XCARET, QUINTANA ROO, MEXICO; JANUARY 2018. – “The year 2018 will mark a new era in the life of the scarlet macaw (Ara Macao), as this year will double the population of the species that inhabited the jungles of Mexico before the reintroduction,” said Rodolfo Raigoza Figueras, Director of Conservation of the Experiencias Xcaret Group.
The specialist informed that the closing figures of 2017 confirm that 235 new specimens of scarlet macaw successfully inhabit the jungles of Los Tuxtlas, in Veracruz, as well as in the Palenque region of Chiapas. This reveals that the number of 250 individuals that lived in such ecosystems in April 2013 when the reintroduction process began will soon be exceeded. “Having managed to increase the population of the species by 97% is a great achievement, and is the result of the work of many people and agencies involved,” said the specialist.
In this sense, Raigoza Figueras recognized the support of the Institute of Biology of the UNAM, of Acajungla, AC, the Ecopark Aluxes, the reserves of Nanciyaga and the Other Option, as well as the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP), the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and Defenders of Wildlife and Ancient Forest, AC.
The success of the reintroduction is based on the reproduction program of the scarlet macaw, which Xcaret started in 1994. Thanks to this program it is possible to provide specimens, born under human care, to the reserves of Chiapas and Veracruz, in coordination with the environmental authorities and non-profit organizations. In addition to intensive work to ensure the conditions that allow the survival of specimens in the wild, the awareness of local communities has been fostered to stop the capture and illicit trafficking of the species and, on the contrary, to awaken pride around the emblematic bird, which in pre-Hispanic times was considered a deity associated with the sun. Raigoza Figueras assured that Xcaret will continue to donate specimens to support the project and reach the goals established in 2013.
ABOUT XCARET
Xcaret is Mexico’s Majestic Paradise located on the shore of the Caribbean Sea. Here you can find three Underground Rivers surrounded by magnificent natural scenery. The Park also features amazing marine and land species, protected by Xcaret’s conservation programs, and a grand spectacle with more than 300 artists on stage.
