Returning for the Second Year in Boca de Tomatlán
This Saturday, November 30, starting at 11 a.m., the Second Green Macaw Festival will take place, offering an opportunity to raise awareness and learn about this beautiful and iconic bird.
The Green Macaw (Ara militaris), also known as the Military Macaw, is one of the emblematic birds found in the surroundings of Puerto Vallarta and Tomatlán. Recognized for its predominantly green plumage, it features blue tones on its wings and a characteristic red forehead.
This species is native to mountainous regions and tropical forests from Mexico to northern South America. In Mexico, it can be found in states like Jalisco, Nayarit, and Oaxaca. Locally, it inhabits areas such as the Sierra de Vallejo and low deciduous forests, which provide it with food and nesting sites.
Characteristics
Size: Measures between 70 and 80 cm in length.
Appearance: Mainly green, with blue details on the wings, a red forehead, and yellowish tones under the wings. Its face is white with black lines formed by small feathers.
Diet: Frugivorous, feeding mainly on fruits, seeds, nuts, and buds.
Behavior: Known for its loud calls, used to communicate within its group. It nests in tree cavities or cliffs, laying 1 to 3 eggs per reproductive cycle.
Green Macaws play a vital role in seed dispersal, contributing to the maintenance and regeneration of local ecosystems.
Conservation Status
Unfortunately, the Green Macaw faces significant threats:
Habitat Loss: Deforestation for agriculture and livestock activities.
Illegal Capture: Poaching for the pet trade.
The species is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In Mexico, it is protected under the NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010 regulation.
Conservation Efforts
Protection Programs: Local and international initiatives aim to protect habitats and curb illegal capture.
Monitoring: Environmental and academic groups, such as those from ITESO (Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Occidente), have conducted population studies in Jalisco.
Community Awareness: In Puerto Vallarta and Tomatlán, some communities have developed ecotourism projects to educate residents and visitors about preserving this species.
The forests and jungles near Tomatlán and the Sierra Madre Occidental are ideal places to spot Green Macaws. It is recommended to do so with certified guides to minimize environmental impact.
Festival Highlights
The Second Green Macaw Festival will feature a variety of activities for children and adults, including:
Drawing and craft tables.
A photo exhibition showcasing the region’s flora and fauna.
Storytelling sessions.
Raffles.
Informative science tables about environmental projects in the Puerto Vallarta region.
Many more surprises!
The festival will take place at the Boca de Tomatlán Malecón from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The local NGO Unidos por las Guacamayas invites everyone to join in this celebration of nature and conservation.
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