Join the Rescue: Sponsor Birds at Risk at a Yucatan Refuge

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The Santa María Project, a refuge in Yucatan, has launched a campaign inviting citizens to “sponsor” endangered birds. This sanctuary is home to over 150 birds, including yellow-cheeked parrots, blue-crowned parrots, yellow-headed parrots, white-fronted parrots, Yucatecan parrots, and green macaws, all of which have been victims of abuse, illegal trafficking, or abandonment.

Parrots like Waco and Patachín have received specialized care to recover. Waco overcame a 20-gram tumor after months of treatment, while Patachín, a 16-year-old yellow-cheeked parrot, was rehabilitated thanks to the dedicated care of the staff.

Donations for Food and Medicine

Those interested can become sponsors with monthly contributions to cover special food and medicine. Sponsors will receive a certificate of appreciation, monthly updates on their bird, a guided tour of the rehabilitation center, and recognition on the shelter’s website.

José Pierre Medina, director of the Santa María Project, explained that many of these birds have suffered due to illegal trade. “It’s a cultural issue; people say: ‘I love it, it’s my family,’ but their love hurts,” he said.

Santa María Project: 14 Years of Protecting Birds

For 14 years, the Santa María Project has focused on bird conservation and raising awareness about illegal activities that harm these species. In addition to combating wildlife trafficking, the shelter also rehabilitates birds injured by accidents or abandonment.

Rosa Tun, a volunteer at the shelter, shared that caring for these birds requires patience and dedication, adapting to the needs of each species. Their diet includes fruit in the morning and seeds, croquettes, corn, and chickpeas in the afternoon.

Source: UNO TV