Influencer "Yanquiguayo" denies attempting to contact isolated indigenous people

American influencer and documentarian Nathan Seastrand, known online as "Yanquiguayo," has publicly defended himself against accusations that he attempted to make unauthorized contact with the isolated Ayoreo Totobiegosode community in the Chaco region. Seastrand claims the allegations are false and are the result of personal disputes. The controversy gained public attention after Lithuanian biologist and YouTuber Romualdas Šapoka, or "Don Šapoka," released a video detailing Seastrand's documentary project in Alto Paraguay. Adding to the criticism, the Ayoreo Totobiegosode people themselves and Paraguay's National Indigenous Institute (Indi) confirmed that Seastrand failed to adhere to prior consultation protocols and mandatory territorial protection regulations. In a statement released with his production company, Deep Jungle Studios, Seastrand refuted claims of using deception, alcohol, or coercion to access indigenous territories, asserting he has lived in Paraguay for over twelve years and operates within legal boundaries. He explained that cameras were installed primarily for observing wildlife, particularly jaguars. Seastrand stated that while the possibility of documenting an isolated Ayoreo group is interesting, the probability is extremely low, comparing it to spotting the mythical Pombero. He maintains that non-invasive filming in the wilderness is not illegal. Seastrand attributes the accusations to old professional differences and economic interests within the independent film industry. However, his explanations conflict with the outrage from local communities, who have raised concerns about the unauthorized use of images of deceased relatives and a lack of respect for their traditional authorities.

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As with many nature enthusiasts, we have always found it interesting to discuss the possibility of documenting a group of Ayoreo in voluntary isolation. However, realistically, the probability of that happening is practically one in a million. It is more likely to get a photo of the Pombero.