Wildlife Conservation Insights | Paso Pacifico Blog

Fireworks and Animals Safety

While families gather to watch multicolored displays illuminate New Year's Eve skies, both wildlife and domestic animals endure something far more primal; fear. Across Mesoamerica forests, fireworks and animals create a devastating dynamic: explosions trigger mass panic, forcing animals to run for cover. Understanding this impact is crucial for protecting vulnerable species during celebrations. Why Are Animals Afraid of Fireworks? Why are animals scared of fireworks? Because their biology registers...

Native Bees & Squash Plants

Along the Pacific coast of Mesoamerica, people, plants, and pollinators have shared a bond that goes back thousands of years. There are three key players at the heart of this story: the farmers who tend the land, the native bees that pollinate it, and the humble squash plants that have nourished families for generations. These three have always worked in harmony. The bees visit the squash blossoms at sunrise, helping...

Panamanian White-faced Capuchin

Remember Ross’s furry friend from the popular TV show F.R.I.E.N.D.S? Yes, we’re talking about the same Marcel who later became a movie star. Why are we talking about him? Because today we're going to discuss him and his kind - the Panamanian white-faced capuchin. Also known as the Panamanian white-chested capuchin, this entire primate species is considered to be the smartest among New World monkeys. Despite the smarts, they face...

Pacific Coast Migratory Birds

Each year, the Pacific coast of Mesoamerica becomes part of one of the world’s greatest natural journeys. This is when at least a billion birds migrate south to escape harsh weather conditions. This incredible movement also reminds us how important the region is for both species that already live there and those that come here during migration. In this blog, we understand what migratory birds are and why they move...

Bat Appreciation Month

From eponymous superheroes to urban legends, bats have always been associated with darkness and mystery. But since October is Bat Appreciation Month, let’s set the record straight. Admittedly, October being the chosen month sort of foreshadows their often unfortunate reputation. But it’s undeniably the perfect time (and opportunity) to learn more about these winged mammals. Why? Because many species of these so-called “creatures of the night” are endangered today. The...

The Oaxaca Hummingbird

Have you ever dreamt of taking your dream vacation in Mexico? Do you picture white sandy beaches and endless parties under the stars? Well, here's something you may not know. You'll find more than just beaches or delicious food in Mexico. It also has some of the world's most diverse and rich ecosystems. Take Oaxaca, for example. This Mexican state has over 8000 species of plant life. Fascinated with animals?...

Ashy Storm Petrels

The Pacific coast is home to some of the world’s most unique wildlife. In this region, you can find sea turtles, jaguars, and even spider monkeys—all of which play a crucial role in maintaining the balance in this fragile ecosystem. But did you know that the Pacific coast is also home to a fascinating seabird that is steeped in legends and folklore? We are talking about the ashy storm petrel...

_what is the difference between threatened endangered and extinct species

Threatened vs Endangered Species

The words threatened, endangered, and extinct may not seem very different to us. But for wildlife specialists, the differences are very important. It’s how we understand the unique threats each species faces, and how we devise methods to protect them. It teaches us to better account for an animal’s needs. It’s essentially what enables groups like Paso Pacifico to lead conservation programs across Mesoamerica — and the rest of the world....

Discover Pacific Coast Animals

The Pacific Coast in the Mesoamerican region stretches from sunny California and Mexico to the heart of Central America. The region is not just rich in history and culture, but also abundant in tropical dry forests, mangroves, and grasslands. And, when the monsoon rains fall, the landscapes and canopy are transformed into a lush green carpet. And what about the animals of the Pacific Coast? Well, some move to wetter...

Central American Agouti

Do you know what’s the most fascinating thing about nature? Even its smallest creatures carry the biggest imaginable responsibilities. And, a fine example of that is the Central American Agouti. This seemingly insignificant creature that looks like an odd cross between a capybara and a squirrel helps in improving the green cover of its habitat. Never heard of them? If you didn’t, agoutis are small-to-medium-sized rodents native to Central and...

Paso Pacífico Blog