Selva Teenek Ecopark
A photo realistic image of a jaguarundi kitten created by AI
Selva Teenek Ecopark, nestled in the heart of Mexico’s lush Huasteca region, stands as a beacon of hope for native wildlife—especially wild cats—that have been orphaned, injured, or displaced. This progressive facility goes far beyond the concept of a traditional eco-lodge or sanctuary; it seamlessly merges conservation, rehabilitation, and education in a setting that welcomes visitors to experience nature’s wonders while supporting vital rescue work.
A Mission Rooted in Rehabilitation and Rewilding
Founded in 2016, Selva Teenek Ecopark is recognized by government wildlife authorities as one of the few centers in Mexico devoted specifically to releasing rehabilitated animals back into their natural habitats. Where many facilities may offer lifelong care for unreleasable animals, Selva Teenek's focus is clear: to restore wild animals—especially felines like ocelots, jaguarundis, and bobcats—to vibrant, self-sustaining lives in the wild. Their work is guided by strict legal and technical protocols, ensuring every release prioritizes the animal’s welfare and ecosystem health.
Recent success stories from the Ecopark highlight this mission. In collaboration with international partners like Big Cat Rescue, Selva Teenek has provided expert care and rehabilitation for two ocelots, a jaguarundi named Moka, and two bobcats—all with the goal of returning them to the forests where they belong. The rehabilitation process addresses physical healing, nutritional support, veterinary monitoring, and crucial “rewilding”—teaching animals to hunt, avoid human contact, and recognize natural dangers.
A Careful and Collaborative Approach
Selva Teenek’s operations showcase how effective wildlife rescue hinges on knowledge, compassion, and collaboration. Their veterinarian-led team works in close partnership with agencies like PROFEPA (Mexico’s environmental protection authority), Centro Integral de Salud Animal, and conservation networks such as the Ocelot Working Group. This multi-tiered approach ensures that every animal’s journey—from rescue to release—is scientifically informed and meticulously tracked.
Support from organizations like Big Cat Rescue has been instrumental. Funding covers medications, food, and critical staff salaries, empowering the Ecopark to concentrate on their strengths: caring for small wild cats through every stage of rehabilitation, and monitoring their progress post-release with technology such as GPS collars. These collars allow conservationists to follow the animals’ adaptation to their new freedom—making data-driven decisions about future rescues and releases. In fact, Selva Teenek will soon release another healthy ocelot back into Mexico’s forests, evidence of their growing expertise and impact.
Impact on Wild Cat Conservation
Perhaps most inspiring is the Ecopark’s role as a model for community engagement and environmental stewardship. Their location doubles as an eco-tourism hub, educating visitors on the importance of native species, the dangers of illegal wildlife trade, and the beauty of ethical travel. Guests who stay in their jungle cabins enjoy memorable tours that include nocturnal wildlife feeding sessions, often catching glimpses of big cats in very natural conditions. For animal lovers and eco-model travelers alike, knowing that their visit directly supports conservation makes the experience deeply rewarding.
Selva Teenek is praised not only for the quality of care provided to rescued animals but also for the transformative educational opportunities they offer. Local students and volunteers are trained in animal care and environmental science, fostering a new generation of conservationists. Moreover, Selva Teenek is a woman-led organization—a powerful testament to inclusive leadership in conservation.
A Call for Continued Support and Global Unity
Despite the successes, the need for ongoing support and broader government recognition remains urgent. Wild cat species—like jaguarundis, ocelots, and bobcats—face increasing threats from habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. Centers like Selva Teenek represent a lifeline not just for individual animals, but for the survival of entire species in Mexico and beyond.
Thanks to strategic partnerships and donor generosity, Selva Teenek Ecopark continues to lead the way in rescue, rehabilitation, and rewilding. Their story reminds us all that meaningful conservation requires unity, innovation, and persistent dedication. When we support such vital work—through outreach, donations, or responsible travel—we truly unleash the possibility for wild cats and their habitats to thrive once again.
Follow Selva Teenek Ecopark on Facebook for real-time updates, and join in supporting their life-changing mission to rehabilitate and return wild cats to the wild. Every action, every contribution, and every share brings us one step closer to a future where big cats roam free, and Mexico’s natural heritage is preserved for generations to come.
Sources:
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7GSac14zck
