#rose-throated becard

[tinylongwing]

TRICK OR TREAT???? I love the bird pictures <3

I'm glad you enjoy them!

I hope you especially enjoy this female Rose-throated Becard, a large tropical flycatcher banded in Nicaragua! I just love that silly tall crest.

[lavender-nightjar]

Rose-throated becards

[whatsthebird]

What's the Bird?

Location: Florida

Date: December

We ask that discussion under questions be limited to how you came to your conclusion, not what your conclusion was.

Happy Birding!

Keep the game alive! Submit a bird HERE

Bird-111 graciously submitted by @westoni

[thxnews]

Things to do in Cancún: Beyond the Beaches

Mexico's Top Holiday Location

Cancún is a Mexican city located on the northeast coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. It is an important tourist destination in Mexico and the seat of the municipality of Benito Juárez. Cancún is justly famous for its stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush vegetation. There is much more to Cancún than its beaches. In this blog we explore various things to do in Cancun beyond the beaches.  

Beautiful Cancun Beach. Photograph by David Vives. Unsplash,  

Visitor Favorites in Cancun

Some of the most popular off-beach tourist attractions: - Visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza. - Go snorkeling or scuba diving in the Cancun Underwater Museum. - Experience the local culture by participating in a traditional temazcal ceremony. - Get up close and personal with dolphins at the Interactive Aquarium Cancun. - Take a glass bottom boat tour of the Cancun reef. - Shop for souvenirs at one of Cancun's many markets, such as Mercado 28 or Plaza La Isla. 9.  

The History of Cancun

Cancun was originally settled by the Maya people and was known as Ek Lu'um, meaning "place of the well." The city was later renamed Cancun by the Spanish conquistadors. The name “Cancun” is derived from the Maya word for “nest of snakes”. Cancun is also home to several ancient Maya ruins, including the El Rey archaeological site which features many well-preserved stucco reliefs.  

Cancun is a Nature Lover's Paradise

Located on the Yucatán Peninsula, Cancun is home to some of the most stunning natural scenery in all of Mexico. The area is renowned for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and lush jungle landscapes. In addition, Cancun is home to a variety of unique wildlife, including parrots, iguanas, and sea turtles. Nature lovers will also enjoy exploring the nearby Mayan ruins, which are a testament to the region's rich cultural history.  

Roseate Spoonbill wading in the shallows. Unsplash.   

Cancun Rare birds

Cancun is home to many rare and beautiful birds. More than 500 species of birds have been recorded in the area, including several that are found nowhere else in the world. The Cancun region is particularly rich in bird life due to its diverse habitats, which include mangrove forests, sandy beaches, and wetland marshes. Among the most notable species that can be seen in Cancun are the roseate spoonbill, white-cheeked pintail, rose-throated becard, black-necked stilt, rainbow lorikeet, and Zapata wren. These and other rare birds make Cancun a paradise for birdwatchers from all over the world.  

Cancun jungle with light breaking through.  Unsplash.  

A Perfect Place to Relax and Unwind

Cancun Mexico is renowned for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and lush vegetation. The Cancun region is home to many luxury resorts, which offer a wide variety of activities and amenities. Whether you're looking to spend your days lounging by the pool, exploring the Mayan ruins, or dancing the night away at one of Cancun's famed nightclubs, there's something for everyone in Cancun. With its convenient location just a short flight from the United States, Cancun is the perfect destination for a quick getaway or a longer vacation. So if you're looking for a place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Cancun is a perfect choice.  

Nightlife in Cancun

Cancun is home to some of the best nightclubs in Mexico. Whether you're looking for a place to dance the night away or simply enjoy a few drinks with friends, Cancun has plenty of options to choose from. The most popular nightclubs include Coco Bongo, LaSanta, LaBarre, and Dady’o. These clubs feature world-class DJs, live performances, and a lively atmosphere that is sure to please even the most discerning clubgoer. If you're looking for something a little more low-key, check out Chapultepec Cerveceria, which offers a wide selection of craft beers and an outdoor patio perfect for people watching. No matter what your style, Cancun has a nightclub that's sure to fit your needs.  

Cancun Sailing Catamarans

Cancun sailing catamarans are one of the best ways to see the sights and enjoy the water while in Cancun, Mexico. Catamarans are stable and spacious, making them ideal for groups or families. They also have large sails that make for a smooth and relaxing ride. Cancun sailing catamarans typically depart from the marina in the morning and return in the afternoon. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy the sun and the scenery. Cancun sailing catamarans typically include a captain and crew, so you can sit back and relax while they take care of everything. If you're looking for an unforgettable experience in Cancun, sailing on a catamaran is a must-do.  

Catamarans Moored early morning. Unsplash.  

Best Places to Stay

Cancun is one of the top tourist destinations in Mexico, its well known for it's white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and numerous resorts. If you're planning a trip to Cancun, here are 4 of the best places to stay: 1. The Ritz-Carlton Cancun This luxury resort is located on Cancun's famous Hotel Zone strip. The Ritz-Carlton Cancun offers 5-star accommodations, including marble bathrooms, 24-hour room service, and private balconies with views of the Caribbean Sea. 2. J W Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa Also located on the Hotel Zone strip, the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa is another great option for luxury travelers. The resort offers an on-site spa, fitness center, and several restaurants serving international cuisine. 3. Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun This beachfront resort is located in Cancun's quieter Puerto Juarez neighborhood. The Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun features an infinity pool, a kids' club, and a variety of dining options. 4. Oasis Palm Beach For travelers looking for a more affordable option, the Oasis Palm Beach is a great choice. This all-inclusive resort is located on Cancun's north end and offers direct access to the beach. The Oasis Palm Beach also features an on-site water park, making it a great option for families.  

Marketplace on Cozumel Island, Cancun. Unsplash   

Budget-friendly Places to Stay

Cancun Mexico is a great place to visit if you are looking for budget-friendly places to stay. There are many hotels and resorts that offer great rates, and there are also several rental properties that can be found for reasonable prices. Additionally, the Cancun Hostel offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.   Best time of the year to visit Cancun The best time to visit Cancun is from December to April as this is when the weather is the warmest and the humidity is low. However, Cancun can be crowded during this time as it is the peak season. As this is also the busiest time of year, be sure to book your hotel and airline tickets well in advance. If you want to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit Cancun is from May to November. This is considered the off-season as the weather is hotter and more humid. However, there are fewer tourists during this time and you can find great deals on hotels and activities.  

In Conclusion

Cancun is a great place to visit whether you're looking for a place to relax or a place to party. There are many things to do in Cancún and most visitors start with the city and the beaches. If you're planning a trip to Cancun, be sure to add some of these activities to your itinerary.   Sources: THX News, The Nomadvisor & Cancun Sailing.   Read the full article

[quieteating]

New Post has been published on Quieteating

New Post has been published on https://is.gd/FqOCmI

Mexico - birds

Pygmy Owl – hello there

Buff-bellied Hummingbird looking into the tree

Social flycatcher

Buff-bellied Hummingbird leaving

Flycatcher

Yucatan woodpecker

Black vulture

Flycatcher

Buff-bellied Hummingbird looking longingly into the distance

Canivet’s emerald

Great kiskadee

Yellow-faced grassquit

Buff-bellied Hummingbird looking longingly into the distance

Mot mot

Yucatan jay – a bad hair day

Olivaceous woodcreeper

Rose-throated becard

Buff-bellied Hummingbird looking longingly into the distance

Red cardinal – the angry bird

[birdstudies]

June 23, 2019 - Rose-throated Becard (Pachyramphus aglaiae)

These becards are found from parts of southeastern Arizona and Texas in the United States through western and eastern Mexico and Central America as far south as Panama. Usually foraging alone or in pairs, they feed on insects, small fruits, and seeds. Pairs build bulky globe or bell-shaped nests at the ends of branches with entrances near the bottom. While only the females incubate the eggs, both parents feed the chicks.

[ryandrawsbirds]

Rose-Throated Becard, Pachyramphus aglaiae. February 3, 2017.

[noaroy312]

Why Are Seagulls Protected Birds? (What You Need to Know)

Why Are Seagulls Protected

Seagulls are ordinary in the United States, yet they have authentic protections since they are momentary birds.

Why Are Seagulls Protected? Seagulls are protected birds under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. It's unlawful to hurt, kill, get, trade, sell, or transport them, even their nests or eggs in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Japan, or Russia. The inspiration driving this act is to safeguard birds from annihilation.

Section by part list

Seagulls Are Protected By The Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Inspiration driving the Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Birds Protected By The Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Disciplines for Violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Unique cases Allowed for Population Control Reasons

Are Seagulls Endangered?

The IUCN Red List

What Conservation Efforts Are Taken for Seagulls?

Sources

List of chapters

Seagulls Are Protected By The Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Reason for the Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Birds Protected By The Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Punishments for Violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Special cases Allowed for Population Control Reasons

Are Seagulls Endangered?

The IUCN Red List

What Conservation Efforts Are Taken for Seagulls?

Sources

Seagulls Are Protected By The Migratory Bird Treaty Act

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 is a worldwide arrangement between the United States, Canada, Mexico, Japan, and Russia.

It communicates that any stinging, getting, trading, selling, or transportation protected species is unlawful with the exception of whenever endorsed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The show was first passed between the United States and Canada, and thereafter it later loosened up to join Mexico, Japan, and Russia.

Are Seagulls Protected birds since they're nearby and temporary as demonstrated by the determinations of this settlement.

Motivation behind the Migratory Bird Treaty Act

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act means to arrange conservation attempts between countries for birds whose arrive at navigates various countries.

Together, sharing countries have saved enormous number of birds by guaranteeing their positive spots, wintering reaches, and everything in the center.

Getting a charge out of learning about Why Are Seagulls Protected? May you additionally prefer to learn about Difference Between Male and Female Robins?

Birds Protected By The Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Seagull Nests Protected species consolidate any transient birds neighborhood to the United States.

These fuse birds like the Akikiki, Apapane, Bushtit, Albatross (Black-browed, Black-footed, and others), Becard (Gray-collared and Rose-throated), Mallard, and Redhead.

Coming up next is a once-over of other Are All Gulls Protected birds:

Blackbird (Brewer's, Red-winged, and others)

Bluebird (Eastern, Mountain, and Western)

Booby (Blue-footed, Abbott's, and others)

Hitting (Blue, Gray, Indigo, and others)

Catbird (Black and Gray)

Cormorant (Brandt's, Double-topped, and others)

Crake (Corn, Paint-charged, and others)

Crow (American, Fish, Hawaiian, and others)

Dove (Common Ground, Inca, Mourning, and others)

Duck (American Black, Eastern Spot-charged, and others)

Peddle (Golden, Bald, White-followed)

Peddle (Peregrine, Prairie, and others)

Finch (House, Purple, and others)

Flycatcher (Dusky, Gray, and others)

Gnatcatcher (Black-covered, Blue-Gray, California, Black-followed)

Goldfinch (American, Lawrence's, Lesser)

Goose (Canada, Cackling, and others)

Gull (Belcher's, Gray-hooded, and others)

Sell (Broad-winged, Harris', and others)

Heron (Gray, Great Blue, and others)

Hummingbird (Bumblebee, Ruby-throated, and others)

Jay (Blue, Brown, Green, and others)

Kingfisher (Guam, Belted, and others)

Maniac (Arctic, Red-throated, and others)

Mockingbird (Bahama, Blue, and Northern)

Nightjar (Buff-collared, Gray, and others)

Nuthatch (Brown-headed, Pygmy, and others)

Oriole (Altamira, Audubon's, Baltimore, and others)

Owl (Barn, Barred, Boreal, and others)

Palila

Pigeon (Band-followed, Plain, and others)

Poorwill

Quail-Dove (Bridled, Key West, and Ruddy)

Raven (Chihuahuan and Common)

Robin (American, European, Rufous-upheld, and others)

Sandpiper (Baird's, Broad-charged, and others)

Scream Owl (Eastern, Puerto Rican, and others)

Seedeater

Sora

Stork

Swallow (Mangrove, Tree, and others)

Tanager (Flame-concealed, Scarlet, and others)

Titmouse (Black-crested, Bridled, and others)

Verdin

Vulture (Black and Turkey)

Warbler (Adelaide's, Bachman's, Bay-breasted)

Whip-poor-will (Eastern and Mexican)

Willet

Woodpecker (Red-headed, Red-bellied, and others)

Yellowthroat (Common and Gray-assigned)

Note that this once-over bars all protected species. For the full once-over, see Title 50 Part 10.13 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

Punishments for Violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Breaking the Migratory Bird Treaty Act is an administration offense that can achieve fines up to $15,000 and confinement up to a half year.

It is in like manner a wrongdoing to take a protected bird to sell it, with an additional a generally outrageous fine of $2,000 and up to one year of prison time.

Exemptions Allowed for Population Control Reasons

Right when birds compromise the prosperity and flourishing of human peoples, the U.S. government offers an exclusion for the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to allow for people control.

For example, the U.S. government has allowed seagulls to be killed at Puget Sound boat terminals on account of complaints of powerful birds and bird-dropping-related infections.

Sometimes, the focal government allows hunting of protected species to the extent that the general population is huge and sound with the eventual result of managing the decrease in numbers.

Inadvertent taking or killing protected species is similarly allowed now and again, though not without question from conservation affiliations.

Are Seagulls Endangered?

A couple of sorts of gulls are endangered, similar to the Black-charged Gull.

The Olrog's Gull and Lava Gull are considered unprotected. The Adouin's Gull and Ivory Gull are close undermined by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Other endangered birds recorded by the IUCN are:

Relict Gull: Vulnerable

Chinese Black-headed Gull: Vulnerable

Heermann's Gull: Near Threatened

White-looked toward Gull: Near Threatened

The IUCN Red List

The IUCN Red List was made by the International Union for Conservation of Nature in 1964 to follow the overall security status of animals, plants, and parasites.

The get-together gives out a conservation status to each specie considering its risk of disposal. Coming up next are the classes of conservation status:

Not Evaluated: species that isn't one of the 134,425 studied species

Data Deficient: species without good documentation of people prosperity

Least Concern: species that have been evaluated and don't get into a few different groupings

Near Threatened: species that are likely going to become compromised as soon as possible

Feeble: species at high risk of obliteration in nature

Endangered: species at exceptionally high risk of destruction in nature

Critically Endangered: species at incredibly high risk of destruction in nature

Ended in the Wild: species simply exist in subjugation

Ended: no living people from the species

What Conservation Efforts Are Taken for Seagulls?

Protection tries taken for seagulls fuse getting their good places and avoiding metropolitan headway near their settling grounds.

Since seagulls home and breed in shoreline areas, they have become dynamically sensitive.

Seagulls have similarly seen people climb on account of business fishing exercises.

Discards from fishing boats are an unprecedented food focal point for gulls, in spite of the way that, as of not long ago, they have not been intentionally used as a strategy for observing seagull peoples.

Moreover, gulls genuinely well when we recall biodegradable waste for landfills.

In any case, the unfriendly outcomes of recalling biodegradable resources for landfills have up until this point offset any protection benefits.

When in doubt, seagulls will undoubtedly be considered an interference of amicability than a creature bunches that needs protection.

Thusly, there are relatively few constant protection attempts highlighted guaranteeing these species.

Regardless, these species are a critical piece of our natural frameworks.

Sources

Research West: U.S. Government Allows Killing of Protected Seagulls

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Migratory Bird Treaty Act

IUCN Red List of Threatened Species

Kees sharing Why Are Seagulls Protected? with your loved ones

[mtindicators]

Rose throated Becard Bird Sound, Bird Song Bird Call, Bird Calling Chirp...

[atonement420]

Adam Reads ‘The Guide to Western Birds’

… let fowl fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven. Genesis 1:20

This book is bliss. It includes a bird’s topography— (who knew that fowl had eyebrows? superciliaries) a wrist, a rump, a nape. Once again I’m caught assuming human privilege, as if only our parts merit names. We are mere givers of names. Parts, another parable.

It tells me the right questions to ask, which No One ever told me. Size? Shape? Wing? Bill? Tail? How does it behave? Treeclimber? Swims? Wades? Pay its bills? Struts? Darts? Variations on the V-formation? Mating trill? Rump patches, wing bars, patterns. Status is rareness, and matters.

The drawings vivid, yet I could not tell between terns (Arctic, Forster’s, Common, Least, Aleutian)— a clue to my undiscerning nature. Larger pictures assigned the single-sexed— more room for androgyny in this small tome that fits in my hand, small as if to indicate how little I grasp, even having schooled

where I did. This must be the New Tree of Knowledge, ripe with detail: raven’s Roman-nose bill, whip-poor-will’s hyphens. Ringed turtledove lives in L.A. city parks. Family Mimidae are top-notch crooners. The rose-throated becard promises a thin, slurred whistle, seeoo— I’m told that’s how I sound when asleep.

I dream of Paradise: a Lazuli Bunting, a wisp of Black-Throated Green Warbler’s lisp: zoo zee zoo zee zoo (zoo lower, zee on the same pitch). Now, with few conifers near, I will make do, as I do                as we do with the crow, sparrow, starling and mockingbird that grace my eaves, their gifts of already fallen, still falling eucalyptus and bamboo.

Patty Seburn

[spideymoth]

As a birder this is literally what we do, my inbox and Facebook feed and group chats have all been flooded by top 10 lists and birding resolutions

Here’s my Top 10 list of birds for 2018:

1. ‘Ākohekohe, my rarest wild bird species

2. Maui ‘Alauahio

3. ‘Iiwi (there’s a pattern here)

4. Buff-collared Nightjar

5. Flame-colored Tanager

6. Black-capped Gnatcatcher nesting

7. California Gnatcatcher

8. Rose-throated Becard nesting

9. Arctic Loon in Neah Bay for year 2

10. Buff-breasted Sandpiper super close

New Years is a time to reflect on all the BIRDS we’ve seen this year, and to look forward to all the BIRDS we’ll see in the year to come

[lavender-nightjar]

Two rose-throated becards with nests in the area

[rantsandaves]

Arizona & Rufous-capped Warbler: Part Two

I arrived at a rest stop outside Green Valley, Arizona late on August 29th after birding the Salton Sea in California. I stretched my legs. It was still hot, but not nearly as bad as Los Angeles. Signs around the rest stop warned of "poisonous" animals like snakes and scorpions. A relief: if they were venomous, I may have been concerned. Good thing I was in no mood for a snack.  

The next morning, I woke up early and drove to one of my favorite birding places: Madera Canyon. The shrubs and grasses on the way up were still green from the end of monsoon season, a noticeable contrast from the pale yellow that colored the vegetation when I was last there in early March.

Almost as soon as I got down to Proctor Road, I was able to find the year's first Varied Bunting and a handful of Botteri's Sparrows. I spent the morning working my way up to the mountains. Up Old Baldy trail, I ran into a Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher. Their call is described as rubber-ducky-esque, and it is a fairly accurate description. 

The next day, I drove to nearby Box Canyon and managed to score a Five-Striped Sparrow after only an hour and a half of patient pacing back and forth. I met a couple of other birders who had tried two times previous and dipped on it. Third time's the charm!

I decided that it was maybe my lucky day too, so I drove down to Florida Canyon to see if I could find that Rufous-capped Warbler that I missed in March. (If you missed it, you can read about it here)  Instead of furiously running around Florida Canyon without service trying to figure out the right place to be from shoddily-remembered verbal directions, I got smart and downloaded a map from Tucson Audubon that told me exactly where to go this time. It's amazing what a little foresight can do. I realized that there was indeed another section that went the opposite way I had gone before. The trail led to an oak grove where the Rufous-capped Warbler seemed to be just waiting for me. The bird hopped around and sang for a bit and I stood in awe. Below is unfortunately the best picture I could get before the warbler decided the fat lady sang and it was time to close the curtains. Show's over, pal! 

I ended up spending a couple of nights near Madera, one on Proctor Road and another at Bog Springs Campground. I have some great night-birding stories that maybe are best told in person. (Buy me a beer and say code word 'night birding' for more details.) 

I visited some places that I (now very regretfully) missed back in March: Ramsey Canyon, Carr Canyon, Patagonia-Sonoita Preserve and Ash Canyon B&B. All were successful in terms of producing new birds for my year list and absolutely gorgeous places all around. I saw a female Blue-throated Hummingbird at Ramsey Canyon, which is operated and maintained by the Nature Conservancy and further up by the US Forest Service. I stayed the night at Carr Canyon to find the long-staying Tufted Flycatcher (code 5!) thanks to John Battiste and his crew. John then pointed me in the direction of Ash Canyon B&B to find a Lucifer's Hummingbird- a gorgeous creature that I was lucky to get an image of. 

I took a trip to Chiricahua National Monument just to see the sights. I managed to make a complete fool of myself and totally butchered the name "Chiricahua" to a Border Patrol officer. The look on his face as he tried to make coherent sense of what I had said is an image I will never forget. I spent sometime in the Chiricahua Mountains and managed to pick up a Mexican Chickadee and Montezuma Quail, as well as a thick layer of dust that I may never be able to clean out of the bed of my truck. 

I spent sometime bouncing between Tucson and Flagstaff for numerous birds. I got stuck in a hail storm and covered in mud while looking for Gray Vireo and Red-faced Warbler on Mount Lemmon outside Tucson (and dipped on both.) I got lucky enough to briefly catch the Common Crane that had been hanging out at Mormon Lake--terrible, almost heartbreaking looks from a maxed out scope, but a look nonetheless. I managed to get a Bendire's Thrasher fairly easily at Papago Park (only two attempts) while battling the common cold in 106 degree weather.  I visited Red Rock State Park one day and Montezuma Castle the next hoping for a residual Common Black Hawk and managed to find one hollerin' at nearby Montezuma Well!

On my way out of the state, I stopped to try to see at least one of the two Rose-throated Becard that had been hanging out at Tumacacori. I now deeply regret not going much sooner, as there was no reason other than pure absentmindedness. About two hours and twenty mosquito bites later, I left with no Becard, but still had plenty of beautiful memories of an amazing Arizona adventure. I may not be back this year, but I'll be back for you again one day, SE AZ! 

[birdycass]

Got good looks at a nesting pair of Rose-throated Becards near Tumacacori. Check out that pink! #birding #arizona #rosethroatedbecard #finallyasuccessfullchase (at Tumacácori National Historical Park)

[thxnews]

Cancun Beaches: Unveiling History, Culture, and Beauty

  Ladies and gentlemen, as we embark on this literary voyage to the Mexican jewel of Cancun, it is essential to shed preconceived notions and allow the tapestry of Cancun to reveal its true depth and diversity. Beyond the sun-soaked shores that have enamored travelers for generations, Cancun beckons with a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered.  

Temple of the Warriors, Chichen Itza, Maya Ruins, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. Photo by Jim G. Flickr.  

Unveiling History and Culture

Cancun, often adorned with postcard-perfect beaches, is also a canvas adorned with a rich tapestry of history and culture. A journey through time awaits those willing to explore the awe-inspiring Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, a testament to the brilliance of ancient civilizations. As you dive beneath the waves, a mesmerizing world emerges - the Cancun Underwater Museum, a fusion of art and marine life, stands as a testament to human creativity beneath the waves.   Immersion in Local Culture In the heart of Cancun, a traditional temazcal ceremony unfolds, connecting you with the indigenous traditions that have shaped this region. An interactive encounter with playful dolphins at the Interactive Aquarium Cancun can create cherished memories. For those seeking a drier adventure, a tranquil glass-bottom boat tour of the Cancun reef offers a window to the underwater world without getting wet. And let's not forget the vibrant markets, Mercado 28 and Plaza La Isla, where you can discover the perfect memento of your journey.  

Green Sea Turtles in Akumal, Cancun, Mexico. Photo by Andresvilla. Wikimedia.  

Embracing Nature's Bounty

For the nature enthusiasts among us, Cancun reveals itself as a paradise within paradise. Nestled on the Yucatán Peninsula, Cancun unveils a stunning natural backdrop, adorned with alluring beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush jungle landscapes. Here, diverse wildlife thrives, from colorful parrots to curious iguanas and graceful sea turtles. As you traverse this verdant landscape, you'll also find the opportunity to explore the area's captivating history through the nearby Mayan ruins.  

Roseate Spoonbill. Photo by Andy Morffew. Flickr.  

A Haven for Birdwatchers

For the aficionados of avian wonders, Cancun is a sanctuary where over 500 bird species, some exclusive to this region, bless the land with their vibrant presence. Amidst diverse habitats, from mangrove forests to sandy beaches and wetland marshes, ornithologists discover treasures like the roseate spoonbill, white-cheeked pintail, rose-throated becard, black-necked stilt, rainbow lorikeet, and Zapata wren - a paradise for birdwatchers.  

Senor Frog is a popular bar in Cancun. Photo by David Stanley. Flickr.  

A Tropical Paradise for Relaxation

Cancun's allure extends to those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The city's reputation as a tropical paradise is well-deserved, boasting a multitude of luxury resorts catering to varied interests. Whether one fancies languishing poolside, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or dancing the night away in Cancun's renowned nightclubs, the city leaves no desires unfulfilled. Conveniently located just a brief flight from the United States, Cancun accommodates both quick getaways and extended vacations, ensuring a tailor-made experience for each visitor.   Vibrant Nightlife The nights in Cancun, vibrant with mariachi melodies and salsa rhythms, are a testament to Mexico's exuberance. Moreover, some of the country's finest nightclubs, such as Coco Bongo, LaSanta, LaBarre, and Dady’o, feature world-class DJs and vibrant live performances, ensuring satisfaction for every taste. For those who prefer a more subdued evening, Chapultepec Cerveceria beckons with an extensive craft beer selection, in addition to an outdoor patio perfect for people-watching.  

Sailing Catamarans: A Serene Adventure

Cancun sailing catamarans, stable and spacious, offer an idyllic opportunity to savor the region's sights and sounds. Departing from the marina, these vessels take you on a sun-kissed journey, where a captain and crew attend to every detail, allowing you to simply savor every moment.  

JW Marriott Cancun. Photo by Curtis Palmer. Flickr.  

Diverse Accommodation Choices

Cancun offers a smorgasbord of accommodations to cater to every traveler's preferences. Whether one seeks opulence, relaxation, or budget-friendly options, Cancun provides a spectrum of choices. The Ritz-Carlton Cancun and JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa grace the classical Hotel Zone strip with their opulent offerings. In the peaceful Puerto Juarez neighborhood, the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun provides beachfront tranquility. For the more budget-conscious traveler, Oasis Palm Beach, boasting easy access to the main Cancun beaches, is a good alternative. Located on Cancun's northern tip, it delivers affordability without compromising the beauty and convenience of this captivating destination.  

The beautiful beach in Cancun, Mexico. Photo by Paul Mannix. Flickr.  

Best Times to Visit Cancun

When deciding on the best time to visit Cancun, factors like weather and crowd density should influence your choice. From December to April, with its warm temperatures and reduced humidity, Cancun experiences its peak season, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, booking accommodations and flights in advance is advisable due to the heightened popularity during this period. Alternatively, the off-season from May to November, marked by hotter and more humid weather, promises a quieter experience with fewer tourists and opportunities for significant savings on accommodations and activities.  

A Multifaceted Paradise Awaits

In essence, Cancun's allure transcends its stunning beaches. This city, with its rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and diverse activities, caters to a myriad of interests. As you plot your course for Cancun, be sure to weave some of these extraordinary experiences into your itinerary to extract the most from your tropical sojourn. As we conclude our journey into the multifaceted Cancun, let us recall the words of John Steinbeck, who once remarked, "We do not take a trip, a trip takes us." In Cancun, the voyage takes us on an odyssey of discovery, relaxation, and jubilation, leaving us forever touched by its magic. Until we meet again, may your travels be adorned with wonder and your days bathed in sunshine.  

Conclusion

And so, as we draw the curtain on our exploration of Cancun, that sun-soaked jewel of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, we find ourselves with a sense of wonder and amazement. Cancun, a place often synonymous with pristine beaches and azure waters, reveals itself as a multi-faceted gem, each facet reflecting the splendor of its history, the bounty of its nature, and the vivacity of its culture. From the remnants of the ancient Maya civilization to the vibrant colors of exotic birds, Cancun's historical and natural tapestry is a treasure trove for the curious traveler. But Cancun also knows how to unwind, offering a sanctuary for relaxation and recreation that's second to none. The nights in Cancun, enlivened by the melodies of mariachi and the rhythms of salsa, are a celebration of life itself, a living testament to Mexico's exuberance. And when the day begins anew, the tranquil waters beckon and the boats set sail, inviting us to explore the secrets of the deep. Cancun is a place where time seems to slow, where the world's cares are set adrift, and where the heart finds solace. As I bid you adieu from this paradise in the Caribbean, I leave you with the words of a great traveler, John Steinbeck, who once said, "We do not take a trip, a trip takes us." In Cancun, the trip takes us on a journey of discovery, relaxation, and joy, leaving us forever touched by its magic. Until we meet once more, may your travels abound with wonder, and may sunshine grace your days.   Sources: THX News, Lonely Planet & US News Travel. Read the full article

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Day 55: Bullock’s and Becards

Day 55: Bullock’s and Becards

Derik and I work a lot and we only (sometimes) get the same day off each week so we live for those Sundays. We watch the birds appearing on the apps and anxiously read over the rare bird alerts each time they come out. Tubac had been on our mind for awhile and this was finally the time to check it out.

Our goal was the Rose-throated Becards that seem to have come back a bit early, a Bullock’s…