Birdwatching in Peru is one of the best things a birdwatcher can experience. Indeed, this place offers an ideal setting not only for the discovery of magnificent fauna and flora but also for the discovery of a landscape endowed with almost everything that nature has to offer.
After Colombia, Peru is the country with the greatest variety of bird species available. Due to its unique topography and strategic geography, Peru provides an ideal habitat for many birds from almost all parts of the world.
Studies show that there are almost 2000 species of birds in Peru. Ornithologists - people who conduct scientific studies of the life of wild and domestic birds. They study and record their anatomy, behavior, evolution, ecology, classification, and distribution of species.
They claim that nearly 19% of all bird species in the world and nearly 50% of neo-tropical birds are found in Peru. The country also offers pristine forests that provide a perfect habitat for rare species of birds and animals.
The Best Places for Birdwatching in Peru
Knowing the rich variety of birds present in the country, no birdwatcher can resist the urge to visit the country. But before packing your bags and your binoculars, it is essential that you first do a brief research on the country in order to optimize your stay. In your research, you should include the list of things you need and the best places to conduct the activity. Here are some of the best places to watch birds in Peru:
1. Paracas National Reserve
It is considered one of the most spectacular and practical places for birdwatching in Peru. Located in Lima, this reserve in Paracas can be reached after almost 4 hours. Common birds that can be seen in the area are Humboldt Current, Pisco, Dark-faced Ground Tyrant, Peruvian Thick-knee, and Tawny-throated Dotterel.
2. Lomas de Lachay National Reserve
You can reach this place if you travel almost 100 km north of the capital, Lima. If you like birdwatching during the day, this is the place for you as it can only accommodate a small number of people. Although it is quite remote, the trip is well worth it as you will find rare species of Thick-billed Mineros and Yellow Finches here.
3. The Marcapomacocha
This region is almost a five-hour drive from the capital. But the trip will really delight diehard bird watchers as the place offers the sight of some of the world's rarest bird species including different breeds of Andean species, sandpipers, the magnificent Bellied Cinclodes white, and the black-breasted Hillstar which is really popular in the country.
You can also enjoy off-road views of the Giant Coot located in Lake Marcapomacocha, Lake Junin, Huلnuco, and the Carpist Range. (TIP: Be sure to bring plenty of water when you go to these places as the weather can be very hot and cause dehydration).
4. Huascarln Biosphere Reserve
Located in Huarلz in the central Andes, the reserve can be reached after almost 10 hours of driving. Before arriving at the place where the rare White-cheeked Cotinga, different kinds of finches, and Andean condors can be found, you will cross mountain ranges and breathtaking lakes.
5. The Chiclayo-Cajamarca circuit
Peruvian birdwatching can never be complete without visiting this establishment, as here you can see the most legendary and rare bird species that can only be seen in Peru, including the Eastern Chaffinch. the long mustache owl, Inca with buff easel, the marvelous spatula tail, and the crescent maraٌon.