The forests of western Mexico were once alive with the vibrant colors and loud calls of large, wild populations of Military Macaws (Ara Militaris). Sadly, due to decades of illegal logging, rapid urban expansion, and devastating wildlife trafficking, these magnificent birds are now classified as being at a high risk of extinction. Today, spotting a group of Military Macaws in their natural habitat has become an extremely rare event. However, hope is on the horizon thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Txori Foundation.

A Century-Long Commitment to Conservation

Established in 1989 in response to Mexico’s growing environmental crises, the Txori Foundation has spent well over a century fighting for wildlife. Their current, most critical mission centers around a flock of 16 Military Macaws living at their sanctuary.

These 16 birds are undergoing rigorous preparation for a monumental milestone: a complete release back into the wild.

To ensure the birds possess the survival skills needed to thrive on their own, a specialized, multidisciplinary team is supervising their daily rehabilitation. This passionate network includes:

• Biologists and ethologists studying and shaping the birds’ natural behaviors.
• Veterinarians monitoring their physical health and strength.
• Photographers and volunteers documenting their progress and maintaining their environment.

The ultimate objective of this massive effort is to reintroduce the flock to their original biological corridors, helping to naturally repopulate the species and spark a true recovery for Mexico’s wild macaw populations.

The Countdown to March 2027

If everything goes according to plan, the grand release is scheduled to take place in March 2027. However, as a privately funded conservation project, Txori faces the ongoing, uphill challenge of securing steady financial resources.

Before the aviary doors can open, the Foundation must hit its fundraising goals to cover essential, non-negotiable costs, including:

• Nutritional Care: High-quality food to build up the birds’ strength.
• Medical Supplies: Ongoing specialized veterinary care.
• Tracking Technology: Microchip identification to monitor the birds safely after their release.
• Infrastructure: Vital aviary improvements to optimize their pre-release training.

A Second Chance for More Rescues

The success of the March 2027 release stretches far beyond these 16 birds. Once this current flock takes flight into freedom, critical space will open at the sanctuary. This empty aviary space will allow the Txori Foundation to take in a new wave of birds that have been victims of trafficking and abuse—giving even more macaws the rehabilitation they deserve and their own eventual ticket back to the wild.

The road to conservation is challenging, but the Txori Foundation remains deeply encouraged by the community’s growing interest and willingness to collaborate. By supporting these efforts, parrot lovers can play a direct role in bringing the Military Macaw back to the Mexican skies.

This month’s Lafeber donation goes to help these macaws in their preparation for release back into their native habitat. Would you also like to support this flock? Help share this post to spread awareness about their upcoming 2027 release or donate to the Txori Foundation directly in support of their fundraising goals!