At ProAves, we’ve dedicated over 25 years to the conservation of Colombia’s most threatened species—protecting critical habitats and taking bold, tangible action to ensure their survival. As one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth, Colombia is home to thousands of species found nowhere else in the world.
This Earth Day, we proudly reaffirm our unwavering commitment to safeguarding biodiversity and preserving the unique ecosystems that make Colombia a global conservation priority.
Among the natural treasures we work tirelessly to protect are Magnolias—an ancient lineage of trees and shrubs found across Asia and the Americas. Colombia alone is home to 42 Magnolia species, of which 36 are endemic. Sadly, many of these are at serious risk of extinction due to deforestation, climate change, and agricultural expansion.
Beyond their striking beauty and valued timber, Magnolias play a vital ecological role: they capture carbon and help regulate the climate, support the water cycle, and provide essential habitat for a wide range of species. Their protection is not only about saving individual species—it’s about preserving the integrity and resilience of entire ecosystems.
Thanks to the generous support of Fondation Franklinia and the collaboration between ProAves and Women for Conservation, we are making great strides with the Magnolia Project—an initiative dedicated to the identification, monitoring, and restoration of Magnolia species within our Nature Reserves. To date, we’ve identified around 20 different Magnolia species, many of which are rare and endemic, underscoring the critical importance of protecting their habitats.
Through dedicated fieldwork, we’ve developed and implemented a comprehensive conservation strategy to safeguard Colombia’s Magnolia species. Our approach includes:
- Identification and monitoring of Magnolia trees in the field.
- Fruit collection and seed germination in specialised nurseries.
- Planting of seedlings in strategic ecological restoration zones within our Nature Reserves.
- Environmental education and community awareness programs focused on the ecological and cultural importance of Magnolias.
An essential component of this project is the work of our forest rangers, who, through their ongoing efforts, ensure the protection of these trees and their ecosystems.
“Working on the Magnolia Project at the Las Tángaras Reserve has been a truly special experience. We are helping to rescue trees that are on the brink of extinction. I’ve learned so much about germination, dealing with pests, planting, and nursery care. It fills me with joy to care for nature and to contribute, with my own hands, to the protection of a species that could otherwise disappear.” Fanis Mosquera, Forest Ranger and Nursery Leader, Magnolia Project
Several Magnolia species are currently in their reproductive phase, with fruits maturing and requiring close monitoring to ensure viable seed production and support natural regeneration. These efforts highlight ProAves’ steadfast commitment to the conservation of endangered species and the protection of the forests that sustain Colombia’s incredible biodiversity.
With every rescued seed, every monitored tree, and every trained forest guardian, we are sowing hope for Colombia’s Magnolias and for the future of its rich biodiversity. On this meaningful day, we call for united action to protect these vital species, which are essential to the health, balance, and resilience of the Andean forests.
Discover the Magnolia species documented in our ProAves Reserves at our microsite: Souls of the Forest → https://proaves.org/blog/proyecto-magnolias/
