A recent expedition to the high altitude tropical forest of the mountainous Cerros del Sira region of Peru has recorded the first moving images of the mysterious Sira Currasow. It’s believed to be confined exclusively to this isolated area, and was not first described by science until 1969. Incredibly, three decades passed before it was observed in the wild again and it’s thought that just one photograph existed prior to these recordings being obtained. The research team, led by biologists from Glasgow University and Exeter University, estimate that only around 250 mature adult birds remain alive; primarily due to habitat destruction and hunting for their sought after meat.

The 22 trail cameras also recorded Andean Spectacled Bear in the reserve for the first time – increasing its known territory by 540,000 hectares – along with 30 other species of mammal, such as: Brazilian Tapir, Puma, Giant Anteater and Jaguar. The cameras also captured 145 bird species, 41 species of amphibian, 10 different types of lizard and 7 species of snake. Remarkably, two of the lizard species and three of the frog species are thought to be new to science.

Further footage of the Andean Bear, along with further information on the expedition can be viewed through the Mongabay link below:

http://news.mongabay.com/2015/09/scientists-capture-first-ever-footage-of-rare-threatened-bird-in-perus-cerros-del-sira/