Planting trees for people and birds

Mexico is the country with the greatest diversity of oak trees on the planet, with 179 species. However, many of them are at risk of disappearing due to habitat loss, deforestation, and the effects of climate change.

Among these species is the majestic Chicalaba Oak (Quercus insignis), known for having the largest acorn in the world and reaching up to 50 meters in height. This impressive tree inhabits cloud forests and rainforests in Mexico (states of Nayarit, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Chiapas, and Veracruz), Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and western Panama in increasingly fragmented and threatened ecosystems.

The Encino Chicalaba is listed by the IUCN as an endangered species. Its populations are isolated, and its habitat suffers from the impacts of agriculture, livestock, droughts, altered fire regimes, and extreme temperatures.

To help reverse this situation, the team at Pronatura Sur's Encinar Moxviquil Nursery recently visited a little-known population in Chiapas. There, we confirmed its presence, assessed its habitat, and collected seeds for propagation. Our goal is to develop a comprehensive conservation strategy together with local communities and the owners of the land where this species still survives.

Your donation can make a difference.

With your support, we will be able to strengthen our efforts in nursery propagation, reforestation, reintroduction, environmental education, outreach, and research on the oaks of Mexico.

Join us as a Guardian of the Oaks of Mexico Every contribution helps unique species like the Chicalaba Oak continue to provide shade, life, and hope to our forests.

Links:

• Pronatura Sur web page