In case you are searching for a good adventure then you need to be in the Yucatan. The Yucatan Peninsula is packed with a number of extraordinary locations and sights to see, that include ancient stone ruins of the Mayans, rich and diverse wildlife in the vast tropical jungles plus tropical and migratory bird species.
Because of the abundant ecosystem in the entire peninsula the wildlife in Yucatan is highly varied. In places the natural habitats of birds and animals are preserved very well in form of national parks, sanctuaries, biosphere and reserves. In Yucatan you'll see a myriad of appealing animals from lovely birds to fearsome-looking crocodiles.
Wildlife And Geography Of The Yucatan
The Yucatan Peninsula rests on top of a small, constantly-moving underwater limestone platform. The peninsula itself is steadily moving upwards as well as rising above sea level. The truth is, Merida which is the northernmost tip of the peninsula, was immersed right up until it appeared a million years ago. Tikal and its parts were also used to be underwater. Considering that the inland's of northern Yucatan are usually flat and low, there aren't any rivers or streams.
Nature is in abundance and the wildlife is diverse i the inner part of the peninsula. You will find more than 125 species of mammals, 180 species of reptiles. 546 bird species grouped in 74 families, as well as numerous more insects, fishes and amphibians.
You can find species of mammals in the peninsula, for example, the Yucatan Squirrel, are half-endemic. Felines including the Jaguar, Puma, and Margay hunt the deeper jungles and hunt in their vast territories. For tourists visiting the inlands of Yucatan consider their elusive beauty as a special attraction. Chances are you'll also bump into several other mammals such as the Agouti, Coatimundi, Oposum..
Tropical Bird Species
The Yucatan is a home to 546 bird species which are divided into 74 different families. Of these kinds of species, 18 are found only in the Yucatan jungles. A result of the teeming bird wildlife, bird watching is an increasingly popular activity in the peninsula and could be undertaken practically anywhere. Flock of birds can always be seen in mangrove lagoons, swamps, deep in the jungles, shorelines and in the stone cities of the ancient Mayan ruins. Chichen and Coba are among the most well known birding destinations. The encompassing parts of Cancun are likewise excellent bird watching spot.
You will see some common birds in the area such as Turquoise-browed Motmot, Groove-billed Ani, Golden-fronted Woodpecker, Social Flycatcher and Ruddy Ground-Dove, White-winged Dove. Vimeo, Thrasher and Cozumel Emerald are the endemic species found in the Yucatan. The Thrasher, nonetheless, happens to be last seen in 2006 right after a tough hurricane struck the peninsula. Amongst other more widely encountered species are the Ocellated Turkey, Yucatan Nightjar, Black Catbird, Rose-throated Tanager, Orange Oriole, and Yellow-lored or Yucatan Parrot.
Species Of Crocodiles
There are several crocodile parks in the Yucatan, in which 2 of the most well-known attractions are the American crocodile and the Morelet's crocodile. Both of them are freshwater crocodilian species that may be found practically any place in the peninsula.
Consider Touring The Yucatan
Are you looking for a good adventure in the wilderness? Do you want to visit ancient Mayan ruins? Or simply embark on birding? If that is the case consider touring the Yucatan.
Linda Patterson is a birding enthusiast from the USA. She has advised birders from all over the world showing the most amazing birds watching spots. The original article can be found at The Best Spots for Birding in the Yucatan.
