The Peregrine Fund embarked on a significant initiative in 1989 aimed at conserving Harpy Eagles, focusing on captive breeding and habitat restoration. Collaborating with several Latin American nations such as Panama, Ecuador, and Venezuela, the program acquired eagles from national zoos and similar facilities, establishing a captive breeding effort based at their headquarters in Boise, Idaho.

Recognizing the need for a more suitable environment akin to the eagles’ natural habitat, The Peregrine Fund constructed specialized chambers in Boise to simulate rainforest conditions, attempting to enhance breeding success. However, only 10 Harpy Eagle chicks survived to hatching within seven years, prompting a shift in strategy.

Understanding the importance of an environment more aligned with the eagles’ natural habitat, The Peregrine Fund inaugurated the Neotropical Raptor Center and breeding facility in Panama City, Panama, in 2001. This new facility, designed to mimic the eagles’ natural environment, yielded significant success, with 17 eagles hatching in its inaugural year alone.

The Peregrine Fund furthered their mission by releasing captive birds back into the wild until 2008, contributing valuable insights and expertise in the conservation of large, tropical forest raptors.

Concurrently, an extensive educational campaign was undertaken to dispel myths and promote conservation efforts for Harpy Eagles. This campaign involved school talks, community engagement, teacher workshops, radio messages, jingles, and festivals, altering public perceptions about these majestic birds. Panama’s declaration of the Harpy Eagle as its national bird in 2002, supported by The Peregrine Fund’s efforts, marked a significant milestone in their conservation journey.

A notable participant in the educational campaign was Luigi, a Harpy Eagle hatched in Boise, who became an ambassador, visiting schools and communities in Panama to showcase the gentle nature of Harpy Eagles and advocate for their protection. Luigi retired in 2013 and relocated to Florida, leaving a lasting impact on conservation education efforts.