The Incredible Bio-Diversity of Wildlife in Mexico

Mexico has major differences in climate and landscape, which causes a wide variety of flora and fauna. From mountains and jungles to distinct ocean waters not to mention coral reefs, there is lots for the tourist to experience. See Bird Watching Tours here.

The range of wildlife in Mexico is wonderful; about thirty thousand flowering plants grow there, like bougainvillea, magnolia, orchids, frangipani and many others.

The plant that's largely linked to Mexico is, evidently, the cactus. There can be over 89 species of Cacti family growing in the country. An intriguing fact is that the old name of Mexico City was Tenochtitlan, which suggests 'place of the sacred cactus' in the language of the ancient Aztecs who lived in it.

Thousands of species of insect live in Mexico, with the butterfly together with moth species alone numbering over 2,000. Some of the most interesting butterfly species which can be observed in this place are the Giant Sickle-wing, Two-Barred Flasher, Tropical Buckeye and so much more.

More than one thousand species of birds nest, raise their chicks, and live year-round in Mexico. Most of the most typical and well-known bird species which can be present in Mexico are parrots, toucans, flamingos, ibis, humming birds and macaws. See the list of Bird Watching Tours here.

Among the most prized as well as most stunning birds whose feathers Maya, Aztec and other Mesoamerican civilizations put to use as decorations and in ceremonies is the quetzal. In these days this bird is very rare and is in danger of extinction. They even imagined a few of their deities wearing a decoration created from its feathers.

The underwater life is incredibly diverse. Many vacation goers visit Mexico yearly to get the opportunity to swim with the sea lions, whale sharks, and giant sea turtles. The diversity of underwater life doesn't stop there - many creatures like giant mantas, barracuda, sardines, swordfish and mackerel are merely a small part of the local marine life.

Through the winter season, many migrating gray whales can be viewed on their path from the Bering Sea to their feeding and breeding grounds. These giants may become up to 52 feet long and can weigh approximately 36 tons. A group of these animals swimming together to their feeding grounds is one thing that is certainly worth watching.

Almost never, whenever they are fortunate, a traveler could see the West Indian Manatee in the lagoons of Sian Ka'an, nevertheless these large sea mammals are very rare, hence seeing them is indeed determined by luck. These are huge, gray mammal animals which could grow up to 14 feet in length. They have very interesting paddle-like limbs and tail.

When you're thinking of land wildlife in Mexico, the diversity is amazing as well. Several kinds of reptiles such as turtles, crocodiles and spine-tailed iguana dwell in the lakes, rivers and also forests of the Yucatan Peninsula.

All the other land animals that a number of vacationers want to see incorporate puma, lynx, wolves, jaguars, ocelots, tapirs, bears and monkeys. Coming across most of these creatures in the wilds tend to be unsafe, thus the very best way to see them is by sticking to the marked paths and also having with you a guide who's familiar with the terrain plus is able to protect you from an angry animal if the situation needs it.

The diversity of wildlife in Mexico is spectacular; though the industrialization, urbanization as well as pollution took their toll. Numerous land and sea areas in Mexico at the moment are preserved to sustain and take care of the species which inhabit this magical country, consequently generations to come can enjoy the same wonderful environment we are able to see in these days.

Yucatan - A Fantastic Location for Bird Watching in Mexico

You don't have to be able to tell crane from heron. In Mexico, birding is available for everybody given that they know what a bird is. Taking in the sight of hundreds upon hundreds of remarkably pink feathered flamingoes, while they fly in flocks over Celestun's marhy lagoons, where they will roost right until sunset, will most definitely make you breathless.

You can find several hundreds of bird species-546, to be exact-to see as they migrate to the wetlands, to Yucatan jungles, during wintertime. For certain, the Sian Ka'an reserve houses roughly 1 million migratory birds. Eleven of which are species you are never going to see in any other place. Which would include the Yucatan parrot, all in its bright red feathered glory, the Yucatan nightjar, and the Yucatan wren.

Several of Yucatan's awesome bird watching destinations:

Rio Lagartos

Situated north, up on Yucatan's Caribbean coast, is the Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve-home to the most enormous colonies of Mexico's pink flamingoes. The reserve spreads 140 miles along Celestun Refuge, to the northeast, whereby vacationers stare at over 40,000 pink flamingoes. During the winter months, the mainland feeding as well as breeding grounds of two sister sites, Rio Lagartos and Celestun, holds approximately 90 % of the entire world's population of pink flamingoes And in case you are lucky, you may spot a wandering crocodile, as well.

Celestun

45 minutes away from Merida, Rio Lagartos' sister site, Celestun, is additionally a great place to watch pink flamingoes prancing about their natural habitat. You'll likely see the most numbers of them around March all the way to August. Besides flamingoes, look out for rare herons and snowy egrets.

The Sian Ka'an Biosphere

Near Playa del Carmen and Tulum, you'll find the Sian Ka'an Biosphere, a place 1.3 million acres wide overflowing of forest wildlife as well as birds. In most places in Mexico, the Sian Ka'an is potentially the top location where you can see well over 1,200 species of animals in the wilderness. The place is additionally an icon of the Quintana Roo environmental movement, built to be able to safeguard all bird species in Mexico. Cenotes, mangrove swamps, lagoons, reefs and tropical forests sweep over the lands, making it a premium bird watching location in Mexico.

Isla Contoy

The Isla Contoy, a little island off some distance from Isla Mujeres, is just one of Mexico's national parks created exclusively into bird sanctuaries. However some might think it's a little challenging to get in, seeing that only 200 visitors allowed throughout the day, this one is an imperative destination.

Aside from the wildlife, there are actually roughly one hundred avian species residing over the wetlands, low jungles and also lagoons. Most of them are marine birds just like the frigate, the brown pelican, the double-crested cormorant and you never know what else.

Points to remember:

Hang a pair of binoculars over your neck and take lots of insect repellents, so you can appreciate all the sights whilst not having to swat at mosquitoes at each and every a few minutes when in the marshy wetlands.

Mexico Adventure Travel - Playa del Carmen Tours

When planning a trip to Mexico, probably the greatest destinations you can possibly go for is Playa del Carmen. This, situated on the Riviera Maya, has much to offer tourists - great food, vibrant night life, spas, water sports, beaches, guided tours to see ruins, biosphere reserves and many more.

You can join a guided tour either when you arrive at this charming place, or have it already integrated in your travel package. We have organized a list of the various tour choices that Playa del Carmen, Mexico offers:

Tours from Playa del Carmen

Mayan Ruins Tours

There are numerous sites with Mayan ruins nearby Playa del Carmen, and if you wish to visit more faraway sites you can ask the travel guide to arrange it on your behalf. Based on the time you've got and your fitness, you can either decide to go to more easily accessible sites or take an adventure tour in the jungle.

Most of the jungle tours are not ideal for families with small kids, and so ensure you ask ahead of time if perhaps there is a lot of walking engaged. The local travel agent can present you with information regarding how far from Playa del Carmen the ruins are, and whether you can get there through bus, car or on foot following one of the numerous trails.

Whale Shark Tours

During the summer time amongst the major attractions in Mexico are the whale sharks, who follow the migration of their principal source of food - the plankton. From July to September it is possible to join one of our tours and swim with these giants of the underwater world. The number of available places are restricted, therefore book your trip early on.

Cozumel Island Tour

Cozumel is an extremely well known destination for vacation goers who want to combine in one tour everything the island provides - great pristine beaches, coral reef snorkeling, eco-parks with species from the plant life and animals that cannot be seen elsewhere in the world, saltwater crocodiles and a lot more. There are actually regular boats to transport the tourists from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel, and the trip takes less than one hour.

Floating Safari Tour

When you are traveling to Mexico, among the most unusual adventures you can experience is the floating safari tour. Typically, your guide will take you to more secluded areas where you can see the diversity of animals, and observe animals that are normally difficult to see in the more populated areas. Make sure you have suitable apparel plus shoes, and also an insect net to protect your face, as the rivers are home to numerous species of flies, mosquitoes as well as other not-so-pleasant insects.

Birding

In case you are a birder, you will find many natural reserves near Playa del Carmen where you could head to watch birds. Take your best gear, because there are over 350 species of birds which inhabit this area and also the biosphere reserves.

Scuba Diving

Many men and women journey to Mexico because of the exceptional places for deep-sea diving. There are organized underwater tours, that enables you to enjoy your hobby and see a number of marine life species in their natural habitat.

More Mexico Tours

You can find many more guided tours available at Playa del Carmen on the Riviera Maya, so be sure you ask all your options when booking your trip. Doing this, you will be aware what related equipment to take with you, and how to best split your time so that you get to see and also experience as much as possible on your escape to Mexico.

Belize Adventure Tours - The Supreme Holiday Escape

Belize is one small country having a population of approximately 300,000. It was regarded as British Honduras while in colonial times, however at present it is an independent country with a population originating largely from Mayan culture with blend of descendants of the colonial immigrants from Africa, England and Scotland.

This small spot on the world map is the ideal location for eco-tourism, simply because of the unique natural splendor of the environment and also the way the population protects it. Several men and women come here every year on adventure tours. In case you enjoy investing your time in natural surroundings, Belize has a lot to offer:

Birding

Belize is a top-notch place to go for bird watchers from all parts of the world. Numerous local birds are very rare and your opportunity of seeing them elsewhere is incredibly low. Throughout the winter time, a large number of North American birds travel to Belize looking for food and a place to devote the season just before flying back north.

The rainforest canopy of Belize is just about the most famous destinations for birding, and organized tours in quest of local and rare birds are pretty desired by vacation goers.

Butterflies are one other top attraction in this small country. You will find tons of species with rich diversity in sizes and colors, as well as a couple of butterfly farms.

Diving

Belize is the most suitable location for diving enthusiasts. Just off the coast you can find lots of islands, generally known as cays, which offer protection to divers from the open waters of the ocean and create a wonderful environment for undisturbed diving and snorkeling. Many of the most famous sites are Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, as well as the nearby coral atolls.

The crystal clear waters are dwelling to many marine life species, and the superb coral formations are the dwelling place of quite a few exotic and also scarce fishes. Joining one of several organized marine adventure tours allows you to experience a lot more than when you try to dive or snorkel all by yourself, mainly because the guides knows exactly where the very best places are, and will take you there.

Mayan Ruins

Many vacationers are curious about seeing Mayan ruins when on a journey to Central America. The Mayan culture and civilization is well known around the world for its fascinating stone temples, the Mayan calendar and understanding of astronomy as well as construction work.

In Belize many Mayan ruins are actually meticulously restored by the government, to inform the vacationer the history of the Maya and their civilization. Visiting the Mayan ruins is a distinctive adventure in Belize. You may either rent a car and drive by yourself, or join a prepared adventure tour. The 2nd is maybe the much better option, as all accommodations will be set up and everything will be taken care of.

Belize is a stop which is included in most Caribbean cruises starting from the US. However, you won't have enough time to see a lot when you go to the location for just a couple of hours or even a day. When you desire to see more of what Belize provides, we advise that you stay for at least a week, however preferably longer.

Although the local population lives really close to the way they lived generations ago, there are lots of expensive resorts specifically created for tourists who need to invest their time freely in this lush tropical environment.

The food in these resort hotels and everywhere else in Belize is generally great tasting, and made with fresh ingredients produced on eco-friendly farms.

Whether you visit Belize for a beach vacation or an adventure travel, this small country is likely to fulfill all your desires, and you'll have a fun time.

Bird Watching Basics - What Devices You Will Need If You Want To Be A Birder

Birding is really popular all over the world. This is no great surprise, merely because in the busy and upsetting lives many people lead there is a need to be near to nature and observe animals in their natural habitat, which plus satisfying a need for peace and quiet, also makes people feel good. The interest in birding is growing day after day, as more and more folks decide to take it up and discover what nature can give. See Bird Watching Tours here.

This phenomenal hobby has a great deal to offer, although to be a better birder and obtain more out of this experience, there are several birding basics you should know: read more about bird watching here.

You do not need numerous gear, but some items are nearly essential. These sort of items are field glasses, a field guide, and an ideal set of clothing and shoes which often blend in with the colors of the natural surroundings you are in.

Binoculars

Whenever selecting your field glasses, you ought to have in mind the truth that essentially the most hard part for almost all birders is merely being able to see the birds, specifically if you are a beginner. A fantastic set of field glasses with a wide field of view will allow you to effortlessly locate birds, along with follow their movements.

Your binoculars also need to supply bright enough images, as that is important for distinguishing subtle features, color variations in addition to small details, particularly when there is not a sufficient amount of sunlight and the surroundings are providing you with only limited dim light.

In cases where you happen to be wearing glasses, request binoculars which have a long enough "eye relief". This is an important feature, as an limitless view is one of the significant elements to consider when you will be making use of an instrument for hours.

Ideally, you ought to avoid buying pocket-size binoculars. Although the weight and the size of pocket-size binoculars can be tempting for a lot of people, the reality is that they are poor in quality to the view and attributes of a lot of full-size binoculars.

Field guide

You will find quite a few birding guides accessible to beginners who need some help in which place to go and what to try to find, if they prefer to spot a certain bird species. It's a great concept to have one of these, at least at the beginning while you are still figuring out the bird watching basics, especially if perhaps you're interested in finding migratory or rare birds.

Such guides often have aerial maps and also routes that the migrating birds take, and also having the times marked for when during the year these birds could be noticed. For rare species, birding guides give detailed information as well as maps of the habitats where the birds you're searching for have ideal population density and and so the ideal chance of viewing it.

Clothing

Whenever you happen to be planning to take a trip into the countryside to see birds, you ought to obtain a good pair of shoes and clothing that blend with the surroundings. It is necessary not to wear clothes made of polyester that will make a lot of noise when you move, mainly because chances are you will terrify the birds when getting close to them. If you're planning to take a visit to an area of marshland, swamps and various other wetlands, you will also need an insect net for your face, as such areas are sometimes plagued with mosquitoes, flies and other insects.

Personal skills

You don't need a number of personal skills, yet you should be able to demonstrate determination, as birds are naturally shy, and perhaps it will take an hour or even longer before you are able to see and also observe the species of bird you are after.

Whenever you adhere to the birding basics referred to above, you will be on your way to becoming the best birders and will be able to have numerous relaxing and fulfilling hours in the countryside, blending with the surroundings and watching birds within their natural habitat.

Birding In Sian Ka'an

Extending almost 1.5 million acres, the Sian Ka'an reserve is just about the largest safeguarded natural avian habitats in the Yucatan Peninsula. As a Unesco World Heritage protected site, the place is an incredibly maintained ecological wonder with breathtaking surroundings. It teems with avian wildlife and also other animals, and is an awesome place to visit and enjoy nature. The reserve furthermore houses numerous types of tropical birds, that makes it an ideal bird watching destination.

Sian Ka'an Tours might be set up simply when you are in the Yucatan. Nestled near widely recognized places such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen as well as Tulum, it is an excellent thing to see. Along with several beautiful birding spots in the reserve, you'll find vast ecosystems, wildlife and reptilian species to sidetrack you from simple bird watching. You will absolutely be captivated with the incredible historic sites of the Mayan people, just as much as you'll enjoy watching a large number of migratory and tropical birds. See Bird Watching Tours here.

Sian Ka'an Reserve

This touring destination has lots of things to offer. Among them are numerous tropical bird species just like the Frigate, White Ibis, Roseate Spoonbill, Osprey, Boat-billed Heron, Tri-colored Heron and many more. Its freshwater inland canals were once used by the Maya people for buying and selling roughly 1200 years ago. These inland canals hold the quite possibly most varied flora and fauna you will ever discover in the entire Yucatan Peninsula. The plentiful ecosystem in the Sian Ka'an Reserve, for that reason, has turned into a natural nesting place for tropical birds of all types.

Within the Sian Ka'an Reserve is a remote mangrove place named the bird island, where plenty of these sultry avian creatures stay. In addition to that, you will notice the seabirds fly the distant horizon when you watch the setting sun.

Sian Ka'an Tours

A full tour of the Sian Ka'an Reserve begins with a few orientations and even discussions regarding the reserve's targets. Herein, the complexities of nature inside the reserve are discussed to the visitors in a persuasive as well as fascinating manner. The guides discuss the flora, fauna, ecosystem and mainly the birds discovered in the reserve. They provide an acute overview of things to anticipate on the tour, which could get you all nervous as well as expectant.

Primarily on your to-do list is getting on a six-seater ponga boat, as the captain or guide tells you with regards to the surrounding lagoon and what sort of birds nest in such an ecosystem. As the tour moves south, traveling along the coastal peninsula, the boarding ride stops at Boca Paila lagoon. From that point, the tour travel even farther inland, with an 11 kilometer narrow freshwater canal. Anticipate to see tropical birds all about the mangrove wetlands. Apart from birds, the sights also provide mangroves of different colors, orchids, termite mounds, bromeliads, fishes along with reptilian wildlife.

The tour advances towards the south until you get to the "bird island" in the lagoon of San Miguel, at which you will see numerous tropical birds roosting from dawn to dusk. As tour pushes forward, you will definitely see several Night Herons, Roseate Spoonbills, Tri-Colored Herons, Frigates, Boat Billed, White Ibis, Green Herons, Little Blue Herons, Egrets as well as Pelicans.

The Mayan Calendar and Astrology

The ancient Maya civilization flourished in Mesoamerica, a region now split up into Central America as well as Mexico, about two thousand years after comparable high civilizations rose in Asia and Europe. As with any other civilizations of the yesteryear, the Maya had advanced astrology since the beginning, which went on to progress over ages. Check out mayan pyramids here.

The Ancient Maya had no tremendous amount of outside influence, but still its folks were able to prosper and achieve the heights of its civilization. Right until five hundred years ago, during the Spanish came and the Aztec reigned as being the prevalent empire, the Mayan calendar was one of the most recognized astrological traditions held in Mesoamerica.

Mayan Astrology

The knowledge of time is central to the Mayan civilization, and thus, its people held on to astrology as a symbolic tradition. More than just being a symbol, the Mayan calendar made way for the folks to have a significantly better grasp of time as well as space. In Mesopotamian astrology, time and space were held in evenly high regard, but both of them are viewed as spatial. The combination of time and space was what the Greeks used to evaluate distances between planets, the meridian and the horizon. In Mesoamerica, nevertheless, the Mayan people evaluated time as a sign, whereby the basic unit is one day. They measured the day by one full rotation of earth, and utilized it as a basis of yet several other signs in the Mayan astrology. The image on the right presents the sky observatory in Chichen Itza

Twenty-day Signs

If today's Western seven-day calendar grouped days in weeks, the Mayan people counted their days in repetitive sets of twenty. This is what both the Maya and Aztec called the 20-day signs. Just like our calendars at this time, the Mesoamerican people also provided symbolic representations for each day. Readers of astrology will tell you that the day you were born holds the key to understanding your personality. In much the same way, the Mayan calendar talks the type of character a person will have based on the day she or he was born. It's just like putting a stamp on a person. The difference is that Mesoamericans adhered to their belief with more veneration as compared to modern astrologers do.

260-day Astrological Calendar

The Mayan calendar fuses the twenty-day signs to generate a thirteen cycle, referred to as tzolkin. The tzolkin is a sacred 260-day astrological calendar that is followed not merely by the Mayan, but the rest of the Mesoamerican civilizations.

For as long as 2000 years, Mesoamerican astrologers devoted themselves to monitoring each 260-day cycle. The tracking of every day was made consistent throughout Mesoamerica; if it was the very first of twenty days in Tenochtitlan, the main city city of Aztec, then it was also the very first of twenty days in isolated territories of Maya. That permitted trade plus economy, and politics and government to prosper more fruitfully.

Ancient Mayan astrology helped all civilizations in Mesoamerica get to the pinnacle of greatness. Even after Maya's downfall five hundred years back, Mesoamerica held securely to the custom and handed down the fantastic history of the Mayan people.