Friends of Hoja Nueva

Bainbridge Island, Washington, 98110 United States

Mission Statement

Hoja Nueva is dedicated to the protection, rehabilitation, and rewilding of endangered wildlife species in the Peruvian Amazon while fostering sustainable development and education within local communities. We work at the intersection of conservation, community empowerment, and education to restore natural ecosystems and nurture co-existence between people and wildlife. At the core of our mission is the rescue and rewilding of iconic and threatened species, such as jaguars, margays, and tapirs, many of which suffer due to habitat loss, illegal wildlife trade, and human-wildlife conflict. Through a science-based approach, we provide critical care to injured or orphaned animals, utilizing a state-of-the-art rehabilitation center to prepare them for release back into their natural habitats. Our rewilding programs, led by a team of local and international experts, are a testament to the resilience of these species and the importance of preserving biodiversity in the Amazon rainforest. Our commitment extends beyond wildlife to the people who call this region home. We collaborate with local communities, particularly the riverine villages of Madre de Dios, to develop sustainable agriculture, improve waste management, and provide access to clean water. These community-led initiatives empower residents to become stewards of the environment, creating a shared responsibility for the region's natural resources and wildlife. Education is a central pillar of Hoja Nueva’s work. Locally, we lead workshops and school programs to promote wildlife conservation and sustainable living practices. Our One Health approach integrates environmental health with human well-being, teaching students and families the importance of biodiversity and its impact on livelihoods. Internationally, we welcome students, researchers, and interns from around the world to participate in immersive field experiences. These hands-on educational programs inspire a new generation of conservationists and build global partnerships for wildlife protection. By uniting conservation, education, and community development, Hoja Nueva creates lasting change for both wildlife and people. We envision a future where humans and wildlife coexist in harmony, where local communities thrive alongside vibrant, protected ecosystems, and where the Amazon rainforest continues to flourish as a global biodiversity hotspot.

About This Cause

Hoja Nueva is a dynamic 501(C)(3) non-profit (EIN: 47-4323459) based in Peru. Wildlife Rescue and Rewilding Efforts: Hoja Nueva is a leader in wildlife rescue and rewilding in the Peruvian Amazon, focusing on threatened species such as jaguars, margays, pumas, jaguarundis, and tapirs. Our wildlife rescue center provides critical care, rehabilitation, and pre-release preparation for animals rescued from illegal trade, human-wildlife conflict, or injury. With a 97% success rate, we pride ourselves on releasing these animals back into their natural habitats, using innovative techniques and expert monitoring. The Sumamos Project is a key initiative that enhances animal welfare and wildlife conservation by promoting ethical practices in Peru’s zoos and rescue centers. This project seeks to improve the health, living conditions, and well-being of animals in captivity through capacity-building, training, and resources. Sumamos focuses on raising the standard of care for wildlife across the country, ensuring that animals have better opportunities for recovery and potential reintroduction into the wild. Conservation Research and Ecosystem Monitoring: Our research efforts play a vital role in understanding the Amazon’s biodiversity. Hoja Nueva conducts extensive ecosystem monitoring through camera trapping and field surveys, contributing to the global body of knowledge on tropical wildlife. Our research has produced one of the largest datasets on Amazonian mammals, informing studies on species density, activity patterns, and the impact of human activity on wildlife. Our work has been published in various academic journals, including Biotropica, demonstrating our commitment to advancing scientific understanding of these critical ecosystems. In addition to mammal monitoring, Hoja Nueva is proud to be part of the WildGenes Project, a groundbreaking initiative that uses non-invasive sampling techniques to study microbial diversity in the Amazon. This collaboration with international institutions like Cambridge University enables us to explore the genetic makeup of the rainforest’s microorganisms, contributing to a broader understanding of the region’s biodiversity. Community Development and One Health: At Hoja Nueva, we recognize the interconnectedness of wildlife, ecosystems, and human health. Our One Health approach integrates conservation with community development, improving the well-being of local communities while protecting the environment. We work closely with local populations to implement sustainable agriculture, waste management, and clean water initiatives that reduce environmental degradation and create healthier living conditions. In addition to our environmental work, Hoja Nueva has a vast impact on domestic animal care in the region. Our dog and cat rescue, spay/neuter programs, and veterinary services provide much-needed support to local communities, helping control domestic animal populations and preventing disease transmission between pets and wildlife. By improving the health of domestic animals, we enhance the well-being of families while protecting local ecosystems from the negative effects of overpopulation and human-wildlife conflict. One of our significant achievements is the establishment of a waste management system and clean water access in Puerto Lucerna. By improving these basic needs, we help local families thrive while reducing their impact on the surrounding ecosystems. Our human-wildlife conflict mitigation programs also help protect livestock from predators, reducing retaliation against species like ocelots and margays. Education Initiatives: Hoja Nueva is deeply committed to education as a tool for conservation. Every month, we host educational events with local students and children, teaching them about wildlife protection, environmental stewardship, and sustainable living. These programs foster a deeper connection to the natural world and inspire the next generation to care for their environment and the wildlife around them. We also offer immersive wildlife research and rehabilitation internships, bringing students and researchers from around the globe to the Peruvian Amazon. These hands-on programs provide invaluable experience in wildlife care, rehabilitation, and conservation fieldwork, equipping participants with the skills and knowledge to make a tangible impact in conservation. Our six-month Wildlife Rehabilitation Course offers in-depth training for those looking to specialize in the rehabilitation of Amazonian wildlife. This course covers everything from animal handling and care to reintroduction strategies, offering a comprehensive learning experience in wildlife conservation.

Friends of Hoja Nueva
9332 Ne South Beach Dr
Bainbridge Island, Washington 98110
United States
Phone 2067557725
Twitter @hojanueva
Unique Identifier 474323459