Quito Zoo transforms into Wiwa Quito, the country's first Wildlife Refuge Park

The Quito Zoo is embarking on a significant transformation, evolving into Wiwa Quito, which will be the first Wildlife Refuge Park in Ecuador. This rebranding and operational shift aims to deeply honor the Kichwa cultural heritage, recognizing the intrinsic connection and interdependence between human and animal life.

The evolution is structured around four core pillars. Firstly, the transition from a traditional zoo to a refuge park will incorporate actions inspired by sanctuaries for rescued species, such as the spectacled bear and jaguar. This includes plans for new habitats and an enhanced veterinary hospital. Secondly, the focus will shift from simply transmitting knowledge to creating immersive educational experiences designed to strengthen the relationship between communities and nature.

Thirdly, the park's mission expands from mere protection to encompass conservation and coexistence. This involves implementing projects that blend scientific research with cultural diversity, exemplified by the "Que vuelvan los uilli-uilli a Quito" (Let the uilli-uilli return to Quito) program. Finally, Wiwa Quito envisions itself not as a confined park but as a borderless entity, serving as a hub for conservation and environmental education within Quito and extending its influence beyond the city.

Among the new initiatives is a 200-hectare reserve dedicated to conserving the Chocó Andino region. The "Ciencia comunitaria" (Community Science) program will engage with rivers and ravines in Quito, and an experience called "Nos vamos de naturaleza" (We're going into nature) will encourage exploration of the city's parks. Martín Bustamante, director of Wiwa Quito, stated the project's genesis lies in the question of how to amplify positive impact in a changing world, leading to the conclusion that organizations must adapt to contemporary challenges. The first tangible step is "Un hábitat para Sisa," a habitat for a rescued Andean bear cub, spanning over 3,000 square meters.