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Otún Quimbaya Flora and Fauna Sanctuary: A Birder's Paradise photo by Garrett Huffman (via Flickr)

Otún Quimbaya Flora and Fauna Sanctuary: A Birder's Paradise

by : Becky Johnson posted :
Red howler monkey
Red howler monkey

Colombia is not only an adventure traveler's playground but a birder's paradise. Did you know that Colombia leads the world in avian diversity, containing approximately 20% of all the birds species on earth? Professional and amateur birdwatchers hoping to observe some of the most unique birds on the planet should consider Colombia as the ultimate travel destination and bird lover's paradise. Not only is travel to (and within) Colombia affordable, destinations like the Otún Quimbaya Fauna and Flora Sanctuary are perfect for those interested in eco-tourism.

A slice of paradise

Nestled on the western slopes of the Central Andes, and at the heart of the coffee-growing region, this small slice of paradise is home to more than 300 species of bird, several types of orchids, and a variety of other plants and animals. Originally established in 1996 as water reserve, this 1200 acre park is now a shining example of focused conservation efforts. A beautiful mosaic of old and new forest is a testament to this preservation work, and these forested canopies now offer a safe haven to the plants and animals within, such as the red howler monkey.

Nimble musicians of the air

For those who get a thrill from a pair of binoculars and the opportunity to spy a rare bird, there is no better location than the Otún Quimbaya Fauna and Flora Sanctuary. They welcome and encourage bird watchers, and video and photography are allowed in the park, though there is a small licensing fee for commercial photography. Walk one of the trails throughout the sanctuary, find a perching spot of your own, and observe "Those little nimble musicians of the air, that warble forth their curious ditties, with which nature hath furnished them to the shame of art." - Izaak Walton

Andean cock-of-the-rock photo by Garrett Huffman (via Flickr)
Andean cock-of-the-rock

Andean cock-of-the-rock

One of the most striking birds you will find in the sanctuary is the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, which gets it's name from its nesting habits - muddy capped nests on rocky outcroppings. Easily identifiable for its unusual fan-shaped crest and brilliant orange plumage, it also has a distinctive, low, guttural croaking sound. Like many birds, the female is smaller and more of a dull brown. This bird ranges into Peru, and is also the national bird there.


Multicolored tanager photo by Sebastian Moreno (via Flickr)
Multicolored tanager

Chlorochrysa nitidissima

Commonly known as the multi-colored tanager, this stunning little beauty is endemic to Colombia and sadly, is endangered. It prefers to reside in mossy forests with elevations that range between 1300-2200 meters. Females are similar in size, but are not quite as colorful, lacking the brilliant yellow mantle. Deforestation is the primary cause of their dwindling population, which makes conservation efforts even more crucial.


Golden-plumed parakeet photo by Marka Harper (via Flickr)
Golden-plumed parakeet

Golden-plumed parakeet

No trip to a tropical paradise would be complete without a glimpse of this beautiful member of the parrot family. Making their homes in the cloud forests of the Andean region, this nomadic bird is also a vulnerable species due to loss of habitat. The golden-plumed parakeet is the only long-tailed parrot found within its range, which stretches into Peru. This species breeds in February in Colombia, and make their nests in wax palms, the national tree.


Catch a glimpse of these winged-wonders and many more on Uncharted Colombia's Coffee and Mountains tour and other tours in Manizales and Los Nevados.

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