Reducing the gap between scientific knowledge and decision-making processes in a threatened species

Abstract

Scientists from different parts of the world have worked on understanding threats affecting vultures. In the case of the threatened Andean condor (Vultur gryphus), their ecology and threats were poorly studied until the last decade. Today, there is not only more information, but there are also several action plans for this species in different parts of their distribution range. Those plans are beginning to be based on scientific evidence and experience of scientists and diverse stakeholders, thus reducing the gap between scientific knowledge and decision-making processes. To illustrate this, we discuss here some successful results obtained by scientists, managers, policy makers and diverse stakeholders working in the conservation of Andean condors. We show some examples of how scientific evidence, and the knowledge and participation of different parties, helped to start promoting regulations for two of the main threats affecting this species, poisoning and lead contamination.