About an hour west of Merida, is the conservation area of
Celestún. It is an area where fresh
water meets with salt water and forms a brackish water environment that is home
to countless species of birds and other animals. Mangrove forests give shelter to many animals
and birds, as well as protecting the coastline during tropical storms and
hurricanes. Because the water is full of
tannins and reddish in color, it is a popular feeding ground of flamingos in
the winter. 
We boarded two little boats with local guides and took to
the water in search of wildlife. We saw
countless herons, egrets, white and brown pelicans, spoonbills, ibis, frigate
birds, coots, and a type of stork.
Finally we got to the flamingo feeding ground. The water was very shallow and allowed the
flamingos walk around in search of their food.
They were grouped in packs and would occasionally fly from group to
group. We got to see a group of males
court a group of females with necks outstretched as tall as they could, and
spreading their wings, while making quite a racket!
We rode through a tunnel within a mangrove forest and saw
many birds sitting in the thickets, as well as giant termite hills up in the
treas. Finally we arrived at a set of natural springs which feed fresh water into the
surrounding area. We had the opportunity
to swim in the spring, but declined as we found an adult and baby crocodile
already there. Maybe next time… 
Instead, we headed to a nearby beach area to end our day
with seafood, fresh coconuts, and a chance to search for shells.
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