Climate Change Imperils Recovery Efforts for Brazil's Spix's Macaw

Reintroduction of the critically endangered bird, popularized by 'Rio' films, faces new threats from habitat aridification.

Spix's macaws, once extinct in the wild, are being reintroduced by a dedicated South African couple in Brazil.
The species' habitat in northern Bahia state is becoming increasingly arid due to climate change, complicating recovery efforts.
Half of the reintroduced macaws have died or disappeared, primarily due to predation and environmental challenges.
Government and nonprofit collaboration has faced setbacks, including a recent halt in the release of new birds.
Local reforestation projects aim to mitigate desertification, involving small farmers in habitat restoration.