Wanting to play a more active role in wildlife conservation and protection, Martha Armenta founded CONREHABIT (Conservation and Rehabilitation of the Habitat) in 2002, to help protect endangered species in Sinaloa and curb wildlife trafficking and illegal hunting. CONREHABIT received its non-profit status from the Inland Revenue and license to become a Wildlife Management Unit in 2004. The association also received a small parcel of land as a donation from Francisco Farriols, a 40-hectare rural property between the maxipista and the railway tracks, close to the Marina Mazatlán properties.

When federal authorities confiscate wildlife from traffickers, the animals are placed in a zoo or in the Mazatlán Aquarium. These facilities take care of their own species and have little room for additional wildlife, which require resources and veterinary care until the animals can be released back into the wild.

Hundreds of Half-Moon Conure parrots just a few weeks old were rescued in 2008. A huge rescue and feeding operation involving many foreign and local residents was involved. More than 270 birds were housed all over Mazatlán, in private homes and even in a hotel that donated a room and staff to look after these little creatures. Initially they had to be fed three times a day using baby formula and eye droppers. They were eventually transported to the CONREHABIT ranch where a large aviary was built. Most were saved and 36 remain in custody, waiting for their release when documentation is completed and the traffickers are convicted. CONREHABIT will keep eight who might not survive if released. They’ll stay at the ranch and if you visit, you’ll see them in the new aviary.

During the summer, the rescue and conservation of the Black Bellied Whistling Ducks becomes the focus of attention. The “Pato Pichichín” is a wetland species that breeds near small ponds or lagoons. Due to the disturbance of its habitat, their main breeding site is now the islands off the Mazatlán shore. The hatchlings must swim several miles with their parents, who guide them to shore to complete their breeding cycle. Interrupted by the tourist developments and modifications made by the marinas in El Sabalo Estuary, they have difficulty reaching safety. This season, approximately 250 ducks have been raised at the ranch, and there are 45 waiting for release in the next few weeks.

In addition to the rescue operations, CONREHABIT works to educate the public about conservation. It takes part in conferences and talks in schools and groups.Currently, CONREHABIT and an association of young students of engineering and architecture (RECREA) are working together to create a nursery of regional trees.

CONREHABIT is always in need of donations either of food or cash. All money goes to the feeding and care of the animals and upkeep of the ranch.

If you would like to donate or get involved, please contact Martha Armenta at 669-984-4307, by email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit www. conrehabit.org.