Los Cabos, the second city in Mexico to obtain international Bird City certification
Los Cabos became the second Mexican city to receive the international Bird City certification, a recognition that endorses its bird and habitat conservation efforts, as well as its commitment to a sustainable tourism model. The official presentation will take place within the framework of the First International Bird Festival 2025, scheduled for September 25-27.
The international distinction is awarded to cities that implement comprehensive environmental protection programs based on four pillars: habitat protection, threat mitigation, education and social commitment, and sustainability, with a total of 22 components evaluated.
A guide to promoting birdwatching
As part of this strategy, the Los Cabos Tourism Trust (FITURCA) and the Autonomous University of Baja California Sur (UABCS) presented the Baja California Sur Birdwatching Guide, which promotes birdwatching routes and a specialized trail within the Sierra La Laguna Biosphere Reserve.
“With this guide, we seek to integrate birdwatching into community tourism value chains, generating economic and social benefits in rural communities while protecting our biocultural heritage,” said Rodrigo Esponda, general director of FITURCA.
The publication includes digital materials, signage, quick guides, and promotional items, with the goal of strengthening responsible tourism in the region.
Natural and Cultural Wealth
Los Cabos is home to more than 340 bird species, part of the 1,100 to 1,200 recorded in Mexico, according to studies by the UABCS. The local biodiversity includes marine and pelagic species that make sites like Cabo Pulmo, the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve, and the San José del Cabo Estuary strategic points for conservation and birdwatching.
“Los Cabos is a privileged place for birdwatching, thanks to its geographic location and its protected natural areas,” highlighted Emer García Orozco, a researcher at UABCS and president of the organizing committee of the International Bird Festival.
First International Bird Festival
To celebrate its Bird City designation, Los Cabos will host the First International Bird Festival 2025, from September 25 to 27, with free admission. The event will include specialized conferences, cultural activities, birdwatching, the official certification ceremony, and recognition of the City Nature Challenge Los Cabos 2025.
With these initiatives, Los Cabos is consolidating its position as a benchmark in environmental conservation and sustainable tourism, reinforcing its leadership in protecting biodiversity and promoting responsible development for the benefit of the community and future generations.