Many of the animals we care for are endangered species and the vast majority of these have been rehabilitated and are free to live in Parque Machía in natural societies without confinement. Many others have been reintroduced in to the wild outside the park.

All animals not released receive full-time individual care. This provides the best possible chance for successful rehabilitation, giving volunteers a magical and educational experience and sets a strong example of respect for nature to visitors, encouraging tropical pet owners to surrender their animals to the refuge.

The refuge is run by Tania Baltazar (Nena), and several other permanent Bolivian volunteers. They are aided by non-permanent volunteers who come from all over the world for a minimum of two weeks. They help clean and build cages, prepare food, tend to sick animals, create new trails, and give explanations to tourists. All personnel are volunteers.

The wild cats are walked every day, all day, through the park trails built for them. The monkeys have formed groups, each having its own alpha male and group of governing females. They are often heard and seen in the treetops, playing and foraging. Many species of birds can be seen, their once cropped feathers slowly growing back.

Unfortunately the refuge is not funded by the Bolivian government or by any other organization. Expenses are growing. New animals are constantly arriving. More permanent personnel are needed. New quarantine areas need to be closed off. Medicine, laboratory supplies, food and other necessities need to be bought.

Find out more about Volunteering at Parque Machia

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