RSI – Saving the Red Siskin

First RSI Research Updates Meeting

During the second week of January, we held the first RSI Research Updates Meeting in order to help all our collaborators understand the various research projects in progress on Red Siskin biology and conservation.

Building alliances

Today, the Red Siskin Specialists and Aviculturists Network (ReSSAN) has 127 members, with leaders promoting our efforts in Venezuela, Spain, Portugal, Brazil, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia.

Spanish company Aviantecnic joins the RSI network of collaborators

For about three years now, we have welcomed aviculturists from across the world as part of this collaboration, as they have contributed their experience in breeding Red Siskins and their interest in promoting ethical practices in aviculture.

RSI participation in the Group-Management Initiative

In 2020, the international Group Management Initiative (GMI) was formed, with the vision of effectively conserving all species requiring group-based population management, using the best available scientific information and tools

Tracy Aviary joins the Red Siskin Initiative flock!

Tracy Aviary in Salt Lake City, Utah, is now home to a small flock of red siskins! Since arriving in the fall, our red siskin flock has settled in nicely to one of our mixed-species aviaries, alongside a few tanager and dove species.

Good news for Red Siskin conservation in Guyana!

It is a pleasure to share with you the news! Guyana has officially classified its first Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA), located in South Central Rupununi.

The initiative

The Red Siskin Initiative is an international partnership of public and private institutions communities and people working to help understand, protect and restore sustainable populations of the Red Siskin.

Understanding the red siskin

The Red Siskin used to be a common, easily seen bird; however, little was known scientifically about its natural history, reproduction and feeding habits.

Rescuing, raising and reintroducing

The number of Red Siskins in the wild has declined severely, making it very difficult for them to recover on their own.

Connecting with people

Human actions may drive the main threats to Red Siskins, but undoubtedly it is human action - working together with people and communities – that will also be the main solution to these problems

Ensuring bird friendly habitats

Agroforestry practices in the tropics reduce pesticide use and erosion, protect watersheds, and provide habitat for birds and other animals.

Promoting sustainable use

Thanks to our initial research findings, we now understand more about how unsustainable harvesting is structured, who is involved, and what their socio-economic motivations are

The Red Siskin

Once abundant across northern Venezuela, today it is a very rare bird

An Iconic bird

The Red Siskin has been an inspiration for generations of Venezuelan singers, poets and painters.

Why is it endangered?

Two primary human activities have brought the Red Siskin close to extinction: Unsustainable harvest, and habitat loss and degradation.

How you can help

Donate

Your generous contribution will support essential research, anti-trafficking programs, captive breeding and education.

Take action

Everybody can make the difference. Share with others what you know about the Red Siskin, do not choose wildlife as pets, contribute to the project with money or time.