World · Latin America · 1 hr ago
Bioparc opens in Sinaloa with more than 800 rescued animals
Bioparc El Encanto has opened in Sinaloa, a state in western Mexico that has faced more than two years of violence.
The conservation centre is home to more than 800 animals, including giraffes, zebras, hippos and ostriches rescued from illegal trade, neglect or abuse.
More than 40 jaguars, tigers and lions were seized after operations against illegal wildlife possession and trafficking, including from homes linked to criminals.
The park covers more than 400 hectares, but its first 100 hectares are now open to visitors for safari-style tours.
The big cats are in quarantine and are being checked by veterinarians; the goal is to return them to nature once their health and nutrition are adequate.
The project has covered the animals’ transport and medical care in support of Mexico’s government.
It also plans to bring in American bison from Chihuahua to help preserve the species, which nearly disappeared from northwestern Mexico.
Bioparc, a wildlife conservation centre in Sinaloa, began operations with more than 800 animals.
More than 40 big cats, including jaguars, tigers and lions, were rescued after being seized in operations linked to illegal possession and wildlife trafficking.
The first 100 hectares are open to visitors, with a safari-style route and areas for interacting with wildlife.
The project covers more than 400 hectares and represents an investment of 1.2 billion pesos, according to its director.
The rescued big cats are in quarantine and under veterinary care while their health and nutrition are assessed.
- Who
- Bioparc El Encanto, a wildlife conservation centre, and more than 800 animals.
- What
- The centre opened with rescued wildlife, including more than 40 big cats.
- When
- It began operations on Friday, November 13, 2026, and was due to receive its first visitors on Saturday.
- Where
- At kilometre 26 of the Mazatlán–Culiacán free highway in Sinaloa, Mexico.
- Why
- To conserve wildlife and provide rescued animals with care; the project also aims to promote tourism and economic activity in nearby communities.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Bioparc began operations with its first 100 hectares open to the public.
The centre was scheduled to receive its first visitors from 9:00 to 17:00.
- Animals
- More than 800
- Big cats
- More than 40 jaguars, tigers and lions
- Public area at opening
- First 100 hectares
- Total planned area
- More than 400 hectares
- Investment
- 1.2 billion pesos
What people are saying
un respiro o un bálsamo
un oasis en medio del desierto de malas noticias y la violencia que vive nuestro querido estado