Amazing Mexican Animals and Wildlife
At Sandos Hotels & Resorts, we love animals just as much as you do! So here is a list of Mexican animals you´ll see during your stay.
One of our passions is to improve the quality of life for the animals that call our resorts home with a variety of programs to help them thrive in the wild. As part of our sustainability policy, we do not promote the exploitation of animals for profit at any of our resorts. For this reason, you will NOT see any photographers with animals at Sandos Hotels & Resorts.
For too many years, the practice of using flash photography with wild animals has been the norm at many resorts. Many of these animals are not well cared for or treated properly, and even if they are, our moral responsibility is to not inflict any suffering on our fellow nonhumans.
Unfortunately, not everyone feels the same as we feel. On our beaches, you might see salespeople walking around with a toucan, an iguana, or any other variety of exotic Mexican animals so travelers can pay to have a photo with the animal. Please keep in mind that these vendors are not associated with Sandos Hotels & Resorts, and that Mexico’s beaches are public; therefor, there is nothing we can do to prevent them from selling photos on the beach.
The animals used by these vendors for selling photos (as well as the ones found along 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen), are often mistreated and kept in unfortunate conditions, and many are listed as critically endangered species by CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), of which Mexico has been part since 1991. We encourage our guests not to pay to have their picture taken with the animals being exploited on the beach and on 5th Avenue.
At our resorts, you can come across many wild animals that like to roam around the property! We also have a few animals which we protect at our Riviera Maya resorts; these beautiful creatures are lovingly cared for and are all part of rescue programs. Our donkeys are rescue donkeys, and the macaws and white-tailed deer are both endangered species that we are helping with a reproduction program so we can someday return the species to the wild. At Sandos, we do not believe in captivity unless it is necessary for the contribution to the long term survival of a species.
With amazing locations so close to fascinating natural habitats, it’s no wonder that you can find a wide variety of creatures at Sandos properties. All of the photos below were taken at our resorts! Most of them are wild animals, and some are the animals we have in our own habitats as part of our rescue programs.
Animals you’ll see in Mexico:
Agouti
(Sandos Caracol and Sandos Playacar)
If you want to see an agouti you should pay close attention, since they are very shy!
Iguana
(Sandos Cancun, Sandos Caracol and Sandos Playacar)
It is considered the fastest lizard on Earth, being able to reach a speed of 35 km/h (21.75 mph).
Donkey
(Sandos Caracol and Sandos Playacar)
The donkeys we have in our hotels are rescued, because they were used as pack animals or back riding. You can feed them in the mornings inside the mini-farm, in addition to petting them. Kids love them!
Macaw
(Sandos Caracol)
These birds are super smart, and they usually eat berries and insects.
Sea Turtles and Baby Sea Turtles
(Sandos Finisterra, Sandos Cancun, Sandos Caracol and Sandos Playacar)
In the summer months, thousands of sea turtles come to the beaches of Mexico to lay their eggs. We help them by protecting their nests and releasing the baby sea turtles into the ocean once they hatch. For example, att Sandos Cancun we released 4,731 baby sea turtles in 2013.
Nasua (coati)
(Sandos Caracol and Sandos Playacar)
The coatis live in groups of 5 to 20 individuals, almost always composed by females and young males. So if you see one , you do not have to wait long for their friends to appear nearby.
Big Cats and Small Cats
(Sandos Caracol and Sandos Playacar)
In our two Riviera Maya resorts, we have “Cat cities” to feed the friendly stray domestic cats found on the properties, but the Riviera Maya also hosts many wild cat species.
Mexico's wild cats are as diverse as its landscapes, and even in the resort-filled Riviera Maya, their elusive presence whispers of the untamed wilderness nearby. While encounters are rare, these fascinating creatures are a testament to the region's rich biodiversity. Here are the five most famous wild cats that if you are very, very lucky, you could see:
- Jaguar: The Elusive Apex Predator: The jaguar, the third largest cat in the world, once roamed freely from the United States all the way to South America. Sadly, their territory has shrunk due to habitat loss and hunting. In the Yucatán Peninsula, sightings are now incredibly rare, as these magnificent cats are cautious of humans and their numbers have dwindled. However, their presence still holds an aura of mystery and wonder, reminding us of the delicate balance between nature and human development.
- Puma: The Adaptable Hunter: Known as the mountain lion or cougar in other regions, the puma is a master of adaptation, found from Canada to South America. Its wide range is a testament to its ability to thrive in diverse environments, from mountains to coastal forests. In the Yucatán, they primarily prey on white-tailed deer, a common sight throughout the peninsula. Their tracks and signs are more frequently found than the animal itself, leaving an air of intrigue in their wake.
- Jaguarundi: The Weasel-like Enigma: With its slender body, short legs, and long tail, the jaguarundi resembles a cross between a cat and a weasel. This unique feline shares a similar range with the jaguar and can be found in the Yucatán Peninsula. Smaller than its larger cousin, the jaguarundi hunts rodents and reptiles, often active during the day, making it a fascinating sight for those lucky enough to spot one.
- Margay: The Agile Tree Climber: While the jaguar and jaguarundi prowl the jungle floor, the margay reigns supreme in the treetops. This arboreal cat is a skilled climber, expertly navigating the branches in search of monkeys, birds, and lizards. Tragically, the margay's beautiful, thick fur has made it a target for the illegal fur trade, further threatening its existence.
- Ocelot: The Nocturnal Phantom: Once coveted for its fur and even kept as exotic pets (with their claws and fangs removed!), the ocelot is now protected, but still faces challenges. This nocturnal hunter, weighing around 20 pounds, primarily feasts on rodents and small mammals, silently patrolling its territory under the cover of night.
While encountering these elusive felines might be a rare treat, their presence in the Yucatán is a powerful reminder of the importance of conservation and protecting these vital ecosystems. If you're lucky enough to spot one, cherish the moment, knowing that you've glimpsed a wild creature that plays a crucial role in the balance of nature.
Raccoon
(Sandos Caracol and Sandos Playacar)
This cute animals are popular for being very skilful with their front claws, which they use to take the food they want. Sometimes they are called “washing bears” because they wet their food, but they do it to remove the poison (like the one in the frogs) and other substances, although there are many theories of the reason why they dot it.
White Tailed Deer
(Sandos Caracol)
At our eco resort, we have a spacious habitat for the white tailed deer, an endangered species. It is considered the national symbol of the fauna of Honduras, and patriotic symbol of Costa Rica.
Peacock
(Sandos Caracol)
Although its size is not small and has long feathers, the peacock can make short flights to climb branches of trees where they rest at night.
Spider monkey
(Sandos Caracol)
Did you know that spider monkeys only have four fingers? These thumbless animals use their tail as a fifth limb. Nature knows how to compensate them!
Howler Monkey
One of the most iconic sounds of the Riviera Maya jungle is the haunting call of the howler monkey. These fascinating primates are known for their distinctive vocalizations, which can be heard for miles!
At Sandos Caracol, you might spot these furry friends swinging through the treetops or enjoying a snack of leaves and fruit. While they're wild animals, they've become accustomed to the presence of humans and offer a unique opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. Just remember to admire them from a distance and never attempt to feed them. Their loud calls are a reminder of the wild beauty that surrounds you at Sandos Caracol.
Wildlife in Mexico
As you've seen, a stay at Sandos Hotels & Resorts isn't just about luxurious accommodations and stunning beaches – it's also a chance to connect with the vibrant natural world of Mexico. The incredible biodiversity found in the Riviera Maya plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem, and we're committed to preserving it for generations to come. Whether it's spotting a shy agouti, hearing the howls of monkeys echoing through the jungle, or witnessing the release of baby sea turtles, you'll create memories that last a lifetime while appreciating the delicate balance of nature.
We hope this glimpse into the diverse creatures you can encounter at our resorts has inspired you to embark on your own wildlife adventure. And remember, when you choose Sandos, you're choosing a vacation that prioritizes animal welfare and conservation. So pack your binoculars, your camera, and your sense of wonder, and get ready to experience the magic of Mexico's fauna firsthand.
Have you had any unforgettable animal encounters at Sandos? Share your stories and photos with us on social media using #SandosWildlife!
And don't forget to take our fun quiz to discover which animal spirit you connect with most!