it's autumn!
The Season of Migration and TransitionInvest in our conservation and education programs
WELCOMING MIGRATORY BIRDS
YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER
NORTHERN PINTAIL
BLACK-BACK ORIOLE
RUBY-THROAT HUMMINGBIRD
Scientists estimate that as many as 10 billion birds migrate between their northern and southern habitats each season, a survival strategy that has evolved over millions of years.
These migrants fly mostly at night, navigating by the stars and resting by day in forests, wetlands, and backyards along the way. Their journey entails thousands of miles, navigating weather and other threats. Their survival depends on finding safe places to rest, food to eat, and water to drink.
The month of October represents the height of the fall migratory season. Many species are stopping in San Miguel to refuel and rest, while others will make San Miguel their winter home.
Here’s what you can do, to welcome them:
- Plant flowers, shrubs, and trees offers food in the form of berries, seeds, nectar and insects.
- Provide water – a clean birdbath or shallow dish of water can be a lifesaver for tired birds.
- Turn off unnecessary outdoor lights at night or opt for dark-sky lighting at your home.
- Put out nectar feeders for humingbirds and other nectar-loving species.
Each step we take to welcome migratory birds supports their survival and preserves their integral role in ecosystem health, while also keeping our world alive with song and color.
DARK SKIES & STARRY STARRY NIGHTS
Restoring our dark skies is about restoring balance: keeping the outdoor lights we truly need for safety, while creating safer skies for birds and starry nights for ourselves.
- Why it matters for wildlife:
Many species rely on natural darkness. Migratory birds use stars to navigate; bright city lights can confuse them, causing exhaustion and collisions. Insects, mammals, and plants are also affected by disrupted cycles. -
Why it matters for people:
Artificial light at night disrupts healthy wake-sleep cycles, which can affect human physical and mental health.
Simple and impactful actions: Use outdoor lighting only where and when it’s needed, using light fixtures that direct light downward, using lower-intensity (think low lumens, not watts) and warm-colored bulbs, and timers or motion-detectors.
BEST 1 HUMMINGBIRD FEEDERS ARE BACK!
These 32 oz glass feeders have been tried and tested over several years in San Miguel with great success. It’s 8 ports will attract and feed a large number of hummingbirds, and it’s flat base allows the hummingbirds to perch while feeding. What’s more, a hummingbird feeder is not only a source of nectar for hummingbirds, but also attracts orioles, woodpeckers, warblers, and finches.
To get to know our migratory hummingbirds click here.
400 pesos/350 pesos for members.
Send us an email if you would like to make a purchase. audubondemexico@gmail.com.
Ninos y Naturaleza at the movies!
Los maestros del mañana
Starring: Our fantastic 5th grade students at Montes de Oca primary school (now in 6th grade) and our amazing maestra, Grisel Lopez. Original music written and performed by Alejandro Valladeres, our do all and be all for our school gardens.
Runtime: 10 min
Language: Spanish with English subtitles
Rated: G (Great for everyone!)
Informative, inspirational, lovely to watch…
NIÑOS Y NATURALEZA PROGRAM
Helping or local youth form a caring connection with nature and the values, skills and knowledge
that will empower them to become active contributors to a healthy society – for the sake of their future and for nature itself.
Making positive connections with nature
Kids who have made positive connections with Nature are happier and healthier and more compassionate, mindful and empowered to shape their future. They do better in school, too.
Take a minute to read this Mexican study showing that children who grow up feeling close to nature are happier and more likely to care for the planet than those who suffer from ‘nature deficit disorder’. Read all about it.
Planting Seeds for Positive Change
We strive to foster a love for the natural world in our students through bird and nature studies, habitat planting, and vegetable gardening. By immersing our students in the outdoors, we inspire wonder, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for nature to empower them to become active participants in securing a healthy and sustainable future.
Benefits and Impact of School Gardens
Our school gardens are natural laboratories for learning that bring to life lessons in science, art, math, nutrition and environmental awareness and conservation. In this video, principals and teachers at schools where gardening has become integrated into the curriculum, discuss the powerful impact of school gardens. Watch now
OUTDOOR & CONSERVATION EVENTS
Getting outside is good for you and nature
VOLUNTEER, SAVE A NATIVE TREE
Sunday, October 12, 2025
Details coming for a special event with ROTARAC & El Charco
Our native Mesquites and Huizaches are plagued by an air plant called Paxtle and two species of parasitic plants. Without volunteers to remove these plants, the trees will not survive. Learn more and plan to join us for a rewarding morning!!
Trees RESTORED!!
GO KAYAKING!
Immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery and diverse birdlife of the Presa and the Rio Laja.
Our relaxed pace provides opportunity to chat, take photos and soak in the surroundings in the company of nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts from San Miguel and beyond.
Kayak outings depart from the Amigos boathouse near Otomi Equestrian Center.
MONTHLY BIRDWALKS
Take a Walk on the Wild Side!
Our monthly birdwalks take place the 3rd Saturday of every month in a countryside location.
Join our expert birders who will help you to explore and know the birds of San Miguel. Enjoy the company of others who love to get outside and enjoy nature!
Open to all birders, beginning and experienced alike.
GARDENING FOR WILDLIFE
The garden suggests there might be a place where we can meet nature halfway.
—Michael Pollan
Attract Birds, Butterflies & Other Wildlife to your Garden
Information about plants, planting, resources and other good things to know about making your garden wildlife friendly. Stop by our pollinator friendly garden at Parque Juarez to learn about gardening for pollinators or check out our resource section of the website!
Volunteer at our Parque Juarez Pollinator Garden
Our Audubon de Mexico demonstration and education habitat garden for pollinators was established in 2015 and has since doubled in size. Filled with plants that attract birds, bees, and butterflies, our garden is a haven for these important creatures. Join our dedicated volunteers every Thursday morning from 9:30 until 11:30 as we tend to the garden by planting, pruning, and watering.
All the necessary tools and equipment are provided, so just bring yourself!
For more information, please contact us at audubondemexico@gmail.com.
Attract Birds, Butterflies & Other Wildlife to your Garden
Information about plants, planting, resources and other good things to know about making your garden wildlife friendly. Stop by our pollinator friendly garden at Parque Juarez to learn about gardening for pollinators or check out our resource section of the website!
Watch Ecologist Amanda Schnochet
An inspiring Ted Talk about how Amanda found a glimmer hope for the future by studying how bumble bees survive by navigating small urban land patches… and learned that even one passionate gardener can make a positive impact.
The Wonder of Life…
A wonderful, inspiring short to watch and share about the work of animal photographer, Tim Flach.
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Our monthly newsletter will keep you up to date on our scheduled events, our work, and features monthly nature-related articles.