Grupo Tapirus

This discovery encouraged some of our co-workers to found a wildlife conservation society called "Grupo Tapirus" in 1998. Since then, a group of ten volunteers has been working to ensure the protection of wild animals on the farm. They work mainly with three priorities:

To watch and learn more about the animals and local environment To protect the fauna and flora on the farmland and neighbouring areas To promote environmental education among the local population.

Successful education program

Several initiatives have met with great success, in particular, the education programme, which attracts young visitors, arriving in classes almost every week. The biggest attraction is a three-kilometre rain forest track incorporating exhibits of indigenous species of trees and wild orchids. From a watch tower built at a quiet spot the visitors can observe wild animals in their natural habitat. A small education centre has been opened with an exhibition of posters, photos and a collection of related objects. "Grupo Tapirus" understands well that the best way to protect the environment is by creating awareness through environmental education, important not only in the big cities, but also in the countryside, where it is still possible to observe species and ecosystems which have survived the human population explosion and its ever-increasing effects on nature.

"I think about my children, who should also have a chance to see all the beauty of nature, but only if we succeed in keeping alive what has been left to our care" says Paulo Dias da Costa, one of the members of the "Grupo Tapirus".

"I used to be a hunter, and now as a member of the Tapirus Group I am glad to use all my knowledge about the animals for something more positive" says Alberto Dias dos Santos, one of the most active members of the Animal Conservation Society.