Actions to try to prevent it have already been taken
The Birds in Protected Natural Areas (ANP) bulletin highlights various conservation projects across the Baja California Peninsula, emphasizing the importance of these regions as refuges for endangered endemic and migratory bird species. Baja California Sur is recognized as one of the most biodiverse states in Mexico when it comes to avian life.
The bulletin documents notable bird species found in protected areas, including:
- California Condor: The largest flying bird in North America, with a wingspan of up to nine feet. It is classified as endangered and can be found in the Sierra de San Pedro Mártir National Park in Baja California.
- Reddish Egret: Also endangered, this species is one of the 12 heron species commonly seen in the El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve and the Ojo de LiebreLagoon.
- Socorro Parakeet: Inhabiting Revillagigedo National Park, its population was estimated at around 300 individuals in 2020 due to conservation efforts.
- Baja California Sapphire: An endemic hummingbird living in the Sierra de La Laguna Biosphere Reserve, it was the focus of the First Hummingbird Festival in November 2024.
- Peninsular Masked Warbler: An endangered species confined to the Baja oases, currently under conservation efforts in the San José Estuary.
- California Scrub-Jay: Frequently documented during birdwatching events at Bahía de Loreto, Nopoló, and Loreto II National Parks.
- Snowy Sandpiper: Observed during coastal wetland monitoring initiatives.
- Beautiful-Faced Magpie: An invasive species posing an increasing threat to native birds in the Sierra La Laguna Biosphere Reserve.
The National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP) and the University of Baja California Sur (UABCS) are actively documenting both the challenges and successes in protecting endemic and migratory species in these ecosystems. This newsletter not only raises awareness about these vulnerable birds but also showcases the collaborative efforts of organizations and civil society in their conservation.
A recent edition highlights the work of Mujeres con Alas, an initiative of 11 women who conducted 60 surveys, recording 1,410 shorebirds and seabirds across 18 species. Their work underscores the importance of partnerships between academics and the community in conserving critical species like the Xantus Sapphire and the California Condor.
Emer García, a research professor at UABCS in Los Cabos, shared insights into conservation efforts in the region. He explained that newsletter topics are chosen based on requests from the directors of protected areas, focusing on species prioritized for conservation, often referred to as “flagship species.”
García expressed enthusiasm for the growing interest in bird conservation and education among local communities. Events such as the Hummingbird Festival in San Dionisio and the Christmas Bird Counts in San Antonio de la Sierra play a crucial role in engaging the public. The Hummingbird Festival, dedicated to the endemic Xantus Sapphire, featured contributions from experts like Dr. SarahíPérez, while the latest Christmas Bird Count, organized by Audubon International, recorded 67 species and 736 individual birds.
The San José del Cabo Estuary exemplifies the challenges faced by national parks. This area has become a collaborative space where various stakeholders, including the public, contribute to the conservation of vital natural habitats. Community-driven initiatives highlight the essential role of local participation in achieving conservation success.
Environmental conservation faces significant challenges, particularly from climate change-related wildfires. To effectively restore ecosystems, collaboration is necessary among academia, government, civil organizations, and the private sector, García emphasized.
From the Sierra de San Pedro Mártir National Park to the Sierra La Laguna Biosphere Reserve, CONANP continues documenting efforts to protect ten bird species. These areas are crucial for the survival of the Peninsular Masked Warbler, one of the most endangered birds in the region. However, repeated wildfires in the past year have severely threatened these delicate ecosystems, making ecological restoration and cross-sector cooperation even more urgent.
Engagement with protected natural areas is essential. These places are part of a shared heritage, and visitors are encouraged to explore nearby reserves, learn about local bird species, and seek expert recommendations.
This informative publication serves to document and promote the conservation of bird life across the Baja California Peninsula, which is home to a diverse range of species due to its unique ecosystems.