We’ve already discussed Colombia’s incredible richness in orchids, but it’s equally unmatched when it comes to birds. Colombia holds the top spot globally in bird diversity (ahead of Peru), boasting a little over 1,900 recorded species—nearly four times the total bird fauna of the European Union! Among these, 82 species are endemic, found nowhere else in the world.
Colombia is increasingly recognized as a “must-visit” destination in the birding world. This is especially true since it claimed the top spot in the Global Big Day competition. This global event challenges birdwatchers in every country to observe as many bird species as possible within 24 hours. Teams of observers organize themselves to cover strategic locations, aiming for the most comprehensive count of local bird species, which they then upload to the eBird platform.
Typically, Peru or Brazil has dominated the competition, but things changed in 2017. Colombia’s peace agreements opened up previously inaccessible sites (forests, coastal areas, páramos, and more), and both Colombians and international tourists can now visit these areas.
Given that the Colombian government has made tourism one of its five key economic development priorities—particularly nature tourism—many young people have taken up ecotourism as a career. They explore the country to identify promising birding sites, guiding foreign visitors eager to spot endemic or rare species, which can often be observed more easily here than in neighboring countries.
This unprecedented enthusiasm has turned birdwatching into something akin to a national sport, leading to the discovery of bird species previously unrecorded in Colombia.
Colombia’s ornithological studies also have a long history. Many scientists have trained in this biodiverse nation, fostering growing interest and producing countless researchers.
During the May 5, 2018, Global Big Day, Colombia was determined to defend the title it claimed in 2017—and went all out to do so. The buzz was palpable as teams meticulously organized to maximize their chances of securing victory. Even the Tourist Police joined the effort, collaborating with bird conservation associations to provide logistical support—transportation, accommodations, and meals—at remote birding sites.
On May 8, 2018, after all the eBird lists were tallied, the results were in:
Mission accomplished! Colombia retained its title, finishing ahead of Peru and Ecuador. Interestingly, the United States came in 8th place, with only 46% of Colombia’s species count but submitting ten times as many lists, thanks to a much larger number of observers.
While Ecuador and Peru still earned spots on the podium, both are eager to claim gold next year.
In the meantime, grab your binoculars and start counting birds in your garden, in the woods, at the beach, or in Colombia or Ecuador to prepare for Global Big Day 2019.
By David Haelterman, a specialized guide for birding and wildlife tours in Colombia.
Photo credits: David Haelterman and Murray Cooper
