In the heart of the Naucalli Park, in Naucalpan, State of Mexico, an innovative proposal invites us to rethink the relationship between city and nature. This is “Adopt a Hummingbird”, a program that promotes the creation of urban shelters for hummingbirds, small birds but essential for biodiversity.
The initiative, led by Diana Bellini, aims to recover green spaces, multiply pollinator plants, and raise awareness among citizens about the fragility of these species.
What does adopting a hummingbird mean?
A symbolic commitment, concrete action, and a community in motion.
Adopting a hummingbird does not imply owning it, but rather assuming a symbolic commitment to its protection. Participants can acquire a Hummingbird Kit for 500 Mexican pesos, which includes:
- A hummingbird-shaped pendant
- Certificate as a co-creator of the sanctuary
- Digital care guide
- Artistic calendar
- Public acknowledgment on social media
Additionally, volunteering days are organized where more than 100 species are planted per campaign, strengthening the urban habitat.
The importance of conserving hummingbirds
Why protect hummingbirds in urban environments?
Pollution, urbanization, and harmful practices threaten their survival.
Mexico is home to 59 species of hummingbirds, 13 of them endemic, but many face population declines.
In areas like Naucalpan, the loss of native vegetation and the use of practices such as “love spells” have led to high mortality rates. The creation of green refuges with pollinator plants is key to reversing this trend.
The sanctuary in Naucalli Park already has:
- Seven active planters
- Over 400 pollinator plants
- Spaces for bird rehabilitation
It is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:00 to 18:00, free of charge, and accepts plant donations and support to replicate the model in other spaces.
Hummingbirds: vital pollinators and cultural symbols
Their ecological and spiritual role makes them guardians of biodiversity and collective memory.
- Efficient pollination: they transport pollen while seeking nectar, favoring plant reproduction
- Specialized relationships: their beaks evolved for specific flowers, avoiding competition and maintaining balance
- Sustainers of biodiversity: their presence indicates ecosystem health
Culturally, hummingbirds are:
- Messengers of good fortune
- Symbols of healing and positive energy
- Emblems of protection in pre-Hispanic cosmogonies, such as the Aztec, where they are linked to Huitzilopochtli, god of war and rebirth
A replicable model for livelier cities
“Adopt a Hummingbird” demonstrates that urban conservation can be inclusive, creative, and transformative.
With each kit, plant, or volunteering day, a network of ecological refuges is built that revitalizes neighborhoods, educates the public, and strengthens the bond with nature. In times of environmental crisis, these initiatives offer tangible hope and collective action.
