National Autonomous University of Mexico, UNAM - BirdForum Opus

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Mexico, Mexico City

Overview

The National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) offers excellent birding—whether or not it's term time. However, key areas like the Botanic Garden are only open during then. At other times, the extensive grounds and thick shrubby growth are productive for hummingbirds and warblers.

When open, the Botanic Garden is a good place to find Hooded Yellowthroat.

Birds

Notable Species

As elsewhere in Mexico City, you will encounter large numbers of New World Warblers during the northern winter. In UNAM the standard (Audubon's) Yellow-rumped Warbler can be supplemented by others such as Black-throated Gray Warbler, Hermit Warbler and Olive Warbler. The warblers are especially attracted to introduced Grevillea (orange) and Eucalyptus (light yellow) flowers. Check the abundant introduced orange Leonotis nepetifolia for smaller hummingbirds and the native white-flowered shrub Ipomoea arborescens for larger species. Cinnamon-bellied Flowerpiercer is also common.

Other Wildlife

Virginia Opossums are commonly in University rubbish bins in the early morning.

Access and Facilities

Metrobus Ciudad Universitaria is a good starting point. Remember to check the Leonotis near the stop itself.

External Links

See ebird hotspots for up-to-date sightings info:

• https://ebird.org/hotspot/L2169184 Botanic gardens
• https://ebird.org/hotspot/L2209489 Reserva Ecológica del Pedregal de San Angel (next door to botanic gardens)
• https://ebird.org/hotspot/L2377690 Representative hotspot for elsewhere on the campus