The Sierra Llorona Private Nature Reserve occupies a transitional area between the Panama canal and the Atlantic slope of Colón province. The ancient primary rainforests of this region protect a network of pristine waterways and an impressive biodiversity.
Many rare species live in the reserve, such as jaguar [NT], harpy eagle [VU], Baird's tapir [EN] and Limosa harlequin frog [CR], as well as potentially undescribed species.
Unfortunately, this area is heavily threatened by development, especially highway construction. Highways make access easier for illegal hunting, gold prospecting, and invasive species.
Highways also divide habitats, which is particularly important because this area forms a vital part of the Mesoamerican Biodiversity Corridor, an important dispersal route for wildlife. Sierra Llorona is an especially important location, forming part of the connection betwen Soberanía and Chagres national parks. Cutting off this route poses a serious risk to the survival of many culturally important Panamanian species.
The Sierra Llorona Private Nature Reserve occupies a transitional area between the Panama canal and the Atlantic slope of Colón province. The ancient primary rainforests of this region protect a network of pristine waterways and an impressive biodiversity.
Many rare species live in the reserve, such as jaguar [NT], harpy eagle [VU], Baird's tapir [EN] and Limosa harlequin frog [CR], as well as potentially undescribed species.
Unfortunately, this area is heavily threatened by development, especially highway construction. Highways make access easier for illegal hunting, gold prospecting, and invasive species.
Highways also divide habitats, which is particularly important because this area forms a vital part of the Mesoamerican Biodiversity Corridor, an important dispersal route for wildlife. Sierra Llorona is an especially important location, forming part of the connection betwen Soberanía and Chagres national parks. Cutting off this route poses a serious risk to the survival of many culturally important Panamanian species.
Within the alignment of the proposed highway there are important and well-preserved forests... where there are species to be recognized and of ecological importance for Panama.
Acknowledgements
A special thanks to Primate Conservation Inc. and Herbario PMA de la Universidad de Panamá for supporting the Sierra Llorona Private Nature Reserve.
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