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This urban wetland is located just off The Malecon and runs approximately all the way from the Aquarium to Valentinos. It is truly a diamond in the rough. People in their cars or on buses travel by this wetland daily on their weekly sojourns to Sam’s Club, Mega etc. and likely marvel at the amount of diverse birdlife (both resident and migratory) contained within the city limits of Mazatlan. Here you can see the Roseate Spoonbill, White Ibis, Black bellied Whistling Duck, Great blue heron, Great white egret, Cattle egret and Snowy egret and many other species of birds can be seen at this site. All urban and suburban areas, by their very nature, are characterized by the presence of humans and major alterations to the natural environment. Human factors affect bird populations in a variety of ways. The loss of natural habitat inevitably leads to the elimination of certain species of birds and many of the birds cannot live there year round because of pollution and also because they are constantly disturbed. For many of the species that can be seen at this urban lagoon, the change in their habits is minimal; they still can come and go to find their prey. The migratory and resident birds use this urban wetland as a stop over site, where they can find shelter, food or simply rest. What we need to ask ourselves is if what the birds are eating is toxic or not.
It’s urgent to recover this jewel
Due to the location of this lagoon it is basically accessible to all and should be enjoyed by all. There should be a proper walking trail maintained so people can walk around the area and there also needs to be information posted as to the flora and fauna that live in and around the area (mammals, birds, insects, and amphibians etc.).
With this effort we would have another attraction to enhance our city and it easily lies within our ability. Bird watchers from all over the world would enjoy the lagoon as well as local people who want to admire nature and all this just a few minutes away from home. Many countries incorporate these areas not only as walking areas but also educational spots as well. I have witnessed these urban parks in many countries such as Belgium, Holland, Canada and the United States. One complaint people have in Mazatlan is the lack of accessible park and green spaces in comparison to other Mexican cities. This can be resolved. The wood stork is a good example of a bird that is threatened in Mexico. This majestic bird has an enormous wingspan and nests at the Teacapan estuarine system, at an Island called Bird Island. In order to find food these birds have to make local migrations and one of the wetlands that is used year after year is the Camaron lagoon. So it would be very desirable for bird watchers to be able to see such a bird with available walking areas, rest/picnic areas and perhaps an observation tower or two could be built where bird behavior can be studied or photographed. It is a pity that an area such as this is not given the attention it deserves and that construction is allowed to infringe on these important wetlands.
When you have a chance, visit this site, take your binoculars and your bird book. There you can witness the behavior of many spectacular birds, and you may also want to make a list of the species of birds that you saw during your visit. Recommended Book: A guide to the Birds of Mexico Steve N. G. Howell and Sophie Webb. |
