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Birds

We work for wildlife

At Mateus Foundation we seek to enhance the work of conservation and animal welfare through strategic alliances, professional counseling and training, and continuous support to wildlife rescue centers.

Management and support for rescue centers: We work hand in hand with rescue centers and nature reserves providing logistical, technical and professional assistance in rehabilitation of animals in captivity, ensuring their welfare and reintegration into their natural habitat, whenever possible.

Specialized training: We offer continuous and personalized training to rescue centers’ personnel, environmental authorities and local communities. Our approach covers: proper handling of different species, practical aid in illegal trafficking cases, proper care of birds of prey, and many other key topics.

Counselling for conservation projects: We provide comprehensive coaching during the planning and execution of environmental conservation programs, helping to optimize processes, to improve administrative management, and to ensure that each action has the maximal positive impact on wildlife.

Financial and strategic support: We facilitate fundraising and collaborate on the improvement of administrative processes. We strengthen wildlife centers’ long-term sustainability by providing and securing crucial resources to continue with their environmental protection efforts.

Why is conservation important?

The Mateus Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to biodiversity conservation, animal welfare and environmental education in Ecuador. Through projects such as Jardín Alado, it promotes wildlife rehabilitation, scientific research and the creation of learning spaces for all ages. Its approach combines science, community and nature, driven by the belief that protecting wildlife is essential to safeguarding our own future.

Success stories

Jardín Alado is a rescue, rehabilitation and reintegration center for birds of prey and psittacine birds, located by the Ilaló volcano. Managed by the Mateus Foundation that works with species which have been rescued from illegal trafficking, mistreatment or inadequate captivity. In addition to its conservation work, the center offers educational experiences and community workshops that inspire a deeper bond with nature. Each bird rehabilitated and released represents an act of ecological restoration and hope.

How can you support our mission?

There are many ways you can make a difference. You can help with donations through the Mateus Foundation or share our work to raise awareness about the importance of protecting biodiversity. Also, you can visit Jardín Alado – where your entrance ticket works as a sponsorship – to interact with their various species of rescued animals and contribute directly to the care of birds in Ecuador.

Upcoming Events

Our zoo is a place where people of all ages can come and learn about animals.

Zebra Print

Support a project

Every project we support is born out of a commitment to wildlife. By joining, you become part of real stories of care, recovery and hope. Your support makes it possible for more animals to find a second chance.

March 17, 2023

Koala needs help

These beautiful yet dangerous creatures need your help today, unfortunately. They are being endangered every day because of hunters and hunger in some regions.

February 22, 2023

Big Cats Need Help

These beautiful yet dangerous creatures need your help today, unfortunately. They are being endangered every day because of hunters and hunger in some regions.

January 13, 2023

Support Fox

These beautiful yet dangerous creatures need your help today, unfortunately. They are being endangered every day because of hunters and hunger in some regions.

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I come from London and I am 19 years old. In Jardín Alado, I really enjoy cleaning the turtle area and helping with the birds. They are sweet, we can feed them and take care of them. The work is hard but a lot of fun. Also, I have improved my Spanish a lot thanks to the team.

Luca

UK Volunteer

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I came to Ecuador and found this project almost by chance. I have had a wonderful four weeks here. I recommend it to anyone who loves animals and wants to give back to a local community.

Jamie

U.S. Volunteer

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I volunteer at Jardín Alado and I love it. Being able to work with birds is amazing for me. The people here are very nice. It's a blessing to live this experience.

Ocean Theenby

Volunteer from Germany

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I was looking for an ecological and sustainable project, and I found Jardín Alado. It is a very special place, with many tasks to do. It fills you with joy to be part of this cause.

Laura

Volunteer from Germany

Find answers to your questions here.

We believe that safeguarding the world’s wildlife is not just a spur of the moment act, but a legacy we owe to the future.

What is the Mateus Foundation?

It is a non-profit organization in charge of the administrative processes for Jardín Alado Rescue Center, ensuring that all funds received go exclusively to its environmental conservation projects.

Can I hold special events at Jardin Alado?

You can organize personal or institutional events in our facilities and share with your guests a space full of life, nature and love for birds. Each encounter becomes an experience with purpose, connecting your family or company with biodiversity and conservation.

Where is it located?

Jardín Alado is located 20 minutes away from the city of Quito. At 7 minutes away from Cumbayá, over the Intevalles avenue, Ruta Viva kilometer #9.

When are they open?

We are open to the public on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. If you wish to make an educational visit or an institutional event, we can also organize private activities during the week. You just need to contact our advisors to coordinate the details.

Are they pet friendly?

Out of respect and safety for our wild birds, Jardín Alado is not pet friendly. However, we do have a specially designated area where you can leave your dogs while you tour or enjoy our exhibits. This area also includes safe spaces where you can play with them without affecting the welfare of our birds.

What is the impact of my entrance fee?

When you visit Jardín Alado, your admission becomes a valuable sponsorship. Each contribution goes entirely to the care of the rescued animals and to the sustenance of the team that works with dedication everyday to protect them. You can also make voluntary donations through this page by clicking on the Donate icon.

What kind of birds are found at Jardín Alado?

At Jardín Alado rescue center we house a variety of species, both native and exotic, which have been victims of illegal wildlife trafficking. Some of them, such as Australian cockatoos and parakeets, that come from other countries, cannot be released even if rehabilitated because they do not belong to our local ecosystem and could become a threat to the Ecuadorian biodiversity.

What is the rehabilitation process about?

In Jardín Alado, we have a special area for our temporary guests, which are wild animals that are in the process of recovery from an injury, and that have not been kept in captivity. There, they receive the necessary care to regain their health and get ready to be released back into their habitat. For the welfare of these animals, these areas are not open to the public.

Stories from our blog.

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Every action counts to give a second chance to those who need to be heard.