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**International Travelers
Mexico is very fortunate because it welcomes around 300 species of animals native to Alaska, Canada and the United States, not to mention those that travel within the country in search of a more pleasing climate. Because their protection and conservation is not dependant on any one country, these animals are widely monitored (at least by the northern countries). Many of them (such as aquatic birds) are considered hunting resources and provide great economic benefits, thus their overpopulation must be avoided.
For those who enjoy bird watching, there are two magnificent options: patiently searching among the trees in uninhabited wooded areas near rivers or lakes or searching for aquatic birds. On the other hand, you may seek seabirds, although this requires investing a little more patience, time and money, the results can be worth much punishment.
** Land and Water Birds
A wide variety of migratory birds can be observed in our region. Swallows are an excellent example. Predatory birds are a coveted trophy for a photographer, and you can find them resting in the tops of tall trees or on the electrical cables in rural areas. The fishing hawk is considered the largest migratory predatory bird, and it can be observed flying over the coast searching for fish. The northern region of Vallarta is a good place to observe it, especially around Boca de Tomates and the Marina Vallarta Golf Course.
If you want to leave the hustle and bustle of the city, a magnificent option is in jungle and wooded areas located to the south, between Vallarta and El Tuito. The closest places to Vallarta are El Nogalito, Las Juntas and Los Veranos, or the Botanical Gardens. The mouth of the Cuale River is a good option within the city, but if you wish to travel up the river, go in a group, never alone.
You will be able to observe a large variety of birds, resident as well as migratory, so a field guide is strongly recommended. The most common species are mockingbirds, hummingbirds, parrots and trogonidae, but with a little luck, you may hear the magnificent “military macaw” (ara militaris) or the scandalous “west Mexican chachalaca” (ortalis poliocephala).
**Water Fowl
Aquatic birds offer a great excuse to visit the beach or board a small boat. It is highly recommended that you hire an experienced for their expertise in bird watching. The northern areas of the bay from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle to Punta de Mita (and the Marietta Islands) are the best options, although Los Arcos is an excellent alternative. The Marietta Islands offer the largest variety of aquatic birds, but a trained eye is needed to differentiate between the resident and migratory species.
Two particular species of migratory aquatic birds are an excellent objective for bird watching at sea: the “eared grebe” (podiceps nigricollis) and the “pacific loon” (gavial pacifica) from Alaska and Canada. Although they can be observed throughout the bay, they tend to flock in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and Los Arcos.
Migration is an example of wildlife’s tenacity, adapting to places that are completely different along their journey, exposing themselves to the risk of accidents, capture or hunting by humans, not to mention the effects of contaminated water and the foods they consume. Let us not make their journey any more difficult. Let’s welcome them as another visitor to our bay. Let us also remember that, in the end, tourists also appreciate this place for its natural marvels.
By Biol. Oscar Aranda Mena
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