Cozumel Bird Monitoring Reveals 200 Species at Punta Sur

Cozumel, Mexico — The Cozumel Parks and Museums Foundation (FPMC) is permanently strengthening monitoring and recording actions for avifauna at Punta Sur Ecotourism Park, a protected natural area where approximately 200 bird species have been documented, representing more than 50 percent of the known avifauna on the island, including uncommon species, Cozumel endemics, and those under some category of environmental protection.

Through the Conservation and Environmental Education Directorate (CEA), FPMC has been developing a systematic ornithological monitoring program for over a decade that allows analysis of the richness, abundance, and behavior of species that inhabit or visit Punta Sur, a key site that offers refuge, rest, and food for resident and migratory birds.

This work is carried out using the “Point Count” methodology, applied monthly throughout the year, which has allowed identification of patterns associated with winter migration and documentation of greater species richness during the fall and winter months, when numerous birds arrive in Cozumel from North America in search of food and safe resting areas.

As a result of monitoring conducted during 2025, a wide diversity of species was recorded, including herons, ibises, and shorebirds, as well as uncommon birds like the brown noddy (Anous stolidus) and the swallow-tailed kite (Elanoides forficatus). Additionally, the presence of Cozumel endemic species was documented, including the Cozumel emerald (Cynanthus forficatus), Cozumel vireo (Vireo bairdi), Cozumel warbler (Setophaga petechia rufivertex), and Cozumel blue-gray gnatcatcher (Polioptila caerulea cozumelae).

FPMC General Director Juanita Alonso Marrufo emphasized that these actions are part of the institutional commitment to conserving the island’s natural heritage and align with the objectives of the New Agreement for the Well-being and Development of Quintana Roo. “Bird monitoring is fundamental for evaluating the health of our ecosystems and strengthening conservation strategies that guarantee social well-being and sustainable development for present and future generations,” she stated.

With the active participation of CEA staff, as well as community volunteers, the institution reaffirms its commitment to monitoring, researching, and conserving avifauna, consolidating Punta Sur Ecotourism Park as a strategic site for bird protection, preservation of Cozumel’s natural heritage, and promotion of sustainable nature tourism.