Jaguars and pumas are teetering on the brink of extinction. If you have ever dreamed of coming nose-to-nose with one of these wildcats, or at least finding out more about their lifestyles, this could be your opportunity!
Lapa Rios Long Run Destination is offering a unique chance to learn more about these endangered wild cats on the ground. Having supported a local team of researchers for several years, Lapa Rios is opening its doors to guests wishing to take part in wildcat conservation efforts carried out within the Long Run Destination.
Participants in the Wildcat Research and Conservation Experience 2010 need to stay at Lapa Rios for a minimum of four nights, between May 2nd and 15th, 2010. As an added bonus to this unique conservation experience, guests will be entitled to a free extra night and complimentary meals for one day.
Proposed special activities include: hiking into the rainforest with the researchers to find and collect footprints; learning how to analyze the cat’s diet; setting up and checking heat-sensor-triggered cameras and GPS collars that monitor the movement of wildlife; and learning about the conservation programme and the wildcats from the project directors, locals and also ex-hunters.
The jaguar is the third-largest feline after the tiger and the lion, and the largest and most powerful feline in the Western Hemisphere. The puma or cougar has the greatest range of any large wild terrestrial mammal, extending from Yukon in Canada to the southern Andes of South America. Both species are listed in the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species and their numbers are declining.
Lapa Rios not only supports research efforts but also actively promotes environmental education within school and works with the local community to raise awareness of the conservation needs of these cats.
For further Information and reservations, contact info@laparios.com and visit http://www.laparios.com/
