Mymba Kuera: The race to save wildlife at the Itaipu dam
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This episode of Witness History recounts the unprecedented wildlife rescue operation known as Minbacwera, launched in 1982 to save animals from the flooding of the Atlantic Forest due to the construction of the Itaipu Dam on the Brazil-Paraguay border. Over the course of several months, more than 35,000 animals—including snakes, armadillos, tapirs, and birds—were rescued by a team led by Paraguayan scientist Darío Pérez Chena. The operation was one of the largest of its kind in South America, driven by growing environmental awareness following the 1972 UN environmental conference. Despite dangerous conditions, including venomous snakes and flooded terrain, the team used boats, nets, and anesthetic rifles to save animals clinging to tree tops or swimming in rising waters. A significant number of venomous snakes were sent to Brazil’s Butantan Institute to produce antivenom, turning a conservation crisis into a public health opportunity. The episode ends with reflection on the dam’s lasting legacy: providing over 85% of Paraguay’s electricity and transforming the country into a net energy exporter.
Over 35,000 animals were rescued during the Itaipu Dam flood, making it one of the largest wildlife rescue operations in South American history.
The Minbacwera project was a pioneering effort in environmental mitigation, driven by international ecological awareness and scientific surveying.
Venomous snakes rescued from the flooded forest were repurposed to produce antivenom at Brazil’s Butantan Institute.
Birds were unexpectedly rescued after being trapped in water due to wet tail feathers, highlighting unforeseen ecological consequences.
The operation showcased the importance of cross-border collaboration and rapid response in conservation emergencies.
…and 1 more takeaway available in PodZeus
Introduction to Witness History
Stefania Gotzer introduces the podcast, explaining its mission to share firsthand historical stories through archive audio and personal accounts, with new episodes released daily.
The Race Against Time: October 1982
“We camped in remote areas because we were afraid people would be curious and come to see our work. And it was dangerous work for the untrained.”
The Atlantic Forest and the Minbacwera Mission
“It's one of the richest regions in biodiversity in the Americas, second only to the Amazon.”
Rescue Operations and Unexpected Challenges
“What happened was that as the water rose, many insects gathered in the branches of the trees. The birds would come to eat them, but when they took off, their tail feathers would get wet. That made them lose control and fall into the water.”
Legacy of the Rescue and the Itaipu Dam
The episode concludes with the operation’s success—over 35,000 animals saved—and the long-term impact of the Itaipu Dam as a source of renewable energy, transforming Paraguay’s economy and energy independence.
“It's one of the richest regions in biodiversity in the Americas, second only to the Amazon.”
“Itaipu now provides more than 85% of the country's electricity and sells the surplus to Brazil, making Paraguay a net exporter of energy.”
“What happened was that as the water rose, many insects gathered in the branches of the trees. The birds would come to eat them, but when they took off, their tail feathers would get wet. That made them lose control and fall into the water.”
Host
Itaipu Dam
other
Stefania Gotzer
person
Paraguay
place
Darío Pérez Chena
person
Brazil
place
Atlantic Forest
other
Minbacwera
other
Butantan Institute
organization
Three Gorges Dam
other
UN Environmental Conference
other
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