In 2005, conservationists tackled Atlantic Forest loss after more than 80% of its woodland had vanished. 13 years later, jaguars in Upper Paraná rose 160% to 105 animals

In 2005, conservationists stepped up efforts to protect Brazil’s Atlantic Forest after more than 80% of its original woodland had disappeared. The damage had left wildlife with shrinking and fragmented habitats, making recovery a difficult task. Yet 13 years later, signs of progress were visible in the Upper Paraná Atlantic Forest.

Jaguar numbers rose by 160%, increasing from about 40 animals in 2005 to an estimated 105 in 2018. The recovery reflected years of habitat protection and improved forest connectivity. For conservationists, the increase offered a rare example of how sustained efforts can help threatened wildlife regain ground.