Cozumel’s municipal government, led by José Luis Chacón Méndez, continues to champion environmental education and the protection of endemic species through its bird monitoring and ecological initiatives. One such effort, the “Mangrove Chipes of Cozumel,” recently brought a group of children closer to nature while nurturing an appreciation for the island’s rich biodiversity.
As part of this activity, participants from the “Go Birdwatching in Yucatán” program explored Cozumel’s Senior Citizens’ Park to observe migratory bird species that frequent the island. Deputy Director of Ecology, Noel Anselmo Rivas, underscored the importance of these urban parks. “These parks, managed by the municipality, house native vegetation that is vital for the survival of many species, including the White-fronted Lorikeet, the White-crowned Dove, and the Black-throated Hummingbird,” Rivas explained.
The initiative aims to engage children aged 6 to 12 in hands-on learning experiences using atlases and field observation. These activities help participants recognize and study different bird species while fostering socio-emotional skills through teamwork and collaboration.
“Our mission is to promote a sustainable Cozumel by educating younger generations about environmental conservation,” Rivas said. “This ensures the preservation of our natural resources for the future.”
The “Chipes Mangleros” birdwatching group also welcomes new members eager to explore the wonders of ornithology. During the program, children receive training in bird identification, binocular use, and environmental stewardship. Data collected during excursions is shared via “averAves,” a citizen science platform that provides real-time information on bird distribution and populations to scientists and researchers worldwide.
Through these initiatives, Cozumel is cultivating a new generation of environmental advocates, one birdwatching adventure at a time.
Source: Cancun Mio
