Photos by Kim and Cindy Risen / www.naturescapenews.com
Wildlife amid Ruins: Protecting the cultural resources of Chiapas, such as the impressive Mayan site of Palenque, has the added benefit of conserving wildlife habitats. Black-collared Hawks, (right) are colorful residents of the area and can be found hunting among wooded wetlands near Palenque.

By Mike Mulligan

Along with Oaxaca, Palenque and surrounding sites in northern Chiapas are among the most interesting and productive birding areas in Mexico. Kim Risen and I had discussed this tour for over a year, planning how to best cover the famed extensive Usumacinta marshes, the striking Palenque ruins and the highland habitats surrounding the charming city of San Cristóbal de las Casas.

In early December 2006, we finally had a chance to put our plans to the test. The city of Villahermosa and its modern airport acted as our gateway to the wonders of Palenque. Although we were unquestionably in the tropical lowlands, the weather was comfortably mild for our entire stay. As we traveled toward Palenque, a series of flooded wetlands yield a number of interesting birds.

Catch the rest of the story in the April Issue of NatureScape News!       Previous Highlight