El Sira Communal Reserve, Protected nature reserve in central Amazon rainforest, Peru.
El Sira Communal Reserve is a large protected area in Peru's central Amazon rainforest, spanning three regions and containing habitats ranging from tropical forests to mountain landscapes at elevations between 130 and 2,250 meters (425 and 7,380 feet). The terrain shifts dramatically, with vegetation and ecosystems changing as you move from lowland areas to higher elevations.
The Peruvian government established this protected area in 2001 with the goal of safeguarding the Sira Mountains and the sustainable practices of indigenous communities living there. This decision came as a response to growing pressure to protect the region from resource extraction and deforestation.
The Ashaninka, Shipibo-Conibo, and Yanesha peoples call this region home and continue to practice forest management methods passed down through generations. Walking through the reserve, you can observe how these communities interact with and care for the land they depend on.
Visiting requires good physical condition and preparation, as access is challenging and the terrain is rough in a remote location. It is best to go with guides or organizations that know the routes and can ensure safety throughout the visit.
The area is home to the Sira curassow, a rare bird species with fewer than 400 individuals left in the world. This species is found nowhere else on Earth.
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