Beginning with a release of 300 hatchlings in 1992, the project has grown many fold, resulting in the release of 3,400 baby turtles in 1998. Indications suggest that the wild populations are making a comeback. Recently emerged from their nests, turtle hatchlings await weighing and measuring. Debra Moskovits Cofan monitor smeasures hatchlings for the river turtle conservation project. Photo by Debra Moskovits Randy also established a successful ecotourism operation, and the Cofan are now exploring possibilities for raising and marketing native fish as food to supply a growing demand from tourist and colonist markets.
Escapees pose threats to the survival of native fishes and pristine watersheds.
The Cofan's firsthand knowledge of the habits and foods of game fishes brings a high probability of success to the project. Building on strong common ground in the conservation of biological and cultural diversity and in responsible use of natural resources, the Cofan and The Field Museum are developing a partnership that combines the Museum's collections and scientific expertise with the deep-rooted knowledge and experience of the Cofan. One immediate focus of collaboration is a joint monitoring program to measure the benefits and help fine-tune the practices of the Cofan turtle project for expediting the recovery of wild populations. In addition, the Field Museum's store is selling Cofan crafts, such as fiber bags and hammocks, as well as beaded cuffs, necklaces and collars. Members of the Cofan community at Vermejo, a small village in the foothills of the Andes.