Cozumel Birdwatching Event Boosts Conservation Efforts

Cozumel, Mexico — As part of its efforts to foster environmental awareness in the community, the Fundación de Parques y Museos de Cozumel (FPMC) hosted the event "Discovering the Wings of Cozumel: Avifauna of the Island" at the Parque Urbano Corazón. The activity is part of the initiatives leading up to the XVII Festival of Birds, which this year carries the theme "Shared and Safe Spaces for Birds."

Aligning with Conservation Efforts

Framed within the New Agreement for Well-being and Development of Quintana Roo, promoted by Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa, the event aimed to raise awareness about the diversity of birds inhabiting Cozumel and highlight the importance of birdwatching as a tool for promoting responsible tourism that contributes to the conservation of natural resources.

FPMC Director General Juanita Alonso Marrufo emphasized that these community engagement spaces strengthen the bond between society and its natural environment, fostering awareness from an early age.

A Day of Learning and Observation

The event was organized by the Directorate of Pedagogy and Social Assistance (PAS), in coordination with the collective "Pajareando Cozumel" and staff from Parque Urbano Corazón. The day began with a warm welcome and an introductory talk by biologist Adrián Andrés Tun Cano, who covered topics such as the general characteristics of birds, endemic species on the island, key species found in the park, and the crucial role these organisms play in ecosystems—including seed dispersal, pest control, and pollination.

Participants then received a brief training session on the proper use of binoculars and field guides for bird identification, led by the Pajareando Cozumel collective. This was followed by a guided birdwatching walk through Parque Urbano Corazón, where attendees identified 22 bird species, including the Black Catbird, Yucatan Vireo, Cozumel Emerald, Yucatan Woodpecker, Bananaquit, White-crowned Pigeon, and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher.

Interactive and Educational Activities

As sightings were recorded, an educational bingo-style game was conducted, featuring specially designed cards to visually recognize the park’s birds, creating a fun and participatory learning experience.

To conclude, the community was invited to participate in the XVII Festival of Birds, scheduled for October, which will include a wide range of educational, cultural, and birdwatching activities for all ages.

Through initiatives like this, the FPMC reaffirms its commitment to creating spaces for education, reflection, and community engagement that strengthen environmental awareness and respect for Cozumel’s biodiversity.