Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, eco-tourism and activities in nature that encourage social distancing have become more popular as travelers and local explorers seek to disconnect from every-day stress and get lost in nature.
As a result, Birding San Pancho and the Bird Observatory of San Pancho A.C. developed a free program in Riviera Nayarit, “Birds and Health in Banderas Bay 2021,” to improve participants health and wellbeing through birdwatching.
The program uses bird watching as a complementary activity to improve people’s overall health and economy in vulnerable sectors, during and after the Covid-19 pandemic. The goal is for participants to reduce anxiety and stress by performing a physical-cognitive and learning activation that they can continue for life. Participation is free of charge for the people and organizations that benefit from the program, which in this case are: Volcanes Education Project, Biblioteca Los Mangos Centro Cultural, Estero El Salado, and Conservación de Especies Maravillosas (Cembab).
“Birdwatching plays a huge promotional role for Riviera Nayarit as we are home to some of the best birding hotspots in Mexico,” said Marc Murphy, managing director of the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau.
“On this occasion, the benefit goes beyond its tourist appeal as an activity to improve the overall health and finances of the people who benefit from the program.”
Riviera Nayarit boasts up to seven different types of ecosystems, it’s incredible natural estuaries and coastal mangrove inlets are home to more than 250 endemic species and migratory birds from North America. Avid birdwatching enthusiasts can visit Sayulita and San Blas to collaborate with many professionals, while beginners can join a tour.
The best season to observe migratory birds is from October to March, although there are guided tours all year round by specialized tour operators, such as Birding San Pancho. Some noteworthy birdwatching locations in Riviera Nayarit, home to unique bird species including magpies, herons, frigates, swallows, and endangered brown and blue-footed boobies are Zoquipan, Singayta, Tecuitata in San Blas. Other incredible locations include Del Coral Island, La Vejiga Lagoon, Isabel island, Chacala, and more.
For more information on the program “Birds and Health in Banderas Bay 2021” visit http://www.birdingsanpancho.net/.
Photo Credit: Riviera Nayarit
