Cozumel Bird Festival: 30 Species Spotted

Cozumel, Mexico — The Foundation of Parks and Museums of Cozumel (FPMC) actively participated in the XVII Isla Cozumel Bird Festival, held from October 24 to 26, contributing to the promotion of knowledge, appreciation, and conservation of the island's biodiversity through educational, recreational, and nature observation activities.

Thanks to the support provided by the FPMC's General Director, Juanita Alonso Marrufo, the Laguna Colombia State Ecological Park in Punta Sur and the San Gervasio Tourist Parador opened their doors to receive more than 150 participants from Cozumel and various states of the Mexican Republic, who enjoyed the bird watching activities scheduled during the festival.

The event was a success thanks to the teamwork of the Isla Cozumel Bird Committee, comprised of the University of Quintana Roo (UQROO), the Quintana Roo Tourism Promotion Council in Cozumel, the Cozumel Hotel Association, the Cozumel City Council, the Cha'an Ka'an Planetarium, the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP), and, of course, the FPMC.

As part of the activities, on Saturday, October 25, participants gathered in the early morning hours at the emblematic Celarain Lighthouse, within the Punta Sur Natural Protected Area. Staff from the Directorate of Conservation and Environmental Education (CEA), from Punta Sur, and from the Corazón Urban Park acted as nature guides, sharing knowledge and experiences with the attendees. During this session, 30 bird species were identified.

Later, the FPMC participated in the Environmental Fair with the interactive table "Playing Among Wings," where children and families enjoyed games such as bingo, riddles, and bird-themed memory games, in addition to an exhibition of biological samples that sparked great interest among the public.

In a complementary manner, staff from the Directorate of Pedagogy and Social Assistance, in coordination with the Corazón Urban Park, taught the workshop "Discovering the Wings and Mycelium of Cozumel," where specimens of local fungi were presented and bookmarks were made from recycled materials, integrating art, science, and environmental awareness.

The activities continued on Sunday, October 26, at the San Gervasio Tourist Parador, an emblematic site for its history and natural wealth, where another observation session was held, also registering 30 species of birds.

During the tour, guides and expert observers shared techniques for responsible observation, fostering respect for birds and wildlife. At the end, participants visited the Pollinator Garden, a space that promotes the care of species essential for the island's ecological balance.

The FPMC's General Director, Juanita Alonso Marrufo, emphasized that the institution's participation in this festival reflects its commitment to the New Agreement for the Well-being and Development of Quintana Roo, promoted by Governor Mara Lezama, which seeks to strengthen the community's bond with nature and foster a sense of belonging and environmental responsibility.

"The success of this festival is the result of the joint effort of the Isla Cozumel Bird Committee. Thanks to the collaboration between institutions, associations, and the community, we managed to bring more people closer to the wonderful world of birds and strengthen environmental education on the island," expressed Juanita Alonso.

With these actions, the Foundation of Parks and Museums of Cozumel reaffirms its commitment to environmental education, the conservation of biodiversity, and the promotion of sustainable ecotourism on the island.