For two months of the summer holiday of my undergraduate studies, I volunteered in Inti Wara Yassi, Ambue Ari, a rehabilitation center in Bolivia. During this time, I helped with the maintenance of the center and helped feeding, and providing enrichment for, a myriad of animals, such as monkeys, birds, tapirs, pumas and jaguars. However, my main responsibility was to provide care and monitor the health of a jaguar named Jaguarupi. This entailed long walks (or runs should there be monkeys around) through the Amazonian forest to provide Jaguarupi with the physical activity and behavioural stimulation required to live the most fulfilling life possible. This experience has taught me an intuitive understanding of animal behaviour, and the importance of trust and patience when working with animals.

Unfortunately, Jaguarupi was separated from his mother at an early age due to poaching. Since he was raised in the center, rewilding was not viable. Another problem with rewilding big cats in the region is restricted habitat availability due to human encroachment. Follow the link below to see how you can help Communidad Inti Wara Yassi in their mission to save this gorgeous ecosystem and its incredibly diverse array of inhabitants.

Follow this link to learn more about Communidad Inti Wara Yassi!