Ara Panama Torio
Restoration for MacawsPreparing the Torio landscape for the future reintroduction of macaws
What is Ara Panama Torio?
Ara Panama Torio is an ecological restoration and community work initiative in the community of Torio, district of Mariato, in southern Veraguas. The project aims to recover degraded habitat and create the ecological conditions needed for a possible future reintroduction of scarlet macaws (Ara macao).
The project approach is clear: restore first, reintroduce later. Ecosystem restoration is an essential prior step before any fauna reintroduction effort. We work with local communities to transform degraded landscapes into functional forests capable of hosting these emblematic species again.
Restore first, reintroduce later. The return of scarlet macaws is possible.
Preparing habitat for the return of the scarlet macaw
A long-term vision for restoration
Recovering habitat is the first step toward the eventual return of scarlet macaws to Torio
Restoration strategy
Ecological foundations for reintroduction
Ara Panama Torio focuses on creating the ecological conditions needed before considering the reintroduction of scarlet macaws. This restoration-first approach is fundamental for the long-term success of any wildlife reintroduction program.
The community of Torio, in the Mariato district, is a strategic site that combines forest remnants, restoration potential, and a community committed to conservation.
Native trees planted
Thousands of native seedlings planted and monitored in strategic areas.
Areas restored
Progressive recovery of forest habitat for wildlife and ecological connectivity.
Foundations for reintroduction
Ecological conditions suited to future macaw reintroduction.
Progressive forest restoration lays the foundation for the eventual return of macaws.
Work area
The project operates in the community of Torio and surrounding areas in the southern Pacific of Veraguas.
What do we do in Ara Torio?
Key activities of the ecological restoration project
Habitat restoration
Planting native species and assisted natural regeneration in strategic areas to connect forest fragments and create functional habitats.
Environmental education
Educational programs in schools and communities about the importance of ecological restoration and the value of macaws.
Project gallery
Images of restoration, education, and community participation work in Torio
Ara Panama Torio within PWC's work
Ara Panama Torio connects with other Panama Wildlife Conservation initiatives such as Ara Panama (Azuero), LEAF Wildlife, and environmental education programs, forming part of an integrated territorial conservation strategy. Restoring the forest today is the only way macaws can return tomorrow.
Strategic partners
Ara Panama Torio is possible thanks to the support of organizations committed to ecological restoration
World Parrot Trust
Tracy Aviary
Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund
Cámara de Turismo de Mariato
Heliconia Turismo
Ministerio de Ambiente de Panamá
Forest Finance
Geschenkbaum
Restoring the future of the scarlet macaw
Ara Panama Torio represents a long-term vision in which ecological restoration lays the groundwork for the eventual return of emblematic species such as the scarlet macaw.