Cozumel Saves 150 Animals in 2024 Amid Urban Growth

Govind Tekale

FPMC's wildlife rescue operations saved 150 animals in 2024, including 65 birds, 43 mammals, and 41 reptiles across Cozumel's diverse ecosystem.

Photo Source: Deepwater Hori (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Urban expansion forces wildlife into dangerous encounters, with birds facing window collisions and road accidents while mammals struggle to navigate city spaces.

Photo Source: Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Blue crabs face mounting risks during migration periods, particularly when crossing the northern highway's treacherous stretch.

Photo Source: Leoadec (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Director Juanita Alonso Marrufo pushes for stronger community participation, stating government action alone cannot sustain conservation efforts.

Photo Source: Staffsfire (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Veterinarian Julio César Gutiérrez leads specialized rehabilitation programs at the Veterinary Medical Center, ensuring rescued animals receive expert care.

Photo Source: Deepwater Hori (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Conservation Director Rafael Chacón Díaz credits community reporting system for successful wildlife interventions across urban areas.

Photo Source: Virginia State Parks (CC BY 2.0)

Displaced iguanas and crocodiles increasingly appear on roads and residential zones, signaling habitat disruption trends.

Photo Source: Quickspice (CC BY 2.0)

FPMC partners with CCEA to enhance rescue capabilities, though long-term solutions for wildlife-urban conflicts remain unexplored.

Photo Source: audreyjm529 (CC BY 2.0)

Rising rescue numbers point to gaps in current wildlife protection measures despite ongoing rehabilitation programs.

Photo Source: UNP (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Residents can report endangered wildlife through foundation channels, while FPMC continues habitat protection amid urban development challenges.

Photo Source: Ralph (CC BY 2.0)

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