Quintana Roo hotels use falconry to deter birds

Hotels in the Riviera Maya and Cancún are utilizing falconry as a biological method to deter pigeons and seagulls from common areas such as restaurants, terraces, and pools. This strategy uses trained birds of prey to trigger an instinctive flight response in other birds, preventing them from congregating in areas where they might cause cleanliness or maintenance issues.

Unlike chemical deterrents or visual devices, falconry provides a dynamic element that prevents birds from becoming habituated to the method. This approach is considered a form of responsible wildlife management as it avoids the use of harmful substances or traps.

Under Mexican law, falconry is not prohibited. The Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) allows for the registration of birds of prey, including hawks, eagles, and owls, for falconry purposes. The legality of the practice depends on whether the specific birds are properly registered and if their handling complies with wildlife legislation.