The Apu Pauni Research and Visitor Center, located in the community of Mavita in Honduras’ Moskitia region, continues to strengthen its operational capacity through the installation of a solar energy system, improving conditions for the conservation of the scarlet macaw, Honduras’ national bird.
Apu Pauni—“Scarlet Macaw” in the Miskito language—is a community-based organization committed to the protection of red and green macaws. From this center, key actions are carried out, including the rehabilitation of birds affected by illegal wildlife trafficking, patrols in strategic areas, biological monitoring—including nest monitoring—as well as the planning and implementation of forest fire prevention and control measures.
In addition, the center serves as a space for scientific research, student training, and the promotion of community-based tourism initiatives, strengthening the link between conservation and local development.
As part of ongoing upgrades, a photovoltaic energy system with a capacity of 5.6 kWp has been installed, including a 6 kW inverter, 15.6 kWh of storage, and an electrical distribution system. This infrastructure not only ensures a reliable power supply for lighting but also enables the full operation of the center, including research equipment, communication systems, and water pumping.
“As a community, we are very happy with this achievement. Access to energy will allow us to better serve those who visit us and move forward more strongly toward our conservation goals,” said David Lacuth Montoya, President of the Mavita Community Council.
Additionally, communities have strengthened their technical capacities through specialized training in macaw monitoring and nest tracking, with support from the Forest Conservation Institute (ICF), One Earth Conservation, WCS, and regional technical teams.
The strengthening of the Apu Pauni Center is part of a broader set of actions aimed at consolidating community leadership in conservation in La Moskitia, integrating sustainable solutions that enhance both biodiversity protection and community well-being.
These actions are implemented with support from WCS Honduras and funding from the Biodiverse Landscapes Fund (BLF).