El Historico Coyoacan National Park

El Historico Coyoacan Overview

El Histórico Coyoacán National Park, locally known as “Viveros de Coyoacán,” is located in the Coyoacán district, at the heart of Mexico City.

Covering approximately 39 hectares (0.15 square miles), this urban park was originally established in 1938 as a tree nursery to supply vegetation for reforestation efforts across the city and surrounding areas. Over time, it has evolved into a vital recreational and educational space, offering a green refuge amid the bustling metropolis.

The park’s terrain is predominantly flat, making it highly accessible for visitors. Well-defined pathways wind through dense vegetation, primarily composed of eucalyptus, pine, and cedar trees. These trees not only enhance the park’s scenic beauty but also contribute significantly to air quality, serving as one of Mexico City’s essential green lungs. In addition to the forested sections, the park features landscaped gardens and designated areas for plant propagation, reflecting its original function as a nursery.

Although situated in an urban environment, the park hosts a variety of wildlife that has adapted to city life. Squirrels are commonly seen darting among the trees, while an array of bird species, including sparrows, hummingbirds, and pigeons, find shelter in the park. The presence of these animals provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience a touch of nature without leaving the city.

One of the park’s most popular features is its network of walking and running trails, which stretch for approximately two kilometers. These paths are frequently used by joggers, walkers, and individuals practicing yoga or tai chi.

The serene atmosphere and fresh air offer a peaceful escape from urban life, allowing visitors to relax and rejuvenate. Additionally, picnic areas provide a space for families and friends to gather and enjoy outdoor meals. For those interested in botany, the park’s nursery runs educational programs on the importance of reforestation and environmental conservation.

Visitors can engage with the park in various ways. Beyond recreational activities, it offers workshops and events focused on gardening and sustainability, designed to educate the public on eco-friendly practices and the significance of preserving green spaces in urban areas. Guided tours are also available, providing in-depth information on the park’s diverse plant species, its history, and its evolution over the decades.

From a conservation perspective, El Histórico Coyoacán National Park faces challenges typical of a natural space within a densely populated city. Urban expansion and a constant influx of visitors necessitate ongoing efforts to maintain and protect its ecosystems.

However, thanks to dedicated management and community collaboration, the park has successfully preserved its biodiversity and continues to serve as both a natural sanctuary and an educational center. Reforestation initiatives and regular upkeep ensure that it remains a thriving green space for future generations.

El Histórico Coyoacán National Park stands as a living example of the balance between nature and urban development. It provides residents and tourists alike with a place for recreation, education, and environmental connection, all within a historically and culturally rich setting.

Park Map

El Historico Coyoacan National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Despite being located within Mexico City, El Histórico Coyoacán National Park provides an important habitat for various bird species, particularly those adapted to urban environments and wooded areas.

Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)
This large raptor is often seen soaring over the park, preying on rodents, birds, and reptiles.

American Kestrel (Falco sparverius)
The smallest falcon in North America, the American kestrel is commonly seen perched on trees and utility poles, hunting insects and small vertebrates.

Curve-billed Thrasher (Toxostoma curvirostre)
A songbird with a distinctive curved bill, this species is commonly seen foraging through the undergrowth for insects and seeds.

White-winged Dove (Zenaida asiatica)
A large dove species often seen in trees and open spaces, the white-winged dove feeds on seeds and fruits.

House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus)
A small reddish songbird frequently found in urban parks, the house finch forages for seeds and berries.

Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus)
A nocturnal predator that hunts rodents, rabbits, and small birds, this owl has adapted well to large green spaces in cities.

Lesser Goldfinch (Spinus psaltria)
A small finch with bright yellow plumage, the lesser goldfinch is often seen feeding on seeds in the park’s trees and shrubs.

Inca Dove (Columbina inca)
A small dove with scaly-patterned feathers, the Inca dove is commonly seen foraging for seeds on the ground.

Blue Grosbeak (Passerina caerulea)
A striking blue songbird often found near shrubs and woodland edges, where it feeds on seeds and insects.

Rufous-backed Robin (Turdus rufopalliatus)
A common thrush in urban parks, the rufous-backed robin has a beautiful song and is often seen foraging on the ground for insects and berries.

El Histórico Coyoacán National Park, located in the southern part of Mexico City, is an important urban green space that provides a refuge for wildlife amid a highly developed metropolitan area. The park’s combination of wooded areas, gardens, and water features supports a variety of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians that have adapted to city life.

Coyote (Canis latrans)
Once common in the Valley of Mexico, coyotes are still occasionally spotted in large green spaces like Coyoacán National Park, where they hunt rodents and small mammals.

Mexican Gray Fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus)
This small and agile fox is a nocturnal omnivore that feeds on insects, small vertebrates, and fruits. It can sometimes be seen in quiet areas of the park.

Nine-banded Armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus)
A nocturnal, burrowing mammal, the armadillo is a skilled digger that feeds on insects and larvae, playing a crucial role in controlling insect populations.

Eastern Cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus)
A common sight in the park’s green spaces, the cottontail rabbit forages on grasses and plants while serving as prey for urban predators.

Ring-tailed Cat (Bassariscus astutus)
A nocturnal mammal related to raccoons, the ring-tailed cat is a skilled climber that preys on insects, rodents, and fruit.

Mexican Mole Lizard (Bipes biporus)
A rare and fascinating reptile, the Mexican mole lizard looks like a snake with tiny, clawed forelimbs. It spends most of its time underground hunting insects and small invertebrates.

Mexican Plateau Garter Snake (Thamnophis eques megalops)
A harmless, semi-aquatic snake that thrives in urban parks with water features, this garter snake preys on amphibians and small fish.

Black Spiny-tailed Iguana (Ctenosaura pectinata)
A fast-moving lizard that thrives in warm, sunlit areas of the park, this iguana feeds on plants, flowers, and small insects.

Ajolote del Altiplano (Ambystoma altamirani)
A close relative of the famous axolotl, this salamander is found in small water bodies and streams, making it an important indicator of local water quality.

Common Toad (Rhinella horribilis)
A widespread amphibian, the common toad is often found in gardens and green areas, feeding on insects and helping control pest populations.