It was an emotional moment for those who took part on Wednesday (9) in the release of the maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus), rescued in March on Avenida das Cataratas, in Foz do Iguaçu (PR). On arriving at the place chosen to be the new home of South America's largest canid, the box that housed him was duly positioned on top of a hill, with a stream in the background and a sunset worthy of wildlife documentaries. Despite the scenery, when he opened the cage door, the main character of this story seemed hesitant, which increased the anxiety level of the participants, ready to record the unique event with their cameras.
The action involved professionals from Itaipu Binacional's Bela Vista Biological Refuge (RBV), the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio), Eco Park Foz and the Onças do Iguaçu Project.
"Today is a great day for us and especially for him. It's the day he goes back to where he should never have left," said Pedro Teles, a biologist at Itaipu Binacional. The animal was found disoriented and cornered on March 12 this year near a restaurant in Foz do Iguaçu. After being captured by the Environmental Police, he was taken to Itaipu's RBV, where he underwent a series of tests. During the rehabilitation period, he gained 1.5 kg.
According to Teles, the location for the release was chosen based on studies that took into account the ideal conditions for the species in western Paraná. In addition, the maned wolf received a GPS collar to monitor its movements. "We want to understand how these animals are adapting or expanding their territory in areas like Foz do Iguaçu, which used to be dominated by the Atlantic Forest," he explained.
Emotion
After a few minutes, the wolf finally got out of his crate, felt the grass on his paws after weeks of treatment, and walked down towards the stream. And no, he didn't look back, as if to say thank you. Even so, those who were there felt grateful to have been part of the experience.
Eco Park's biologist, Alessandra Borges, considered the moment "exciting for the entire team at the institution". She added: "Our role is to raise people's awareness through direct contact with animals. We feel we have done our duty by contributing to their conservation. It was a new and very special experience for all of us".
The release also moved those involved in the rescue. Yara Barros, coordinator of the Iguassu Jaguars Project, stressed the importance of the moment: "To see this animal come out of its box and walk towards nature is absolutely incredible. This is what we work for: conserving species and guaranteeing their future".
Although Itaipu has already carried out a similar process in 2009, with a maned wolf in Toledo, this is the first time that an animal of this species rescued in the urban area of Foz do Iguaçu has been released.
This action by Itaipu is in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15 - Terrestrial Life, which deals with the preservation of flora and fauna.
