Advancing the study, visibility, and conservation of Colombia’s wildlife
FEDIC FAUNA is a foundation dedicated to the scientific study and public visibility of the country’s wildlife. Through research, outreach, and educational initiatives, we generate reliable knowledge, share it with society, and strengthen the connection between people and Colombia’s extraordinary fauna.
FEDIC FAUNA was born from a shared commitment to studying and shining a light on Colombia’s extraordinary biodiversity. Its origins lie in the academic path of Ernesto Mai, a Swiss biology student with a strong interest in Neotropical ecosystems, shaped by field research on frog communities in Uganda’s Budongo Forest and later by Master’s research in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia, focused on the functional diversity of amphibians along an altitudinal gradient.
During field expeditions in the Sierra Nevada, close collaboration with Colombian biologist Rubén Fontalvo led to long discussions on the richness of Colombia’s fauna, the vast knowledge gaps that still exist, and the urgent need to connect science, education, and conservation. Sharing a broad interest in wildlife across all taxa and a common vision for the future, they decided to create a foundation capable of promoting research, training new biologists, disseminating scientific knowledge, and supporting conservation efforts.
FEDIC FAUNA was officially founded in November 2025 and is now developing research projects, building partnerships, and working to establish a strong foundation dedicated to the study, outreach, and conservation of Colombia’s wildlife.
The team of dedicated biologists leading our mission to understand and showcase Colombia’s wildlife.
President
Ruben Fontalvo is a biologist passionate about the biodiversity of the Colombian Caribbean. With a career dedicated to studying the region’s fauna, he combines scientific rigor with strong experience in environmental education to promote conservation across the territory.
Secretary
Ernesto Mai is a biologist specialized in amphibian and reptile ecology, with field experience across Colombia, Africa, and Europe.
Treasurer
Darlis Gamarra is a biologist motivated by the development of conservation initiatives and the responsible management of natural resources.
Our primary focus areas include scientific research, creation of outreaching material and conservation projects
To consolidate a network of research stations at the national level which, through partnerships with universities and implementation of active programs in schools, will generate knowledge about fauna, training future conservationists, and inspiring a national culture of respect and conservation for natural heritage.
To study and actively protect wildlife and its habitats, generating rigorous scientific knowledge and promoting public awareness and engagement to ensure their long-term conservation.
