Isla Contoy facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Isla Contoy |
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IUCN Category II (National Park)
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| Location | Isla Contoy, Isla Mujeres Municipality, Quintana Roo, Mexico  |
| Established | February, 1998 |
| Governing body | Secretariat of the Environment and Natural Resources |
| Official name: Parque Nacional Isla Contoy | |
| Designated: | 27 November 2003 |
| Reference #: | 1323 |
Isla Contoy is a special little island in Mexico. It's located in the state of Quintana Roo, about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) north of Isla Mujeres. This island is quite small, only about 8.5 kilometers (5.3 miles) long. Its total area is around 3.17 square kilometers (1.22 square miles).
Protecting Isla Contoy
Isla Contoy has been protected by the Mexican government for a long time, since 1961. In February 1998, it officially became a national park. This means it's a very important place for nature.
The island is managed by two groups working together. One is a local organization called Amigos de Isla Contoy A.C.. The other is a government department, the Secretary of Environment, Natural Resources and Fishing (SEMARNAT). They work hard to keep the island safe and healthy.
Visiting the Island
To protect the island's delicate environment, only a limited number of people can visit Isla Contoy each day. Just a few special tour companies have permission to bring visitors. A maximum of 200 people are allowed on the island daily.
If you want to visit, you need to ask for permission first. You can do this at the park offices in Isla Mujeres or Cancún. This helps make sure that tourism doesn't harm the island's plants and animals.
Amazing Wildlife
Isla Contoy is a true paradise for wildlife, especially for sea turtles and birds.
Sea Turtles
Four different kinds of sea turtles come to the beaches of Isla Contoy to lay their eggs. These turtles find a safe place here to nest. The turtles that visit are:
Tropical Birds
The island is also a sanctuary for many beautiful tropical marine birds. About 152 different species of birds live or visit here. Some of the most common ones include:
- Frigate bird
- Brown pelican
- Double-crested cormorant
These birds rely on the island for food, shelter, and a place to raise their young.
