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Project area
The savannas and semi-humid forest of the Aten area, La Paz, Bolivia.

Background
The Palkachupa Cotinga Phibalura boliviana is a globally threatened species endemic to a tiny area in the Andean foothill region of Apolo, La Paz department, Bolivia. The species is considered Endangered owing to its small range, small fragmented population and the on-going destruction and degradation of its habitat. Asociación Armonía has been studying the Palkachupa Cotinga and working toward its conservation since 2005, combining field investigation with community outreach and environmental education. Extensive field surveys have been undertaken to map the species’ distribution and to assess and monitor its conservation status. Recent census data suggest a total remaining population of 600-800 individuals with the population stronghold located in the area of Aten in the southern sector of its range.

The impact of habitat loss on the viability of the remaining Palkachupa Cotinga population is increasingly critical as the extent of suitable habitat becomes more fragmented and habitat fragments become smaller and more degraded. Armonía has identified key areas for priority actions, including the creation of a reserve to protect important nesting sites and associated semi-humid forest foraging habitat near the town of Aten. To further the long-term conservation of the species, the aim of the present project is to continue community outreach activities in order to strengthen local stakeholder support in the Aten region, and to carry out field investigation to advance our understanding of the reproductive ecology of the Palkachupa Cotinga.

Project overview
The present project will focus on the Palkachupa Cotinga stronghold located in the Aten region with the specific objectives to:

• Evaluate nest success in relation to nest site and overall habitat characteristics.
• Strengthen local stakeholder support and participation in the conservation of Palkachupa Cotinga habitat.

Evaluation of reproductive success in relation to nest site and overall habitat characteristics. The study will be carried out at four sites where the Palkachupa Cotinga is known to build nests in trees and on boulders. Data will be collected on individual nest characteristics, micro- and macro-habitat characteristics, as well as land-use practices and related human activity. Nest success will be monitored; in the case of nest failure, the cause will be determined if possible.

Strengthen local stakeholder support.
To foster greater local support, posters and educational materials will be distributed in key communities in the Aten region. William will continue to give informative talks in community town meetings and to carry out environmental education activities with primary and secondary school children. High school students in Aten will have the opportunity to participate in field investigations.

Project outcomes
The project will make a significant contribution toward the long-term conservation of a globally threatened endemic species.

The expected results of the project are:

• Greater understanding of the reproductive ecology of the Palkachupa Cotinga and the external factors that influence nest success.
• Baseline data for monitoring reproductive success and the effect of habitat conservation efforts.
• Greater local stakeholder support and participation in Palkachupa Cotinga conservation.

Contact
Bennett Hennessey
Executive Director- Asociacion Armonia
Casilla 3688, Santa Cruz de la Sierra
Bolivia
abhennessey@armonia-bo.org
Tel: 00(591-3)3563636