“These endangered birds face relentless pressure from poachers and habitat loss, so every military macaw represents hope and a stronger future for the species’ population in Mexico."

juan carlos cantu, mexico program, defenders of wildlife
Puerta Vallarta, Mexico

Eleven military macaw fledglings have now joined the growing wild population after a successful nesting season for Defenders of Wildlife’s and Unidos por las Guacamayas’ military macaw project in Puerta Vallarta, Mexico. 

Military macaws are one of the most sought after species for the illegal pet trade and were the third most commonly seized species of parrot in Mexico.

“These endangered birds face relentless pressure from poachers and habitat loss, so every military macaw represents hope and a stronger future for the species’ population in Mexico,” said Juan Carlos Cantu, who works on the project for Defenders of Wildlife. 

One of the nests in the project almost fell victim to a poacher, who removed one chick from the nest. However, when he went back for a second chick, he fell from the tree and was injured. When he was discovered and apprehended, the stolen chick was returned to the nest. The rescued chick later fledged.
 

For nearly 80 years, Defenders of Wildlife has worked to protect and restore America’s wildlife at risk of extinction, advancing a vision of a future in which wildlife thrives, sustained by broad public support and a resilient network of healthy lands and waters. With a network of more than 2 million supporters, Defenders is an advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard wildlife for generations to come. To learn more, please visit https://defenders.org/newsroom or follow us on Instagram @defendersofwildlife.  

 

Media Contact

Hawk Hammer headshot
Hawk Hammer
Former Communications Specialist
Juan Carlos Cantu
Juan Carlos Cantú
Director, Mexico Program

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