PROJECT OF CONSERVATION AGUARÁ-GUAZÚ (Maned Wolf) EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES
The conservation project of the Aguará-guazú (PCAG) at the Buenos Aires City Zoo started in 1999. This project actively participates in the protection of this native species and of its natural habitat. As part of the 
project, both research studies contribute to the overall knowledge about the species and educational programs share the species’ important role in nature.
The Aguará-guazú or maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) is considered a species of special valuation’ (SSVA) as well as a Natural and Provincial Monument. It is critical that the local community take responsibility and action to conserve maned wolves and all the rich biodiversity of the area.
Objectives of Education Program: EX SITU
The objectives of a zoo education program is for visitors to be able to:
- Recognize maned wolves;
- Identify 2 characteristics and habits of maned wolves in the wild;
- List the causes and consequences of the maned wolf’s population decline;
- Assess the aguará-guazú (maned wolf) population and its habitat.
The methods used in these visitor experiences include the following activities: educational chats; games
and artistic makeup for children; video display; cognition survey of such species; signs; informative material; activities for the schools of Buenos Aires.
Objectives of the Activities: IN-SITU
For the in-situ work, the Zoo has developed an Educational Interdisciplinary Program In Situ,’ which is comprised of educational campaigns in rural schools of communities where the maned wolf is found, including the provinces of Chaco and Santiago del Estero. These programs are held in rural schools which serve as a meeting place for the community and feature educational games and include teacher participation. So far, this campaign has accomplished excellent results.
The activities at the Buenos Aires Zoo have shown that through various educational strategies it will be possible to counteract the threats faced by the maned wolf and other native species. As these programs continue and improve, it is the Zoo’s hope that the local community will become involved in conservation action.