Sign the Petition
Target: David Almeida, Mayor of Manaus, Brazil
Goal: Support more green habitats and stronger conservation plans for critically endangered pied tamarin primates.
An icon of the Amazon rainforest is one step away from extinction. The pied tamarin is a tiny monkey (measuring only 24 centimeters long, on average) that once flourished in Brazil’s dense forests. But rampant encroachment on their habitats has driven the monkeys to the outer edges of ever-expanding Brazilian city Manaus and driven their total population down to about 22,000. In the coming years, this number is expected to plummet by 80 percent.
Pied tamarins are highly social animals that rely heavily on group living. But the gargantuan expansion of Manaus and its farms has prevented many of the animals from forming these critical bonds. Despite measures taken such as restricting logging, the problem remains persistent. Conservationists have submitted well-detailed plans to Manaus city leaders urging the creation of more green spaces (and more habitats) within the city while also making the pied tamarin integral to any expansion efforts.
Important decisions will be made in the weeks to come. Sign the petition below to demand leaders respect the role of some of its city’s most storied residents.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Mayor Almeida,
“The fight to save the pied tamarin is a fight to save the Amazon rainforest itself.” A leader of ICMBio made this blunt –and true – statement in regard to the critically endangered animal’s future. This small but captivating creature is unlike any other in the world, and Brazil – and Manaus – are fortunate to call it a native inhabitant. Please do not sign this iconic species’ death sentence.
Evaluate the proposals submitted by conservationists for creating green spaces and for incorporating pied tamarin conservation into the city’s plans. Ensure a vibrant future for vibrant animals Brazil alone calls its own.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Whaldener Endo
