraternization and mutual learning, where admiration for the various works carried out flourished. The Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve has established itself as a vital bastion for scientific research in the areas of biodiversity, conservation and ecosystem restoration in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Since 2001, REGUA has been home to the development of 90 theses and dissertations, in addition to 26 scientific initiation works and 13 post-doctorates, among other research projects. These efforts culminated in the publication of approximately 160 scientific articles, portraying studies carried out directly or indirectly in their area.

On the 8th May 2024, the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve (REGUA) Research Network will hold its long-awaited III Scientific Meeting. This event, which stands out as an essential platform for exchanging knowledge and strengthening ties between researchers in the region, promises to bring together a diverse and engaged academic community. Open to all members of the academic community who carry out or have carried out research at REGUA and its surroundings, the meeting represents a unique opportunity to share discoveries, experiences and perspectives in a collaborative and stimulating environment. Undergraduate and postgraduate students with other researchers are warmly invited to participate, with free registration, although subject to availability of places according to the Reserve's capacity. The event will be held at REGUA headquarters, offering a suitable space for academic exchange and deepening discussions on conservation and scientific research in the region. Accepted works may be presented both in the form of panels and in oral presentations, with the choice of the type of presentation being the responsibility of the scientific committee. Furthermore, summaries of the work presented will be compiled into a book, providing a valuable source of reference and record of the scientific contributions presented during the event. The III REGUA Scientific Meeting promises to be an enriching and inspiring moment for everyone involved, reaffirming the scientific community's commitment to research and environmental conservation in the region. I Workshop for REGUA’s Research Plan The Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve is developing, with support from FAPERJ, a Strategic Plan or Guidelines focused on Scientific Research. The development of this plan is inspired by the guidelines of the Roadmap for Elaboration and Review of Research and Information Management Plans for UCs at ICMBio. For the colaborative elboration of these research guidelines for the future, we intend to bring together doctoral researchers working in REGUA and/or its surroundings. This event will take place at the NGO headquarters, from the 09th to the 10th May 2024 .

By Lee Dingain Environmentalist and nature photographer Juran Santos has long been capturing images of animals in the Atlantic Forest and began visiting REGUA regularly six years ago to record and monitor wildlife at the reserve, setting up camera traps along various trails assisted by Keepers of the Wild Ranger Rildo da Rosa Oliveira. Camera traps are ideal for observing wildlife with minimal disturbance and provide rare insights into the behaviour of species that are only very rarely seen. Puma, Margay, Ocelot, Southern Tamandua, Tayra, Crab-eating Fox, and Northern Three-striped Opossum are among the highly elusive mammals recorded by Juran’s camera traps at REGUA to date, with secretive forest-floor birds like Solitary Tinamou, including family parties and mating pairs; foraging flocks of Spot-winged Wood-Quail, and the Rufous-breasted Leaftosser also captured on video. Nothing, however, had prepared Juran and Rildo for what the camera trap video files downloaded last week revealed—REGUA’s first-ever Maned Wolf. The largest canid found in South America, this ‘fox on stilts’ is easily recognized by its incredibly long black legs—an adaptation to its grassland habitat—long reddish-brown fur, large ears, white-tipped tail, and black mane on its neck and back from which it gets its name. The Maned Wolf is associated with hot and dry open habitats such as grasslands with shrub and open canopy woodland in Brazil’s interior (Cerrado) and Paraguay (Chaco) and strongly avoids forested habitats with a closed canopy. They are rarely found in the humid forested slope of the Serra dos Órgãos mountains where REGUA is located, so the appearance of this individual in the dense rainforest at REGUA is a great surprise. So what brought it here? Loss of their habitat to agriculture, retaliatory killing for depredation on livestock, poaching for zoos and collections, trophy hunting, and infectious diseases spread by domestic dogs are all threats to this species. Maned Wolves are forced to travel farther afield for food and water, and habitat fragmentation by roads and increased road traffic has led to many being killed by vehicles throughout their range. The individual recorded at REGUA may have been passing through in search of its preferred grassland habitat, or perhaps it has expanded its foraging area. Either way, the protected forest of the Guapiaçu Ecological Reserve provides a refuge for this magnificent animal as well as all other species captured by Juran on camera trap.