Rescue of wildlife in San Matías due to the crisis caused by wildfires.

In an effort to mitigate the devastating effects of the recent wildfires in San Matías, a wildlife rescue team from the Directorate of Natural Resources (Direna) of the local government has managed to save six animals that were in critical condition. During a search in the communities of Candelaria and Las Petas, rescuers encountered a yellow tamandua, a juvenile giant anteater, and a wild lizard, all of which were affected by the devastation of their habitat. Cecilia Dorado, coordinator of the Biodiversity area, highlighted the difficult situation these animals are facing. In particular, the tamandua has severe burns on its front and back legs, leaving it weakened and struggling to walk. This finding underscores the direct impact that the fires have had on local wildlife, creating a crisis that not only affects the animals but also reveals the fragility of ecosystems in the region. "Many little animals have been affected by the fires. Many have lost their lives due to suffocation, poisoning, and even being run over on the roads," Dorado stated, referring to the urgent needs for food and water that wildlife is facing. In light of this situation, animals are being forced to search for resources in areas where they risk being hit by vehicles. The coordinator called on the San Matías community, urging citizens that, upon sighting injured animals or those in danger, they contact the Subgovernorship of Ángel Sandoval or the toll-free number 800142052. This contact line is intended to facilitate the care and rescue of animals in distress, allowing for a quicker and more efficient response to the emergency. Dorado also highlighted the alarming state of water sources in the region, which are essential for the survival of wildlife. During their patrol, the rescue team observed that the few remaining ponds have minimal water, and in some of them, around 200 lizards have concentrated. Without the arrival of rain, these ponds could dry up in three weeks, leading to a massive loss of wildlife in the area. Luis Miguel Carracedo, subgovernor of the province of Ángel Sandoval, provided additional information about the rescue efforts, detailing the route they took in the swamp, starting from San Matías, passing through the communities of Santa Fe and Candelaria, and reaching the most affected areas. Their effort is part of a coordinated response to assess the impact of the fires and ensure the survival of the affected animals. In this context, community collaboration becomes essential. The active participation of citizens can make a difference in the lives of these animals and contribute to the preservation of the region's biodiversity. The resilience of wildlife depends not only on the swift response of rescue teams but also on the awareness and commitment of the local population. Meanwhile, the fires continue to pose a direct threat not only to animals but also to the environment as a whole. The loss of natural habitats means a disruption in ecosystems, with ripple effects that could lead to the extinction of various species if action is not taken quickly. This is a critical moment for biodiversity in San Matías; the community must remain alert and ready to act in response to the suffering of these living beings. Rescue efforts, while commendable, are insufficient if the population does not get involved. The situation of these animals serves as a reminder of the impact our actions have on the natural environment and the responsibility we have as caretakers of the Earth. The future of wildlife in San Matías depends on our ability to react and adapt to these challenges. Unity and collective action are key to saving not only the animals but also our environment, which sustains the lives of all beings that inhabit this region.