In Cauca, Colombia, birds are diverse and abundant species. The region has various habitats, from tropical and subtropical forests to grasslands, wetlands, and urban areas, all providing homes for different bird species.
Cauca is home to over 500 species of birds, many of which are endemic to the region. These include toucans, tanagers, parrots, and many other species of birds.
Birding in Cauca is a great way to explore the region’s diverse wildlife and appreciate the beauty of the region’s avian population.
23 Birds to Watch in Cauca
Cauca is a department of Colombia that lies between the Pacific coast and the Andes mountains. It is home to a rich diversity of habitats and wildlife, including many endemic and threatened bird species.
Here are 23 birds that you can watch in Cauca, some of which are found nowhere else in the world.
1. Cauca Guan
The Cauca guan is a species of bird that is part of the Cracidae family, which also includes chachalacas, guans, and curassows. It is a relatively large bird that primarily lives in humid forests, where it looks for food in fruits and leaves.
This species is native to the Cauca River valley, a geographic area in Colombia. In Spanish, the bird is known as the “pava caucana”.The Cauca guan is a unique species found only in the Cauca River valley.
It is well-adapted to life in humid forests and feeds primarily on fruits and leaves. As a species, the Cauca guan is essential for the ecosystem of the Cauca River valley, as it helps to maintain ecological balance.
The Cauca guan is also an important cultural symbol for the people of Colombia, with its Spanish name referencing its native region.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Cracidae |
| Genus | Penelope |
| Species | P. perspicax |
2. Blue-billed Curassow
The blue-billed curassow is a unique species of bird that can only be found in Colombia. It is part of the family Cracidae, which also includes other species of birds, such as chachalacas, guans, and curassows.
This bird species has a distinctive blue bill, which sets it apart from other birds in the family. It is an endemic species, only found in Colombia and nowhere else.
The blue-billed curassow is a medium-sized bird with a black head, neck, breast grayish-brown back, and wings. Its tail is long and pointed, and its legs are reddish-brown. It is found in humid and wet forests and prefers to stay near the ground.
It feeds on a variety of fruits, seeds, and insects. The blue-billed curassow is of conservation concern due to habitat loss and hunting. It is listed as vulnerable by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and Appendix I of CITES.
Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the long-term survival of this unique bird species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Cracidae |
| Genus | Crax |
| Species | C. alberti |
3. Chestnut Wood Quail
The chestnut wood quail is a species of bird found in the family Odontophoridae, known as New World quails. This quail species is only found in Colombia, distinguishing it from other species.
It has a distinct chestnut-brown body, white stripes along its sides, and a black crown and face. Additionally, its tail is short, making it different from other quail species. Its diet consists mainly of insects, seeds, and fruits found in the Colombian habitat.
The chestnut wood quail is most active during dawn and dusk when it forages for food. It prefers to live in grasslands, shrublands, and dry forests. The chestnut wood quail is a social bird, often traveling in small flocks of up to eight individuals.
It is a ground-dwelling bird and rarely takes to the air. This species can be found in pairs or small family groups during the breeding season. The International Union for Conservation of Nature considers the chestnut wood quail of the slightest concern.
This is because its population is currently stable, and there is no evidence of any significant threats to its survival. It is essential to continue to monitor the population of this species, however, as changes in its environment or habitat could threaten its future.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Odontophoridae |
| Genus | Odontophorus |
| Species | O. hyperythrus |
4. Pied-billed Grebe
The Pied-billed Grebe is a species of water bird that belongs to the Grebe family. It is the only living member of Podilymbus’s genus, as the Atitlán Grebe went extinct. This species of bird is mainly found in ponds located in the Americas.
Its habitat is primarily in wetlands, lakes, and ponds, as it feeds mainly on small fish, insects, and amphibians. The Pied-billed Grebe is a very adaptable bird that can live in fresh and salt water.
The Pied-billed Grebe is a small bird measuring 20 to 30 cm long. Its distinctive feature is its bill, a light gray color with a black band. The Pied-billed Grebe is a solitary bird that usually swims alone or with a small group.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podilymbus |
| Species | P. podiceps |
5. Yellow-billed Pintail
The yellow-billed pintail is a species of duck found in South America. It is part of the genus Anas, which includes over 40 species of ducks.
The yellow-billed pintail is one of South America’s most widespread species of duck, with three subspecies spread across the continent.
The three subspecies are the nominate subspecies, Anas georgica spinicauda, found from central Brazil to Peru; the nominate subspecies, Anas georgica georgica.
Which is found from southern Brazil to northern Argentina, and the subspecies Anas georgica flavirostris is found from north Colombia to Venezuela.
The yellow-billed pintail is a medium-sized duck with a long, slender body and yellow bill. The male has a white head and neck with a black patch on the cheek, while the female is mainly brown with a white patch at the base of the bill. Both sexes have a white patch on the wing.
The yellow-billed pintail feeds on aquatic insects, plants, and small invertebrates. It can be found in shallow marshes, flooded fields, and other wetland habitats.
The yellow-billed pintail is a common species throughout its range and is not considered a conservation concern. This species is relatively sedentary and only undertakes short-distance migrations.
The yellow-billed pintail is a popular gamebird widely hunted throughout its range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. georgica |
6. Multicoloured Tanager
The multicolored tanager is a species of bird belonging to the family Thraupidae. This species is native to the mountain regions of Colombia, where it has lived for centuries.
As of 2010, the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) has listed this species as vulnerable, meaning it is at risk of becoming endangered shortly.
The population of the multicolored tanager has been on a steady decline. It is believed that the main threats to this species include habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as illegal hunting and trapping.
Conservationists are working hard to create protected areas in the mountains of Colombia to protect the multicolored tanager. In addition, they are also raising awareness about the plight of this species to generate support for their conservation efforts.
With sufficient protection and support, the multicolored tanager is hoped to be saved from extinction.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Thraupidae |
| Genus | Chlorochrysa |
| Species | C. nitidissima |
7. Black-billed Mountain Toucan
The black-billed mountain toucan is a unique species of bird found in four countries in South America: Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. The Ramphastidae family is composed of large, brightly colored birds with large, heavy bills.
The black-billed mountain toucan is a beautiful bird with a black bill, an eye patch, and a bright yellow head. Its wings and tail are yellowish-green, and its chest and belly are light blue.
This species of toucan is usually found in mountainous regions, inhabiting the upper canopy of forests, and it feeds on fruit, insects, and lizards.
It is an excellent climber, able to reach the highest parts of the trees, and its large beak is perfect for plucking fruits from the branches. The black-billed mountain toucan is a quiet bird, but it does make a variety of loud, harsh calls that can be heard over long distances.
It is a highly social bird, often seen in groups of up to 10 birds. Overall, the black-billed mountain toucan is a remarkable bird species, both for its beauty and adaptability to its environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Ramphastidae |
| Genus | Andigena |
| Species | A. nigrirostris |
8. Crested ant Tanager
The crested ant tanager is a bird species belonging to the bird family known as Cardinalidae. This species of bird is native to Colombia, meaning that it is found nowhere else in the world.
The crested ant tanager is usually found in humid forests, typically near water sources. It has a distinctive crest of feathers on its head, giving it its name.
This species usually has a dull yellow-brown color but can also vary from yellow to grayish-green, depending on the specific subspecies. It has a black mask around its eyes and an orange-red bill.
The crested ant tanager feeds mainly on insects but will also eat some fruits and berries. It is an essential pollinator in Colombian forests and feeds on flower nectar.
Due to its importance in the ecosystem, the crested ant tanager is an essential species in its natural habitat. Its presence helps maintain the health of the Colombian forests, and it plays a critical role in the food web.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Habia |
| Species | H. cristata |
9. Chestnut-winged Chachalaca
The chestnut-winged chachalaca is a bird species found exclusively in Colombia. It is part of the Cracidae family, including chachalacas, guans, and curassows. This bird species is a medium-sized bird with a brown body, pale head, and chestnut wings.
Its diet consists mainly of fruits, seeds, and flowers. It is also known to eat insects and other small invertebrates. It generally lives in small flocks of up to 20 birds and can be found in forests, shrublands, and other areas with dense vegetation.
They have a loud call that sounds like “chak-a-lak-a” and are also known to make other loud, raucous sounds. Due to the destruction of its habitat, the chestnut-winged chachalaca is classified as a vulnerable species.
Conservation efforts must be implemented to protect this species and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Cracidae |
| Genus | Ortalis |
| Species | O. garrula |
10. Pale-vented Pigeon
The pale-vented pigeon is a species of large pigeon native to the tropical regions of the Americas. Historically, it was often classified within the Columba genus alongside other species of pigeons.
However, recent research has revealed that the pale-vented pigeon belongs to the genus Patagioenas.
This genus is much older than the Columba genus. It is part of the more considerable evolutionary radiation of birds that have adapted to the warm-temperate tropical regions of the Americas.
This radiation includes many closely related species of birds, as well as the pale-vented pigeon. Therefore, it is clear that the pale-vented pigeon has an evolutionary history that is intertwined with many other species of birds in the Americas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Patagioenas |
| Species | P. cayennensis |
11. Orinoco Goose
The Orinoco goose is a species of waterfowl classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. It belongs to the Tadornini tribe of the Anserinae subfamily.
This species can be found in most South American countries, except Chile, French Guiana, Suriname, and Uruguay.
Its native range includes the Amazon, Orinoco, and Patagonia basins. The Orinoco goose is a large goose species, with adults reaching up to 90 cm in length. They have brown-grey plumage, a white head and neck, and a black breast and belly.
Their bills are black, and their legs and feet are orange. They feed on aquatic vegetation, grains, seeds, and insects. The Orinoco goose is an important species of waterfowl, as it helps to maintain the balance of wetland ecosystems.
They are also important to local cultures, having been used for centuries by the indigenous people of the Amazon. Despite this, their populations have declined recently due to habitat destruction, hunting, and other human activities.
As a result, the species is now classified as Near Threatened. Therefore, it is essential to protect this species to ensure its long-term survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Neochen |
| Species | N. jubata |
12. White-cheeked Pintail
The white-cheeked pintail, also known as the Bahama pintail or summer duck, is a species of dabbling duck found in warm, tropical climates. It is a medium-sized duck with a grey-brown body, a white face, and a long, thin, black tail.
Carl Linnaeus first described the white-cheeked pintail in his landmark 1758 10th edition of Systema Naturae, the most critical work in the history of scientific classification.
Linnaeus gave the white-cheeked pintail its scientific name, Anas bahamensis, which is still used today. This duck species is a famous game bird hunted by recreational and commercial hunters.
Many birders also keep the white-cheeked pintail as a pet, which can be found in private ponds and aviaries.
The white-cheeked pintail is an important species to the ecosystem, as it helps to control the population of other aquatic species, such as snails, crustaceans, and insects.
The species is also an important food source for predators, including raptors, mammals, and reptiles.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. bahamensis |
13. Highland Tinamou
The highland tinamou, Bonaparte’s tinamou, is a ground bird species found in montane moist forests. It can typically be located at a high altitude of 1,500 meters or higher.
This bird species is found in tropical and subtropical climates and prefers locations with plenty of vegetation and shade. The highland tinamou has unique features that enable it to adapt quickly to its mountainous environment.
It has a short, rounded bill, short legs, and a rounded tail. Its feathers are usually brown or gray, and its head is usually a darker shade than its body. It also has a distinctive behavior of constantly running on the ground when disturbed or scared.
The diet of the highland tinamou consists primarily of fruits, seeds, and small insects. They also supplement their diet by foraging for small invertebrates, such as snails, spiders, and worms.
The highland tinamou is an essential species in the ecosystem of the montane moist forests, providing food for predators and helping to disperse seeds of native plants.
As such, it is essential to ensure that these areas remain undisturbed and protected to maintain populations of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Tinamiformes |
| Family | Tinamidae |
| Genus | Nothocercus |
| Species | N. bonapartei |
14. Blue-bearded Helmetcrest
The blue-bearded helmet crest is a rare species of hummingbird found exclusively in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta of northern Colombia. It belongs to Trochilidae, subfamily Lesbiinae, and tribe Lesbiini, commonly known as the coquettes.
This hummingbird species has a unique feature: its crest is blue, which is why it is called the blue-bearded helmet crest. The blue-bearded helmet crest is currently classified as Critically Endangered according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
This is primarily due to habitat loss and degradation due to human activities such as logging, agricultural expansion, and mining.
The blue-bearded Helmetcrest depends on the Sierra Nevada’s high-altitude grasslands for its survival, but these areas are quickly disappearing.
As a result, the population of this species is rapidly declining. Conservation efforts are underway to protect the blue-bearded Helmetcrest and its habitat.
Local communities are encouraged to protect the remaining grasslands in the Sierra Nevada and promote sustainable development practices. In addition, research is being conducted to better understand the species’ ecology and habitat needs.
With concerted effort, there is hope that the blue-bearded Helmetcrest can be saved from extinction.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Oxypogon |
| Species | O. cyanolaemus |
15. Northern Pintail
The pintail or northern pintail is a species of duck found throughout a large geographical area. It breeds in northern Europe, the Palearctic, and North America.
During the winter, the pintail migrates to areas much further south, down to the equator. This wide-ranging duck species thrives in habitats such as marshes, lakes, and ponds, and it feeds on aquatic plants, insects, and crustaceans.
It is a graceful bird characterized by its long neck and long, pointed tail. The male has a chocolate-brown head and a gray body, while the female has a mottled brown body. The pintail is an essential species in wetlands, as it helps to keep aquatic vegetation in check.
It is also an important game bird for hunters.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. acuta |
16. Sickle-winged Guan
The Sickle-winged Guan is a species of bird that is part of the Cracidae family, which includes the Chachalaca, Guan, and Curassow birds. It is found in various locations throughout South America, such as Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
The Sickle-winged Guan is a medium-sized bird, measuring between 40 and 45 cm long and weighing 250 and 300 grams. Its distinctive features include a small, pointed bill, a dark brown body, yellowish-green wings, and a bright yellowish-orange patch on the lower back.
The Sickle-winged Guan is primarily a fruit eater, with its diet consisting of berries, seeds, and other fruits. It also feeds on insects, lizards, and small mammals. The Sickle-winged Guan prefers to live in the dense forests of the Andes mountain range.
It is a solitary bird, usually found in pairs and typically nests in tree cavities. It is classified as near threatened by the IUCN due to habitat loss and hunting.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Cracidae |
| Genus | Chamaepetes |
| Species | C. goudotii |
17. Ruddy Pigeon
The Ruddy Pigeon is a species of bird belonging to the genus Patagioenas, comprised of smaller and relatively plain-looking pigeons.
This species is found in the tropical climates of Central and South America, from Costa Rica south to western Ecuador, Bolivia, and central Brazil. It is a rather large pigeon with a characteristic call that sets it apart from other species within the same subgenus, Oenoenas.
This call is a short, sharp whistle likened to a toy rattle’s sound. The Ruddy Pigeon is an essential species in the ecosystem, as they are a primary food source for many predators, including hawks, falcons, and owls.
They are also crucial for seed dispersal, helping to spread various plants and trees throughout their range. The species is currently listed as least Concerned by the IUCN, meaning its population is stable and not threatened.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Patagioenas |
| Species | P. subvinacea |
18. Scaled Pigeon
The Scaled Pigeon is a species of tropical dove found in the New World. It is a resident breeding species, meaning it reproduces in the same area all year round and is found in southern Mexico, western Ecuador, south Brazil, northern Argentina, and Trinidad.
This bird is relatively common in semi-open forests, preferring to make its home in areas with a mixture of open areas and trees. To make its nest, the Scaled Pigeon builds a platform out of sticks in the trees and typically lays two white eggs in it.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Patagioenas |
| Species | P. speciosa |
19. Gray headed Chachalaca
The grey-headed chachalaca is a unique bird species belonging to the family Cracidae, an ancient group of birds that dates back millions of years. This bird is found in Central and South American forests, ranging from Honduras to Colombia.
It is closely related to other members of the Cracidae family, such as the chachalacas, guans, and curassows, which are all found in the same regions. The grey-headed chachalaca is most easily identified by its grey head, distinguishing it from its other family members.
The grey-headed chachalaca is an omnivorous species that eats plant matter and small animals. Its diet consists of fruits, leaves, insects, and small reptiles, which it forages for on the forest floor.
It is a terrestrial bird that spends most of its time on the ground. It is also a vocal species, with a loud call that can be heard from a great distance. The grey-headed chachalaca is an important species in its native range, playing an essential role in the ecosystem.
It helps to control insect populations and disperse seeds, aiding the natural regeneration of plants and trees in the area. It is a social species, usually found in small groups, and can often be seen foraging together.
The grey-headed chachalaca is an important species in its native range, and its conservation is essential to the local ecosystem’s health. Unfortunately, the species is threatened by habitat destruction and hunting.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect the species from further decline and to ensure its future in its native range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Cracidae |
| Genus | Ortalis |
| Species | O. cinereiceps |
20. Eared Dove
The eared dove is a species native to the New World or the Americas. It is a widespread bird, found in South America from Colombia to southern Argentina and Chile and some islands from the Grenadines southwards.
It may be a relatively recent colonist to the islands of Tobago and Trinidad. The eared dove is a medium-sized dove, typically measuring 12–13 inches in length, with a wingspan of 17–19 inches.
Its head, neck, and upper breast are greyish-brown, while its lower breast and belly are sandy-brown. Its wings are also dark brown, and the tail is tipped with white. It has a distinctive white patch behind its eye, which gives it its name.
The eared dove is a ground-dwelling species in forests, woodlands, shrubland, and grassland habitats. It feeds mainly on seeds, small insects, and other invertebrates.
It is a monogamous species and breeds throughout the year in tropical regions, while in temperate areas, it usually breeds in spring and summer. Its nest is a flimsy platform of twigs, which is built in a tree or bush.
The female usually lays two white eggs, which both parents incubate for 14–17 days. The eared dove is a common bird whose population is considered stable. It is not threatened or endangered and is listed by the IUCN as of Least Concern.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Zenaida |
| Species | Z. auriculata |
21. Blue Ground-Dove
The blue-ground dove is a species of bird native to the tropical regions of the Americas. It is a small, slender dove with a mottled blue-gray plumage and a bright red bill. It is a resident breeder who lives in the same area year-round and breeds in that area.
It is found in southeastern Mexico, extending down to northwestern Peru and northern Argentina, as well as on the Caribbean island of Trinidad. It prefers moist tropical forests and is often found near rivers and streams.
The blue ground dove feeds mainly on seeds and eats insects and other small invertebrates. It builds its nest in trees near a stream or other water source.
The blue ground dove is integral to its local ecosystem and a food source for local predators.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Claravis |
| Species | C. pretiosa |
22. Apolinar’s Wren
Apolinar’s wren is a small bird species belonging to the family Troglodytidae. This species is native to Colombia, meaning it can only be found there and is not present anywhere else.
It is a passerine bird, a type of perching bird that includes many common songbirds and is the most diverse group of birds on the planet. Apolinar’s wren is a unique species only found in Colombia, making it an essential part of the country’s biodiversity.
Bird lovers must be aware of this species and its unique status in Colombia, as it is an integral part of the natural environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Troglodytidae |
| Genus | Cistothorus |
| Species | C. apolinari |
23. Beautiful Woodpecker
The woodpecker is a beautiful species of bird that belongs to the subfamily Picinae of the woodpecker family Picidae. This species of bird is endemic to Colombia, meaning it is only found there and nowhere else in the world.
The woodpecker is a unique bird with distinct coloring and markings, and it is a joy to behold. It is most commonly seen in wooded areas, but can also be seen in open areas. Its diet consists mainly of insects, but it eats fruit, nectar, and sap.
The woodpecker is an integral part of the Colombian ecosystem as it helps to keep insect and other small animal populations in check. This bird species is also a great source of entertainment for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
The woodpecker is an excellent example of how a species can be unique and beautiful yet still crucial to the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Melanerpes |
| Species | M. pulcher |
Conclusion
Birds in Cauca are a vital part of the region’s biodiversity. They provide essential services such as pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control, making them an integral part of the ecosystem.
Local conservation efforts have helped to protect many of the species found in the region, and as a result, the bird populations in Cauca are relatively healthy.
Despite this, the threats of habitat destruction and climate change continue to loom, and further measures must be taken to ensure the long-term survival of the area’s avian species.