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Birdwatching

A true paradise for birds

The combination of geographical, climate and evolutionary factors mean that there are 1,830 different bird species in Peru (according to the official lists of SACC/CRAP), which makes it an exceptional place for birdwatching

Peru is the second of the twelve megadiverse countries. 70% of the biological diversity of the planet is concentrated within its borders. According to the Holdridge classification, it has 84 of the 117 zones of life registered on the earth. Its location in the central-west of the South American continent, the two currents that feed its coasts and the presence of the Andes Mountains create the ideal conditions for such diversity

There is also huge potential for future scientific discoveries at species and subspecies level in areas of the country that are relatively inaccessible and that, as a result of their isolation, may add new records of species not previously known.

Peru has more bird species than North America and Europe put together. It records the largest number of endemic species in the world (more than 120). Over the past three decades an average of two new species has been discovered each year.

The largest flying bird in the world (the Andean Condor -Vulturgriphus) is found in Peru, as well as the second smallest bird on the planet (Short-tailed Hummingbird -Myrmiamicrura).

Our country holds the world record for the largest number of birds observed in one day without the use of motorized vehicles. This was a total of 331 birds spotted in the Biological Station of Cocha Cashu, in Manu National Park. The record was set by Ted A. Parker III and Scott Robinson in 1982.

Three principal birdwatching routes have been developed that allow birdwatchers to cover a great many zones of life, crossing the country from west to east in the form of transects at different altitudes, with the corresponding variation in birdlife. It is possible to record lists of several hundred species on each trip.

Global Big Day

Global Big Day, a competition organized by eBird and Cornell University (United States), was created with the goal of dedicating a full day to the promotion of bird watching internationally. Each country participating must collectively identify as many birds as possible. This activity represents a serious commitment to the conservation of these species and to the preservation of the diversity of birdlife.

Big Day

The large number of bird species in Peru means that it is possible to organize Big Days special birdwatching events. Protected natural areas are made accessible so that visitors can take part in this special type of nature tourism and at the same time enjoy the amazing landscapes found in these areas.

Birding Rally Challengue 2013

The following video shows the participation of visitors during the birdwatching event. Thanks to the large number of species found in the country, Peru is one of the best countries in the world for birdwatching.

Observation routes

Climatic, geographic and evolutionary factors make Peru the best place for birdwatching. There are over 1 830 different species. Various routes have been created that cover a large number of life zones, crossing the whole country. New bird species are still being found today.

North Route

Blackish-headed Spinetail

This bird lives in the American continent and can be seen in Tumbes at an altitude of between 400 and 750 metres.

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White-winged Guan

This slender bird, with a long neck and tail, has black and white plumage.

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Central Route

Thick-billed Miner

This is an endemic species that lives in the coastal area of Peru, its preferred habitats being meadows and open spaces on mountains and semi-desert ecosystems.

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Cactus Canastero

This small bird of around 14 centimetres long is endemic to Peru and found on the most arid mountainsides of Lima and Arequipa.

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Southern Route

Grey-breasted Mountain-Toucan

These birds inhabit the Andean forests of Colombia, Ecuador and Peru at an altitude of between 2400 and 3400 metres.

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Andean Cock-of-the-rock

Regarded as the national bird of Peru, it is characterized by its brightly-coloured plumage.

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10 more birds observed

See all the leading birds

Gray-Backed Hawk

The grey-backed hawk lives in open, marshy woods and is only found in Central and South America.

Blackish-headed Spinetail

This bird lives in the American continent and can be seen in Tumbes at an altitude of between 400 and 750 metres.

White-winged Guan

This slender bird, with a long neck and tail, has black and white plumage.

Elegant Crescentchest

The elegant crescentcrest is a small bird that lives in scrubland and forages among leafy shrubs.

Peruvian Plantcutter

This is a medium-sized bird which is generally spotted perched in an upright position.

Superciliated Wren

Found in the Andes cordillera, this bird is regarded as an expert in singing duets with its mate.

Thick-billed Miner

This is an endemic species that lives in the coastal area of Peru, its preferred habitats being meadows and open spaces on mountains and semi-desert ecosystems.