Celestún Strengthens Restrictions in Pink Flamingo Nesting Zones During Breeding Season

Celestún, Yucatán — Environmental and municipal authorities have strengthened protection measures in pink flamingo nesting zones within the Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve, where access remains restricted during the breeding season to safeguard this emblematic species.

The regulations aim to prevent any disturbance that could endanger both adult birds and their chicks, particularly during this critical reproductive stage.

Authorities have placed visible signage warning against entering the delimited areas, which are considered ecologically sensitive zones.

Key restrictions include:

• No approaching nests or provoking flamingos to fly, as these actions can stress the birds and cause them to abandon their chicks.
• Avoiding noise, drone use, camera flashes, and bright clothing that could alter natural behavior.
• Prohibiting the opening of paths within nesting zones, which modifies the environment and facilitates human access to critical reproduction areas.
• For tourism activities: avoiding navigation with engines running near flamingos and reducing boat speeds in the area.
• Keeping pets out of the area, as they pose additional risks to wildlife.

Officials warned that violating these regulations could constitute a federal crime due to the negative impact such actions have on biodiversity and protected ecosystems.

The Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve is one of the main refuges for pink flamingos in Mexico and a key reproduction site on the Yucatán Peninsula. These measures aim to ensure the species’ preservation and maintain environmental balance in the region.