The Waiting by Maria Portaluppi

Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city and its main port, but prioritising its urban, political and economic interests has had a severe impact on a number of endemic species. Two of the most serious problems are linked to trafficking and the uncontrolled growth of urban developments into the surrounding forest and estuary. The Sacha Rescue Foundation was established to protect wildlife and now receives a large number of species that it aims to return to the wild or transfer to conservation centres. Many of the arrivals come from illegal trafficking and possession, but the majority are a direct result of urban, industrial and agricultural expansion. The length of their stay at the centre depends on their individual circumstances and difficulties in the relocation process can extend their confinement. Despite these challenges, the constant efforts of the Foundation mean that some animals are successfully reintegrated, although many others await an uncertain future.