Our Research
& Impact
Our Work
We explore the biodiversity of the Reñihué Valley through innovative methods that draw from both science and artistic sensibility.
We formulate and lead studies that seek to unveil the secrets of this uncharted ecosystem. Our projects bring together a range of disciplines connected to ecology and science communication.
One example is our Eco-Friendly Monitoring Program, a new bioindicator species tracking initiative designed to be effective, compelling, sustainable, and minimally invasive.
Another is the Kodkod Project, a program intended to grasp the mysteries hiding under the mottled fur of this threatened native feline. We use hidden camera traps to survey their populations and identify who they are and how they live.
Every one of our programs –the study of the local wildlife, preservation of environmental processes, enhancement of the natural heritage– is designed to help conserve the Reñihué Valley.
The Importance of Species Monitoring and Tallying
Our survey and monitoring work yields trends on the conservation status of key local species. These efforts are a fundamental aspect of evidence-based decision-making and helps prioritize conservation objectives.
How Reñihué is Monitored
We use science, technology and photography to monitor and tally the wildlife inhabiting this complex ecosystem. Dozens of camera traps hidden deep in the forest provide hundreds of thousands of photographs. These are processed through artificial intelligence-based image recognition tools to obtain an accurate species count.
What we Monitor
From the big mountain lion to the diminutive chucao tapaculo songbird, we seek to learn about the ecology and natural history of the forest wildlife.
Our research efforts have focused on the Kodkod or güiña wildcat (Leopardus guigna), one of the most challenging native animals to study, because of its extraordinarily elusive and shy behavior. We are currently developing a non-invasive monitoring system to help us understand the long-term population dynamics of this threatened species.
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Camera Traps
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Photographs
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Individual Specimens
Other Initiatives
Other Initiatives
We reforest areas of high ecological value to create corridors for the native wildlife.
Other Initiatives
Other Initiatives
We visually tell the stories of the inhabitants of Reñihué.
Other Initiatives
Other Initiatives
We create science communication products that showcase our research as well as its protagonist, their emotions, and their stories.
Other Initiatives
Other Initiatives
We conduct environmental education activities designed to encourage awareness of non-human beings and improve the way we relate to them.
Other Initiatives
Other Initiatives
We use artificial intelligence to pinpoint the coat patterns that tell each Kodkod apart.
Other Initiatives
Other Initiatives
We use interdisciplinary methods to come up with new approaches to research.