ANA DÁVILA

• Role: Head of Outreach and Development
• Organisation: Merazonia Wildlife Reserve

Raised with a deep respect for nature, my lifelong fascination with the
animal world led me to study Biology and, subsequently, pursue a degree
in Applied Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare at the University of
Edinburgh. Early experiences in environmental education taught me the
power of public awareness and I also knew that effective conservation
required a profound scientific understanding of animal needs.

Upon returning to Ecuador, I began volunteering at Merazonia. Inspired
by their ethical and professional approach to wildlife rehabilitation, I
deepened my involvement and now serve as their Outreach & Development
Coordinator. In this role, I establish volunteering agreements, organize
regional awareness events, collaborate with local organizations and help
inspire a global community through our programs and digital platforms.

Beyond wildlife conservation, I have partnered with various NGOs to
promote science-based welfare standards mainly for farm and companion
animals. My advocacy work includes developing operational guidelines for
animal refuges and laying hen facilities, and presenting before the
National Assembly’s Biodiversity Commission on animal sentience to
defend the Organic Animal Law. I remain personally and professionally
committed to inspiring compassionate, evidence-based change for all
species.

At Merazonia Wildlife Reserve, we believe wild animals belong in the
wild. In the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon, we rescue and rehabilitate
animals affected by illegal wildlife trafficking and human activity,
with one ultimate goal: to give them back their freedom. But our work
goes beyond individual animals. We protect the rainforest they depend
on, improve our rehabilitation and release methods through research and
monitoring, and inspire generations through education, awareness and
hands-on conservation. Every animal returned to the wild and every piece
of rainforest protected brings us closer to our vision: a thriving
Amazon where wildlife can live wild and free.

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