The past two months at Esperanza Verde have been filled with both joy and heartbreak. We welcomed new arrivals in need of care, celebrated successful releases back into the wild, and even welcomed a new baby into one of our monkey families. At the same time, we had to say goodbye to some very familiar faces.
Animals
After nearly sixteen years as part of daily life at Esperanza Verde, we recently said goodbye to our dog Yara. She joined walks to the port and plantation, welcomed visitors, and became a friend to volunteers, workers, and family alike. Many people will remember her as one of the first faces they met upon arrival.
Due to health problems related to old age, Yara peacefully passed away surrounded by the people who loved her.
Run free, sweet Yara. Thank you for sixteen wonderful years. You will always be part of Esperanza Verde and will never be forgotten.
Alongside this sadness, we are happy to share some wonderful news. Black spider monkey Yanay has given birth to a healthy baby girl! Since Yanay is a very protective mother, it took some time before we could determine the baby’s sex. This is Yanay’s second child, and we name her Yanaika. She is little sister of daughter Yayana, born in 2022. Both mother and baby are doing well.
The Ministry of Flora and Fauna also brought several new animals to EV. Woolly monkeys Aika and Nimo, only a few months old, arrived together with red brocket deer Muna after being rescued from the illegal pet trade. Sadly, Aika arrived with multiple fractures in her feet. To give both youngsters the best possible care, they are currently staying at the Susy Utzinger Orphan Animal Hospital, where they receive milk, fresh fruits, and vegetables several times a day.
Muna is still settling into her new surroundings. Like many rescued wild animals, she remains cautious around people, but with patience and gentle care we are slowly gaining her trust.
Also among the arrivals were two yellow-spotted river turtles, which were healthy enough to be released shortly after receiving health checks and deworming treatment.
Female tree porcupine Astilla has successfully returned to the forest. Throughout her rehabilitation she remained wonderfully wild, and after months of growing stronger on vegetables, leaves, and yuca, she was ready to begin life on her own.
Southern tamandua Nakini was also released back into the forest. During her rehabilitation she learned how to climb trees, search for termites, and navigate the jungle. Although now fully independent, we still regularly spot her around the centre. Seeing former patients thrive in the wild remains one of the most rewarding aspects of our work.
Sadly, not every story has a happy ending. Male howler monkey Waldo spent time in the clinic recovering from a bite wound. He healed well and was eventually cleared to return outside. Unfortunately, on his first night back in the forest he disappeared. Two days later we found his body, but it was no longer possible to determine the cause of death. Waldo was known for his funny personality and distinctive sounds, making him a favourite among many volunteers. He will be greatly missed.
In late March we welcomed juvenile two-fingered sloth Gonzo. Since he remained fairly wild, his rehabilitation moved quickly and he was soon released into the forest. During the first weeks we often saw him returning for his favourite treat: pumpkin. Recently, however, we discovered a deceased sloth nearby. Although we cannot know for certain, we fear it may have been Gonzo. While we cannot know for certain, we take comfort in knowing he spent his final weeks living freely where he belonged.
Susy Utzinger Orphan Animal Hospital
Female agouti Kampari has been a frequent visitor to the clinic since August last year. After suffering a bite wound, one of her toes never healed properly despite several treatments. Eventually, a small amputation was chosen as the best solution. The procedure was successful, and Kampari is now happily back outside.
Small yellow-footed tortoise Shelton John also spent considerable time at SUSTOAH after trauma and infection damaged part of his shell. Last month he was finally able to leave the clinic and return to the muddy outdoors where he belongs.
This period also marked the end of veterinarian Sigrid‘s six-month stay at Esperanza Verde. During her time here she brought not only professional expertise, but also kindness, humour, and friendship. Thank you, Sigrid, for all your hard work and care.
As one veterinarian leaves, another arrives. We are delighted to welcome Roxanne from Austria as our new in-house veterinarian for the next six months. Welcome to the EV family, Roxy!
Quarantine
Monk sakis Acacia and Tilia arrived through the Ministry of Flora and Fauna. Upon arrival it became clear that Acacia was still very young and required extra warmth and intensive care during the night.
For now, Acacia is staying in the cabaña with assistant manager Maud. During the day, both monkeys spend time together in Quarantine, where Tilia is helping her younger companion learn important monkey skills, including eating vegetables, taking vitamins, and trying new foods. Once Acacia gains enough weight, the two will begin spending nights together as well.
Quarantine also welcomed two short-term visitors: brown-throated three-fingered sloths rescued near Pucallpa. Since both animals remained completely wild, they stayed with us for only one night to receive health checks, deworming medication, and identification chips before being released back into the forest.
Construction & Others
Construction of the new capuchin release enclosure, Mica, continues steadily. The installation of the mesh is now almost complete.
Maintenance remains an ongoing task throughout EV. Last month attention focused on Noroc enclosure, home to our peccaries. Several weak sections of mesh were repaired and reinforced to ensure these curious residents stay exactly where they belong.
With so many young animals arriving recently, additional sleeping and climbing structures have become essential. Geyler has therefore been busy constructing new sleeping boxes and climbing frames for the youngsters.
Volunteers & Other updates
Douwe, Olivia, and Marlon were finally able to travel to the Netherlands. Together with family and friends, they attended a beautiful memorial gathering for Kayla.
It was an afternoon filled with warmth, memories, and heartfelt tributes. Being able to come together and celebrate Kayla’s life meant a great deal to everyone involved.
Douwe and Marlon returned to Peru shortly afterwards, while Olivia is spending a little more time in the Netherlands. During this period, we have been especially grateful for the strength of the EV team and the support everyone has shown for one another.
With a smaller team and many young animals requiring extra care, the workload has been considerable. Volunteers have organized quizz nights, game evenings, campfires, and communal cooking nights, creating plenty of laughter after long days of animal care.
Join the Team – We Need You!
We’re looking for new volunteers to join us in the coming months! Whether you’re traveling in Peru or dreaming of life in the Amazon, your hands and heart are welcome here.
Get in touch: info@esperanzaverdeperu.com — and come be part of something wild and wonderful.
¡Hasta Proxima!