Fernanda Abra: Protecting the Amazon’s Endangered Primates with Canopy Bridges

Brazilian biologist Fernanda Abra’s journey in conservation began with a chance encounter. The first time she saw a Groves’ titi monkey, one of the world’s 25 most endangered primates, it was perilously close to a road. This moment sparked Abra’s commitment to protect these creatures from road-related threats.

“It was totally exposed to road mortality,” recalls Abra. She wanted to find a solution to this growing problem.

Estimates suggest that 475 million vertebrate animals are killed each year by vehicles in Brazil, a country with one of the world’s largest road networks, including vast stretches of the Amazon rainforest.

Innovative Solutions from the Canopy

Abra, a postdoctoral fellow at the Smithsonian’s Center for Conservation and Sustainability and the Conservation Biology Institute, is tackling this issue by constructing canopy bridges. These structures allow tree-dwelling species to safely cross over roads without the risk of being hit by vehicles.

Working alongside the indigenous Waimiri-Atroari people, who possess invaluable knowledge of the wildlife in the Amazon Basin states of Amazonas and Roraima, Abra’s Reconecta Project has built more than 30 canopy crossings on the BR-174 highway, which spans 3,300 kilometers through the Amazon.

In 2024, Abra was honored as one of the winners of the prestigious Whitley Fund for Nature Award, which celebrates grassroots conservationists.

Monitoring and Improvement

Each of Abra’s canopy bridges is equipped with cameras to monitor animals using them. These tools also help identify which animals approach the bridge but decide not to cross, enabling Abra to refine her designs and boost their effectiveness.

“Every time I see the video of the monkey using my canopy bridge, it’s wonderful because we are avoiding the situation of road mortality,” says Abra.

The bridges serve a dual purpose: they protect endangered species like the Groves’ titi, Schneider’s marmoset, and Guiana Spider Monkey from road fatalities and also reconnect isolated pockets of forest, enhancing the biodiversity and resilience of the ecosystem.

Future Plans for Expansion

Brazil’s infrastructure development plans, including new highways and roads, pose a significant threat to wildlife. In 2023, Brazil’s president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, announced plans to invest almost $200 billion in infrastructure projects.

Abra’s Reconecta Project is not just limited to the BR-174 highway. She is expanding her efforts to Alta Floresta, a city in the west-central state of Mato Grosso. Here, she is collaborating with government officials, non-profits, and universities to deploy additional canopy bridges, speed bumps, and wildlife crossing signs.

Abra’s vision extends beyond Brazil’s borders. She is inspired by similar initiatives around the world. For example, in California, an overpass is under construction above the 10-lane 101 Freeway to provide safe passage for animals such as mountain lions, coyotes, and bobcats.

A Passionate Commitment to Biodiversity

Abra’s dedication to wildlife conservation is driven by her reverence for Brazil’s unique biodiversity. “What amazes me about Brazil is the richness that we have, the wonderful biodiversity we have here,” she explains. “As a person, a professional, a conservationist, and a researcher, I will do everything that I can to protect this rich biodiversity.”

Her efforts align with the broader goal of reconnecting fragmented ecosystems and ensuring the survival of endangered species. Abra’s work highlights the importance of innovative solutions in addressing the complex challenges of urban expansion and wildlife conservation.

Join the Movement

Fernanda Abra’s story is an inspiring example of how individuals can make a significant impact on environmental conservation. Her pioneering work in the Amazon demonstrates the power of innovative thinking and community collaboration.

Join us in supporting conservation efforts and raising awareness about the importance of protecting our planet’s ecosystems. Share this article on social media, subscribe to our newsletter for more stories like this, and consider getting involved in local conservation projects in your community.

Together, we can make a difference and ensure a healthier future for wildlife and their habitats.