Cozumel Bird Festival Records 70 Species Across Island Sites

Cozumel, Quintana Roo — Observers recorded 70 bird species during the 18th Cozumel Island Bird Festival, drawing 112 participants to guided walks at the Punta Sur Ecotourism Park and the area surrounding the San Gervasio tourist stop.

The Cozumel Parks and Museums Foundation (FPMC), a member of the organizing committee, opened access to the natural sites to bring residents and visitors closer to the island’s biodiversity. Among the standout sightings were the osprey, the painted bunting and the Cozumel emerald hummingbird, along with endemic species such as the Cozumel wren and the Cozumel cardinal.

The program also featured workshops on island ecosystems, citizen science and biological illustration, which drew 43 participants. Organizers reported that 190 people attended a screening of the documentary “Flamingos: Life After the Meteorite” and a lecture on the Cozumel thrasher delivered by researcher Juan Martínez of INECOL.

During the gathering, the organizing committee presented Martínez with the CUZAM recognition for his career work on behalf of the Cozumel thrasher, an endangered species, and for the research he has led since 2003 to promote its protection.

The festival closed with an environmental fair at Benito Juárez park, where 16 organizations presented projects on restoration, citizen monitoring and the promotion of the island’s natural and cultural heritage. The event brought together institutions, specialists and community groups to advance environmental education and the conservation of the island’s biodiversity.