Tropical dry forests are endangered throughout the Americas by deforestation and land use change; many have already lost over 95% of their original extent. Although not as species-rich as rainforests, dry forests may contain many endemic species (unique species found only in that particular region and ecosystem).
In Ecuador and Peru, NCI focuses its protection efforts on the Tumbesian Dry Forest, among the five most species-rich regions of the world in terms of endemic species. A large number of endemic plant and animal species have evolved here in order to adapt to the extreme weather conditions, including 55 species of birds, 8 mammals, and 20% of the flora. However, the need for protection is urgent, since almost 95% of the original ecosystem is already lost.
In southern Ecuador, NCI is purchasing land to create two large private dry forest reserves at La Ceiba (25,000 acres) and Laipuna (5,000 acres). In nearby Peru we are working with communities to create reserves at Talara and Limón, with a particular focus on endangered species at these sites.
In Mexico, NCI is purchasing land and working with the Mexican Park Service at Sierra de Alamos in Sonora, Mexico to protect the northernmost tropical dry forest of the Americas, a spectacular area that is home to species like the Lilac-crowned parrot (Amazona finschi). NCI's efforts are always integrated with rural community development efforts to create an integrated process of conservation and sustainable development.
