A cenote is a natural sinkhole formed when porous limestone bedrock collapses and exposes groundwater underneath. These cenotes become natural swimming fresh water pools that are so clear and pure a person can see the fish and plant life below. Open-air cenotes are also often rich in plant life and algae that is rich with vitamins and minerals which lend nourishment and protection to human skin. Some cenotes are partially covered cave like structures where bats make their homes. They are often covered with stalactites and root systems from the fig and ficus trees above ground and searching for a water source. Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula is home of many cenotes and while in Cancun my travel companion and I took a day to explore some cenotes. Our guide explained how the Mayans settled their villages around these cenotes because they believed spirits who were portals to the gods lived there. Visiting the cenotes we could easily understand why the Mayans were in awe. When the sunlight would hit the cenote sending shafts of light though the pristine waters, the effect was truly magical. The Mayans also believed the call of the "clock birds" would always lead them to fresh water. Yucatana' own bird of paradise, the turquoise-browed motmot is often seen.
Motmot
Just outside the cenotes in the trees of the jungle was spotted this handsome bird often called the "clock bird" due to its disc-shaped tail feathers that resemble a clock's pendulum. The cenotes are home to so much beauty they are a must see if you ever get to that part of the world. www.lakehousesupplies.com
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