Zona Arqueológica San Gervasio

The San Gervasio Archeological Site, which dates back to the Early Classic period (300-400 AD) is host to more than 180 bird species, ranking it #6 on the island.  Once the administrative and religious center of the island, this hotspot offers a "two-for-one", the opportunity to bird while also exploring Mayan ruins and forests along peaceful trails.  Sightings of endemics and local subspecies (e.g., Cozumel Vireo, Black Catbird, Cozumel Emerald, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, House Wren, Rufous-browed Peppershrike, Western Spindalis) are virtually guaranteed year-round.  During fall, winter and spring, the site is host to a wide diversity of migrant warblers and other birds.

Additional information on species and sighting frequencies can be found on the eBird Overview, Bar Chart, and Illustrated Checklist pages for this site.

Tips for Birding this Site

Access to the entrance road to the archeological site is through the well-marked gate along the Transversal from San Miguel to the east coast.  The gate doesn't open until 9 am, which is an ongoing frustration for birders.  You don't pay at the gate, you simply pass through and then drive the long entrance road to the site.  There are many unimproved side-roads to explore along the entrance road.  Once you reach the main parking lot, you can park under the shade trees, and then proceed through the two different fee stations (total cost ~$13 USD).  You can also hire a guide who will take you through the site, and many of them also know at least some of the birds.  Note, "professional cameras" are not allowed, and there are signs to that effect at each of the fee stations.  Apparently cell phones and small pocket cameras are okay.  If you plan to bring a camera with a big lens, keep it in a bag until you are through the fee stations and away from the crowds in the central plaza area.  There are restrooms and concessions available before you pass through the 2nd fee station, but there are no facilities once inside.

Birding at this site is most relaxing during the low-seasons as it can sometimes get busy with tours from the cruise ships during winter.  However, once you get out on some of the trails to the more distant structures (e.g., POI #2, 3, and 4), you generally don't see any large groups.  The old Mayan Road (POI #5) is definitely worth seeing.   I generally wear long pants and sleeves and can avoid using bug repellent.  After touring the main archeological sites, I generally go east a bit on the short nature trail (POI #6) to the cenote (POI#7); I have never encountered anyone in this area, and the forest is really nice to experience.  If you have time, you can climb down into the cenote to see the bats under the overhangs.   It is also possible to walk east from the north end of the parking lot, past some of the staff housing, along the unimproved road; the fields in this area are typically rich with a variety of birds.

 Biting insects can be annoying at this site, especially during summer and after rains, and on calm days.