Milo the friendly black vulture at Parque México in León, Guanajuato, Digi Mart USA News (León, Guanajuato, Mexico): Early in 2026, an unexpected visitor completely changed the routine of Parque México, a green space in the León Moderno neighborhood of León, Guanajuato. The bird, a black vulture (Coragyps atratus) named Milo, has broken the stereotypes of shyness and mystery associated with its species and has become the park’s “official mascot” and its most beloved resident.
Unlike what is typical of wild birds, Milo coexists peacefully every day with children, athletes and pets that visit the park, showing notable intelligence and a very docile temperament. Local users say the arrival of the bird reflects the rapid growth of concrete in the region.
“Well, I say that with all the urbanization spreading, they have nowhere else to go, and here, since they’re cared for, they’re very comfortable,” said Beatriz, a regular park visitor.
The species is scientifically recognized for its gregarious habits, close family structure and cognitive ability, which allows it to recognize faces and become accustomed to human routines when associated with safe food sources and free of aggression. For those who walk the park early in the morning, Milo’s presence has become an indispensable constant.
“I come to run three or four times a week, and every morning we meet up and keep each other company,” recounted José Manuel García, a Parque México user. At first, the interaction caused astonishment: “It was curious because we also thought he had gotten lost or that someone had left him here.
But once we saw that he is very friendly and lets us get close, it has truly been one more attraction, something that adds more life to the park.”
This fascination is not limited to adults and athletes but extends to younger generations who attend the park. For Gerónimo, a 9-year-old who enjoys riding his bicycle around the park, encountering the bird is always the best moment of the day.
“He is a very beautiful bird,” the boy said enthusiastically, adding that he considers it “fantastic to be able to be close to a bird like that,” setting aside any historical prejudice toward these animals.
The black vulture plays a fundamental role as a cleaner of urban ecosystems by consuming organic waste. However, since Milo has dissolved the “barrier of fear” at this spot in León, the community itself has taken responsibility for looking after his nutrition and overall well-being.
Visitors are often seen carrying portions of raw food to leave directly on the ground. “Yes, they look after him and bring him food, raw meat,” Beatriz confirmed about the voluntary community care the bird receives.
Despite the harmonious environment during afternoons and mornings, Milo’s excessive trust in people has exposed him to serious threats. About a month ago, park visitors raised alarms after detecting an attempted illegal removal of the bird by unknown individuals.
This situation keeps park rangers and users on constant alert, and they have organized to monitor the bird’s movements throughout the park. “They have tried to take him, and the caretaker told us we have to keep an eye on him so they don’t take him.
If we knew of anyone who wanted to take him, we should let them know. But they’re all the way over there and the vulture is all the way over here, so it’s difficult,” Beatriz warned about the challenge of watching the entire perimeter, which extends from the Malecón del Río to Boulevard Tepeyac.
It should be noted that under national law, all native wild fauna is protected by the General Wildlife Law. Capturing, holding or trafficking an animal without the required federal authorization constitutes an environmental crime regulated by Article 420 of the Federal Penal Code, with penalties ranging from 1 to 9 years in prison, in addition to severe financial fines.
In light of this situation, the park’s user community makes an urgent appeal to all visitors to enjoy the space with civility and maximum respect for the bird. They urge citizens to remain vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious behavior, attempted mistreatment or capture to police emergency lines or directly to PROFEPA, ensuring that Milo continues to fly freely and safely in the environment he has chosen as his home.
