New Protected Area in Solidaridad, Cozumel & Tulum: A Haven for 1,063 Species

The "Felipe Carrillo Puerto" Natural Protected Area has been declared in the municipalities of Solidaridad, Cozumel, and Tulum. This protects over 53,000 hectares of tropical jungles, mangroves, savannas, palm groves, and coastal shrubland, along with 1,063 animal species. This move increases Mexico's federally protected spaces to 227, all managed by the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (Conanp).

Recently, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) announced the decree of the "Felipe Carrillo Puerto" area, which includes the material bank of Calica, a company owned by the American firm, Vulcan Materials. This declaration is not an expropriation, but rather a commitment to protect Mexico's natural resources and ensure a healthy environment for its residents.

The goal of this new protected area is to maintain the continuity of the Yucatan Peninsula's characteristic jungles and coastal wetlands. These areas provide shelter and food for various species, assist in flood control, and act as barriers against hurricanes and salt intrusion. They also enhance water quality and promote pollination, among other environmental benefits. This declaration also presents an opportunity to focus on nature conservation, including restoration, maintenance, sustainable use, and environmental improvement.

The new area is crucial for protecting 1,063 animal and plant species, including endangered Mexican primates such as the black howler monkey and the spider monkey. Over half of the site is considered a priority for their conservation.

The protected area also promotes biological connectivity between the coast and the tropical jungles. This is essential for the conservation of endangered species such as the jaguar, providing them with food, water, and shelter to maintain healthy populations and prevent isolation. Other protected species include the white-fronted parrot, the ocellated turkey, the spiny-tailed iguana, and the yellow-spotted lizard, all native to the Yucatan Peninsula. Among the mammals, the endangered jaguar and ocelot are also preserved. At least 34 species of pollinators are conserved, including 22 insects like butterflies, moths, and bees, and 12 vertebrates such as the rufous hummingbird and the candid hummingbird.