Antioquia is a region in Colombia well known for its diverse bird population. There are over 800 species of birds in the region, and many of them are endemic to the area. Bird watchers from all over the world come to Antioquia to observe and appreciate its many colorful species.
These include species such as the Andean Condor, the Blue-crowned Parakeet, the Banded Ground-Cuckoo, the Black-cheeked Woodpecker, and the Yellow-headed Caracara, among many others.
Antioquia is also home to a wide variety of habitats, from wetlands to high-altitude grasslands, which create an ideal environment for birds to thrive.
Antioquia’s birds are an important part of the region’s culture and are celebrated through festivals and events throughout the year.
1. Acorn Woodpecker
The acorn woodpecker is a stunning species of woodpecker that is native to the western parts of North and South America. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring 21 cm in length and weighing approximately 85 g on average.
The acorn woodpecker has distinctive red, black, and white plumage, with a black crown, white forehead and nape, red face and throat, and a black-and-white barred back. Its bill and feet are black, and its eyes are a bright yellow.
The acorn woodpecker is primarily an insectivore, but it is also known to feed on nuts and seeds. The acorn woodpecker is a cavity-nester, meaning that it builds its nest in a hole in a tree, which it then lines with wood chips, bark, and other material.
They are monogamous birds, meaning that they form lifelong pairs with one mate. The acorn woodpecker is an important species, not just for its beauty, but also for its role in dispersing acorns, which are the seeds of oak trees.
It does this by caching or storing, acorns in holes in trees, which then germinate and grow. This helps to spread the oak trees, which are an important part of many ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Melanerpes |
| Species | M. formicivorus |
2. Colombian Chachalaca
The Colombian chachalaca is a species of bird belonging to the family Cracidae. It is only found in the inter-Andean valleys in Colombia, indicating that its range is restricted to this region.
These birds are arboreal in nature, spending most of their time on trees in the forest and woodland areas. They feed on fruits and other plant material, making them frugivorous. This helps them to get the nutrition they need to survive in their natural habitat.
The Colombian chachalaca has adapted well to its environment and is able to live off the resources that are available to it. It is an important part of the ecosystem, helping to maintain the balance in the inter-Andean valleys.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Cracidae |
| Genus | Ortalis |
| Species | O. columbiana |
3. Spectacled Parrotlet
The spectacled parrotlet is a species belonging to the family of psittacidae, commonly known as parrots. It is divided into three subspecies: F. c. conspicillatus, the Cauca spectacled parrotlet, and the Venezuelan spectacled parrotlet. The F. c.
conspicillatus is the most common subspecies found in the wild, mainly in South America.
The Cauca spectacled parrotlet is found in Colombia, while the Venezuelan spectacled parrotlet is native to Venezuela. The spectacled parrotlet is a small bird with a vibrant plumage of blue, green, yellow, and white.
Its most distinct feature is the white eye rings, which gives it the name “spectacled” parrotlet.
It has a short tail and a large head, giving it a stout appearance. The spectacled parrotlet is a social bird and is often found in flocks, feeding on fruits, vegetables, and insects. In the wild, they can be found in forests, savannas, woodlands, and grasslands.
In captivity, they can thrive in aviaries, although they require plenty of space to move around and socialize. The spectacled parrotlet is a popular pet bird due to its friendly nature and playful personality.
They are also relatively easy to train with patience and consistency, making them an ideal pet for bird owners. As with any pet, they require a proper diet, regular exercise, and plenty of love.
Overall, the spectacled parrotlet is a beautiful and unique bird that can make a wonderful pet. With proper care and attention, they can be a loving and entertaining companion.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
| Family | Psittacidae |
| Genus | Forpus |
| Species | F. conspicillatus |
4. Andean Cock-of-the-rock
The Andean cock-of-the-rock, scientifically known as Rupicola peruvianus, is a species of bird belonging to the cotinga family. It is endemic to South America and is found in the Andean cloud forests of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and western Brazil.
It is the national bird of Peru, and has four subspecies. The Andean cock-of-the-rock is also known as tunki in some local areas. It is a large passerine bird, with males typically having a bright orange-red breast, a gray head, and a black back and wings.
Females are generally duller in color than males, with a grayish-brown head and breast. The closest relative of the Andean cock-of-the-rock is the Guianan cock-of-the-rock, which is found in the tropical forests of Guyana and northern Brazil.
The two species are similar in appearance, but the Andean cock-of-the-rock is slightly larger, with brighter plumage. The Andean cock-of-the-rock is a solitary bird and is typically seen perched in the treetops of its habitat. It feeds on fruits, insects, and small vertebrates.
It is an important seed disperser, helping to regenerate forests. It is also a popular species for birdwatchers and is often featured in wildlife documentaries.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cotingidae |
| Genus | Rupicola |
| Species | R. peruvianus |
5. Smooth-billed Ani
The smooth-billed Ani is a species of bird belonging to the cuckoo family. It is widespread across a large area of the Americas, being found in southern Florida, the Caribbean, parts of Central America, western Ecuador, Brazil, northern Argentina, and southern Chile.
It is a resident breeding species, meaning that it builds its nests and lives in these areas all year round. The smooth-billed Ani is generally found in areas where there are open grasslands and woodlands, as well as in pastures and gardens.
It is a sociable bird, often seen in large flocks, and is able to adapt to a variety of habitats. The smooth-billed is omnivorous, feeding mainly on insects and fruit, but also eating eggs, small mammals, and lizards.
It is also known to feed on human food, such as grain, and is often seen scavenging around human settlements.
The smooth-billed Ani is a noisy bird, making loud calls, and is known for its habit of gathering in large groups and performing synchronized movements, such as flapping wings.
This species is considered to be of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature due to its large population and large distribution.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Crotophaga |
| Species | C. ani |
6. Ringed Kingfisher
The Ringed Kingfisher is an impressive bird species that can be easily spotted in many parts of the world.
This particular type of kingfisher is found in the lower Rio Grande Valley in southeast Texas in the United States, Central America, and all the way to Tierra de Fuego in South America.
It is a large bird, with a wingspan of up to 16 inches, and is known for its loud and distinctive call. Its feathers are bright blue and orange, and its head is crested with a white ring.
It is an active bird, often seen hovering over bodies of water, while it searches for fish and other prey. In addition to fishing, the Ringed Kingfisher also feeds on insects, amphibians, and reptiles.
It is a solitary bird, and usually only associates with its mate and offspring. The Ringed Kingfisher is a beautiful and exciting bird to observe, and its large population ensures that it will be seen for years to come.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Alcedinidae |
| Genus | Megaceryle |
| Species | M. torquata |
7. Orange-chinned Parakeet
The orange-chinned parakeet, also known as the Tovi parakeet, is a species of bird belonging to the subfamily Arinae of the family Psittacidae.
This family, commonly known as African and New World parrots, is made up of a variety of birds that are found on the American continent. The orange-chinned parakeet is native to a wide area, ranging from southern Mexico, through Central America, into Colombia and Venezuela.
It is a brightly colored bird, with a distinctive orange patch on its chin and a green body. It is usually found in pairs and in open areas near forests or woodlands. It feeds on fruits and seeds and is often seen at bird feeders.
This parakeet is a popular pet and is prized for its intelligence and ability to mimic speech. It is also valued for its beauty and has become a popular choice for aviaries.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
| Family | Psittacidae |
| Genus | Brotogeris |
| Species | B. jugularis |
8. Ruddy Ground Dove
The ruddy ground dove is an attractive small dove that is native to the New World tropics. It is a year-round resident in areas that range from Mexico to Brazil, Peru, Paraguay, northern Argentina, and the islands of Trinidad and Tobago.
On occasion, these birds have been seen as far north as the southwestern United States, in states such as Texas and California, but this is primarily during the winter months.
The ruddy ground dove is a fairly common bird in its native range, but it is not considered an abundant species. It is a fairly small bird, measuring only about 11-13 cm in length, with a wingspan of about 16-18 cm.
It has a ruddy brown plumage, and its bright red bill and legs are easy to distinguish. These birds are usually found in pairs or small flocks, and they have a distinctive call that is described as a ‘coo-coo’ sound.
They primarily feed on seeds and insects, and they nest in trees or shrubs near the ground.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columbina |
| Species | C. talpacoti |
9. Green Kingfisher
The Green Kingfisher is a species of water kingfisher, a type of bird that lives by water. It is part of the subfamily Cerylinae, which is a part of the family Alcedinidae.
This bird species is found in many different places, from the south of Texas in the United States down through Central America and all mainland countries in South America except for Chile. It is also found on the islands of Trinidad and Tobago.
This species can make its home in a wide variety of habitats, from wooded areas near streams and rivers to marshes and swamps. It is usually found near bodies of water, as it catches its prey there.
It has a bright green body with a blue head and wings, and a long, strong beak that helps it to catch prey. It is a small bird, usually only reaching around 6 inches in length. The Green Kingfisher is an excellent hunter and is known for its agility and quick reflexes.
It is also an important part of the food chain in many of the places it inhabits, as its diet helps to control insect populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Alcedinidae |
| Genus | Chloroceryle |
| Species | C. americana |
10. Band-tailed Pigeon
The Band-tailed Pigeon is an elegant bird native to the Americas. It is a fairly large pigeon, measuring between fourteen and sixteen inches in length. Its wingspan can stretch up to twenty-four inches.
It is easily distinguishable by its distinctive tail, which features a broad black band at the tip. The body is generally a gray-brown color with a pale pinkish-gray breast.
The head and neck are darker in color, and it has a characteristic large, white crescent-shaped mark on the side of its neck. The Band-tailed Pigeon is most often found in wooded areas, especially in the western parts of the United States and Mexico.
It feeds mainly on berries, acorns, and other seeds. It has been known to travel long distances in search of food during the winter months. During the breeding season, the Band-tailed Pigeon builds a simple nest on a tree branch.
The female typically lays two white eggs, which are incubated for around two weeks before hatching. The Band-tailed Pigeon is considered a threatened species in some parts of its range.
This is due to a combination of habitat loss, poaching, and competition with other birds for food. Conservation efforts are underway throughout its range to help protect this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Patagioenas |
| Species | P. fasciata |
11. Ruddy Pigeon
The Ruddy Pigeon is a type of bird that is found in the Americas, from Costa Rica south to western Ecuador, Bolivia, and central Brazil. It is a rather large pigeon and belongs to a clade of rather plain species of Patagioenas, which are characterized by their distinctive calls.
This subgenus of Patagioenas is known as Oenoenas. The Ruddy Pigeon is a reddish-brown color, with a lighter breasts and a darker back, and has a distinct short tail. It has yellow eyes and a black bill.
The Ruddy Pigeon is an omnivore, eating grains, seeds, fruits, and other small invertebrates. It is a social bird and is often seen in flocks, with up to a hundred birds in one group.
The Ruddy Pigeon has a high-pitched, whistling call that is often heard in the mornings and evenings. It is an important part of the ecosystem, helping to disperse and spread seeds, as well as providing prey for other animals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Patagioenas |
| Species | P. subvinacea |
12. Marbled Wood Quail
The marbled wood quail, scientifically known as Odontophorus gujanensis, is a species of bird in the family Odontophoridae, otherwise known as the New World quail.
It is native to the Central and Northern parts of South America, having an extensive distribution throughout both regions. The bird is found in a variety of habitats, most commonly in subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
The marbled wood quail is a medium-sized bird, measuring roughly 20-25 cm in length and weighing about 135-143 grams. It has a distinctive black-and-white marbled pattern on its breast and upper parts, which is the source of its common name.
The marbled wood quail is a ground-dwelling species that feeds mainly on seeds, insects, and fruits. It is generally a solitary species, but can sometimes form small flocks outside of the breeding season.
Breeding usually takes place during the rainy season and the female typically lays a clutch of around 8-12 eggs. The marbled wood quail is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN and is relatively common in parts of its range.
However, its population is thought to be declining due to ongoing habitat loss and hunting pressure.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Odontophoridae |
| Genus | Odontophorus |
| Species | O. gujanensis |
13. Antioquia Bristle Tyrant
Source: ebird.org
The Antioquia bristle tyrant is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, which is native to Colombia. It is often classified in the genus Phylloscartes.
This species inhabits subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, but its population is threatened due to habitat loss. Habitat loss is when natural habitats are destroyed or degraded due to human activities, such as deforestation, urbanization, or pollution.
This is a growing problem that affects many species of animals, plants, and other organisms. In the case of the Antioquia bristle tyrant, the destruction of lowland forests is causing a decline in its population.
This species is particularly vulnerable to habitat loss because its range is limited to a small region in Colombia. The Antioquia bristle tyrant is an important species that is integral to its local ecosystem.
Its presence helps to maintain healthy forests and to balance the food web. Unfortunately, its population is decreasing due to habitat destruction. Conservation efforts are needed to protect the remaining populations of this species and to create new habitats for them.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Pogonotriccus |
| Species | P. lanyoni |
14. Thick-billed Euphonia
The thick-billed euphonia is a small species of bird from the family Fringillidae. Previously, it had been placed in the Thraupidae family, which is a group of birds typically found in Central and South America. This species of Euphonia measures 10 cm in length.
The male has a bright yellow coloring on its underparts, from its throat to the vent, except for a small patch of white feathers on its undertail.
The upper parts of the male birds are typically olive green, and they have a bright yellow bill, which is thicker than other species of Euphonia. This species of bird is usually found in tropical forests and open woodlands, where they feed on insects, fruit, and nectar.
They are known to nest in trees or shrubs, and they are usually found in pairs or small groups.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Euphonia |
| Species | E. laniirostris |
15. Tropical Kingbird
The tropical kingbird is a large species of tyrant flycatcher found in the Americas. It is native to the United States, Central, and South America, as well as Trinidad and Tobago.
In the United States, the species breeds in regions such as southern Arizona and the lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas. In Central America, the species can be found from Mexico to Panama.
In South America, the tropical kingbird can be found as far south as central Argentina and eastern Peru. The species is an important part of the food chain in these regions, as they are important insectivores.
The species also play a role in the dispersal of fruits and seeds, helping to spread the genetic diversity of plant species in these areas. As a result, the species is considered an important species to conserve in these areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Tyrannus |
| Species | T. melancholicus |
16. Dusky Starfrontlet
The dusky starfrontlet is a species of hummingbird that is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. It belongs to the “brilliants” tribe, Heliantheini, which is a subfamily of Lesbiinae.
This species is only found in a few small areas in western Colombia and is known for its glittering colors. The dusky starfrontlet is a small bird that is mainly found in Colombia’s humid forests. It has a dark brown body and a lighter orange-brown throat.
Its wings and tail are adorned with colorful metallic feathers. Its crown is gray and its beak is black. The dusky starfrontlet feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers, including passion flowers and bromeliads. It also feeds on small insects and spiders.
It usually forages in the understory of the forests, usually between 0 and 1,400 meters in altitude. The dusky starfrontlet is considered endangered due to habitat destruction, fragmentation, and climate change.
Its population is estimated to be between 1,000 and 2,500 individuals. Conservation efforts are underway to protect the species, including the creation of protected areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Coeligena |
| Species | C. orina |
17. Rusty-margined Flycatcher
The rusty-margined flycatcher is a small species of bird that belongs to the Tyrannidae family, which is commonly known as tyrant flycatchers.
This particular species of bird is found in a wide range of locations in northern and central South America, including Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, Venezuela, and eastern Panama. The rusty-margined flycatcher is a fairly common bird, and it is known for its bright yellow and orange coloring.
It has a long tail and a unique call that can be heard throughout its range. The bird is typically found in open woodlands and savannas as well as near rivers and streams.
In these areas, the rusty-margined flycatcher feeds on small insects such as flies, moths, and other flying insects. The rusty-margined flycatcher is a popular bird amongst birdwatchers as it is relatively easy to spot and has a unique coloring and call.
The rusty-margined flycatcher is not considered to be threatened or endangered, however, their populations are thought to be declining in some areas due to habitat destruction and degradation.
It is important to protect this species and its habitat in order to ensure its continued survival in the future.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Myiozetetes |
| Species | M. cayanensis |
18. Roadside Hawk
The Roadside Hawk is a type of bird of prey found in the Americas. This species is often the most common raptor in its range, meaning it is the most common bird of prey in the area. It is considered a vocal species, meaning it is known for its distinctive call.
The Roadside Hawk also has many subspecies, meaning that there are different types of birds with different physical characteristics. This species is typically placed in the monotypic genus Rupornis, meaning that this bird is the only one in this particular genus.
This is different from its previous categorization, which was placed in the Buteo genus. The Roadside Hawk is a fascinating species that is quite common in its range and has a variety of different subspecies.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Rupornis |
| Species | R. magnirostris |
Conclusion
Antioquia is a paradise for birdwatchers. With over 1100 species of birds, it is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.
The region is home to several endemic species, including the Antioquia Brush-Finch and the Antioquia Wren, among others.
The local birdlife is diverse, and the forests of the region provide vital habitats for birds from all over the world.
Birdwatching and nature tourism are popular activities for visitors to Antioquia and are sure to provide a unique and memorable experience.