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From Crest to Tail: A Detailed Exploration of Abancay’s 22 Notable Bird Species

Welcome to the fascinating world of birds in Abancay! Here in the Peruvian province of Abancay, you will find an array of diverse and exciting birds. This region offers a wide variety of bird species, from the majestic Andean Condors to the colorful Parakeets.

Abancay is home to some of the most unique and rare species of birds in the world, such as the Torrent Ducks and the Giant Coots. It is also a great place to observe the many migratory species that pass through the area in the spring and fall.

Whether you are a bird enthusiast or just curious about the avian life in Abancay, this introduction will provide an overview of the birds that live and visit this area.

22 Birds to Watch in Abancay

If you are a bird lover, you will be amazed by the diversity and beauty of the birds in Abancay, Peru. This region is home to some of the most unique and rare species of birds in the world and many migratory visitors. Here are 22 birds that you can watch in Abancay.

1. White-tufted Grebe

The white-tufted grebe, scientifically known as Rolland’s grebe, is a species of aquatic bird belonging to the family Podicipedidae. It is native to the southern half of South America, which includes countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay.

These birds prefer to inhabit freshwater lakes, ponds, and sluggish streams. The white-tufted grebe is a medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 40 centimeters long. Its feathers are mostly brown, with white patches on its face, neck, and chest.

The bird is named for its distinctive white tufts of feathers found on its forehead. It has bright, red eyes and a long, slender bill. The diet of the white-tufted grebe consists mainly of fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects.

They will also eat aquatic plants and small amphibians, such as frogs and tadpoles. To find their food, the birds dive underwater, using their sharp eyesight to locate prey. The white-tufted grebe is a social species, often seen in flocks of up to hundreds of birds.

During the breeding season, the birds form pairs and build nests on the edges of lakes, ponds, and streams. Both parents participate in incubating and caring for their young.

Overall, the white-tufted grebe is a unique species that plays a vital role in the aquatic ecosystems of South America. Its presence indicates a healthy marine environment, requiring clean and plentiful water resources to survive.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPodicipediformes
FamilyPodicipedidae
GenusRollandia
SpeciesR. rolland

2. Andean Goose

The Andean goose is a species of waterfowl belonging to the Tadornini tribe of the Anserinae subfamily. This goose species is most commonly found in South America, particularly Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru.

They are typically quite large birds, with a wingspan of up to 82 cm, and their feathers are predominantly grey and white with a brownish hue. The Andean goose is an integral part of the wetlands of South America, where it can be found near lakes, rivers, and marshes.

It is a relatively common species and is not currently listed as endangered. Its diet consists mainly of aquatic plants, insects, and small fish. The Andean goose is an integral part of South American ecosystems and is essential to ensure its continued survival.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusChloephaga
SpeciesC. melanoptera

3. Andean Tinamou

The Andean tinamou is a species of bird found in South America. It is a member of the tinamou family, a group of ground-dwelling birds native to the Americas.

The Andean tinamou is one of the most common tinamou species and is found in high-altitude shrubland in the mountain ranges of the Andes.

The species is most commonly found at 2000 to 4000 meters above sea level elevations but can be seen as low as 1500 meters and as high as 5000 meters. It prefers to inhabit areas with dense shrubs and grasses, such as bamboo thickets and low-lying brush.

The Andean tinamou is a terrestrial bird and spends most of its time foraging for food on the ground. It feeds mainly on insects, small lizards, other invertebrates, and berries, fruits, and seeds.

The Andean tinamou is an important species in the food webs of the Andes, and its presence is essential for maintaining the health of the high-altitude shrubland ecosystems.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderTinamiformes
FamilyTinamidae
GenusNothoprocta
SpeciesN. pentlandii

4. Spot-winged Pigeon

The Spot-winged Pigeon (Columba maculosa) is a bird species in the Columbidae family. It is native to South America and can be found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay.

This species is characterized by its small size and subtle mottled grey-brown plumage.

Its most distinctive feature is the white spots on the wings, which give it its name. The Spot-winged Pigeon is generally found in open grassland and savanna habitats, but it can also be found in woodlands, scrub, and farmland.

This species is relatively standard but is declining in some areas due to habitat loss and hunting.

It feeds mainly on seeds, grain, and nests in low trees or shrubs. The Spot-winged Pigeon is similar to the closely related Picazuro Pigeon but can be distinguished by its smaller size, darker plumage, and the white spots on its wings.

It is also known to hybridize with the Picazuro Pigeon in some areas.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderColumbiformes
FamilyColumbidae
GenusPatagioenas
SpeciesP. maculosa

5. Yellow-billed Pintail

Yellow-billed_pintail__5

The yellow-billed pintail is a species of duck found in South America. It is a member of the genus Anas, which is part of the Anatidae family and is closely related to other ducks, such as mallards, teals, and wigeons.

The yellow-billed pintail is recognizable by its yellow bill and slender body.

It has three distinct subspecies: the Southern yellow-billed pintail, the Central yellow-billed pintail, and the Northern yellow-billed pintail. The Southern yellow-billed pintail is found in southern Brazil, Uruguay, and northern Argentina.

It has a rich chestnut color on its chest and head, with black wings and a distinctive yellow bill. The Central yellow-billed pintail is found in Paraguay and northern Argentina. It has a grayish-brown chest and head, black wings, and a yellow bill.

The Northern yellow-billed pintail is found from western Peru to southern Venezuela.

It has a dark brown chest and head, black wings, and a yellow bill. The yellow-billed pintail is a dabbling duck, meaning it feeds by tipping its head into the water and upending to reach for food. It typically feeds on aquatic plants, such as algae and marine invertebrates.

It forms large flocks and can be seen in wetlands, marshes, and shallow lakes. The yellow-billed pintail is an essential species in its South American range, and its conservation status is of concern.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusAnas
SpeciesA. georgica

6. Pied-billed Grebe

Pied-billed_grebe__6

The pied-billed grebe is a species of bird belonging to the grebe family. It is the only living species in the genus Podilymbus, as its close relative, the Atitlán grebe, became extinct. This bird can be found in ponds and other aquatic habitats across the Americas.

Its name is derived from the distinctive black stripes on its bill. The pied-billed grebe is a small bird, ranging in size from 9 to 11 inches in length and about 12 ounces in weight.

It has a brownish-gray back, a white underside, and a black stripe running down the middle of its bill. The bird’s eyes are enormous, and its feet are solid and webbed. The pied-billed grebe feeds on small fish, crustaceans, aquatic insects, and amphibians.

It dives below the water’s surface and uses its feet as paddles to propel itself. It can remain underwater for up to 30 seconds while searching for food. The pied-billed grebe has some interesting nesting habits.

It builds its nest at the edges of shallow waters and lines it with vegetation. It uses its bill to dig into the mud and make a floating nest when nesting. The female usually lays four or five eggs, and both parents take turns incubating them.

The pied-billed grebe is a bird species adapted to its aquatic environment. It has adapted to the changing environment of its habitats in the Americas and has proven to be an essential part of the local ecosystems.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPodicipediformes
FamilyPodicipedidae
GenusPodilymbus
SpeciesP. podiceps

7. White-cheeked Pintail

The white-cheeked pintail, also known as the Bahama pintail or summer duck, is a species of dabbling duck belonging to the Anatidae family. It is a migratory bird native to the Caribbean Islands and Central and South America.

The white-cheeked pintail has a distinctive white mark on its cheek and a greyish-brown body. Its head is darker than its body, and its wings are light grey. The males have a long, black tail with a distinctive white patch on the underside.

The Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus first described the white-cheeked pintail in his landmark 1758 10th edition of Systema Naturae. In this book, he classified the species under its current scientific name: Anas bahamensis.

Since then, many ornithologists and birders have studied and observed the species. The white-cheeked pintail is a common duck species, but its population has declined due to human-induced habitat destruction and hunting.

The species is listed as a species of most minor concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, its population is still declining, and it is believed to become endangered in the future.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusAnas
SpeciesA. bahamensis

8. Taczanowski’s Tinamou

Taczanowski’s tinamou is a ground bird species belonging to the Tinamidae family. It is found in the eastern Andes mountains of Peru, in the Junín, Cuzco, Apurímac, Ayacucho, and Puno regions. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 28 cm in length.

Its plumage is mainly brown with white streaks on the head and neck, and it has a black bill and yellow eyes. It inhabits grasslands, shrublands, and agricultural lands and is usually seen in pairs or small groups.

It is primarily a terrestrial species capable of short flights when disturbed. Its diet consists mainly of seeds, fruits, and invertebrates. Its population is believed to be declining due to habitat destruction and hunting, and it is listed as vulnerable by the IUCN.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderTinamiformes
FamilyTinamidae
GenusNothoprocta
SpeciesN. taczanowskii

9. Great Tinamou

The great tinamou is a ground bird species native to Central and South America. It belongs to the tinamou family of birds, which includes approximately 47 species.

This particular species is known for its distinctive size and shape, with a long tail and a short, rounded body. It also stands out for its gorgeous coloration, which varies between the different subspecies.

These subspecies can be identified by their distinct colors, ranging from deep browns to blues and greens. The great tinamou is known to inhabit various habitats, from lowland rainforests to open grasslands, and is often found near streams and open areas.

It is an omnivore, meaning it feeds on various things, including seeds, fruits, and small invertebrates. It is also known to perform a courtship ritual involving singing and displaying its vibrant feathers.

The great tinamou is an integral part of the ecosystem, as it helps to spread seeds and other plant material, which aids in the regeneration of forests and other habitats.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderTinamiformes
FamilyTinamidae
GenusTinamus
SpeciesT. major

10. Great Grebe

The great grebe (Podiceps major) is the largest species of grebe found in the world. Its main distribution ranges from extreme southeastern Brazil to Patagonia and central Chile. However, northwestern Peru also has a separate disjunct population of great grebes.

This population is distinct enough to be considered a separate subspecies known as P. m. navasi. This subspecies is found mainly in southern Chile and is adapted to live in this region’s colder and harsher climate.

Great grebes in other parts of their range typically inhabit freshwater and brackish lakes, marshes, and streams, but the P. m. Navas subspecies are more likely to be found in coastal habitats as well.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPodicipediformes
FamilyPodicipedidae
GenusPodiceps
SpeciesP. major

11. Andean Flamingo

The Andean flamingo is a species native to the Andes mountains in South America. It was previously classified as Phoenicopterus, but since 2014, it has been moved to its genus, Phoenicoparrus.

This flamingo is closely related to James’s flamingo; the two species comprise the genus Phoenicoparrus. The Andean flamingo is a striking species with bright pink plumage, long pink legs, and a black bill.

The species is also known for its impressive courtship displays involving head-bobbing, wing-flapping, and bill-pumping.

The Andean flamingo is also unique because it feeds on various foods, including algae, insects, crustaceans, and even small fish. The Andean flamingo is an essential species to its native habitat, as it helps to maintain the balance of the local food web.

It is also an essential species for conservation, as its numbers are declining due to various threats, including habitat destruction and climate change. It is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPhoenicopteriformes
FamilyPhoenicopteridae
GenusPhoenicoparrus
SpeciesP. andinus

12. Black-capped Tinamou

The black-capped tinamou is a bird species found in various habitats. It is a member of the tinamou family, a group of ground-dwelling birds that live in the Americas, ranging from Mexico to Argentina.

This species is usually found in moist forest lowlands of subtropical and tropical regions. It inhabits various habitats, including thickets, wetlands, swamps, and second-growth scrub, but also has been known to inhabit agricultural areas.

While it is usually found in lowlands, it has been known to range up to 1,500 meters in elevation. The black-capped tinamou is a medium-sized bird, measuring about 28-30 centimeters long. It has a grey-brown plumage, with a distinctive black cap on the head.

Its legs are yellow or orange, with a long, thin, black bill. Its diet consists mainly of fruits, seeds, insects, and other small invertebrates. The black-capped tinamou is a solitary bird usually seen foraging alone or in pairs.

It is a vocal species, with its song consisting of a series of low-pitched whistles. Breeding usually occurs during the wet season, with the female laying two to four eggs in a nest made of twigs and leaves.

Both parents incubate the eggs, and the young are cared for by both parents. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the black-capped tinamou as a species of most minor concern.

Its population is believed to be stable, and its range is vast and not significantly threatened by human activities.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderTinamiformes
FamilyTinamidae
GenusCrypturellus
SpeciesC. atrocapillus

13. Brown Tinamou

The Brown Tinamou is a small, ground-dwelling bird in South America. It is predominantly brown, with a distinctive white patch on the throat.

This species is native to humid lowland and montane forests in tropical and subtropical areas of South America and is found in Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.

The Brown Tinamou is a member of the Tinamidae family and is highly terrestrial, meaning it spends much of its time on the ground.

It is omnivorous, and its diet consists of various insects, fruits, and seeds. It prefers to live in dense vegetation, such as shrubs and tall grass. The Brown Tinamou is a solitary species and is rarely seen in groups.

It is also a shy bird and is usually seen alone or in pairs. It is timid and secretive and will usually fly away if disturbed. The Brown Tinamou’s vocalizations include high-pitched whistles, chirps, and squeals.

This species is a ground nester and usually lays its eggs in a slight depression on the ground, lined with leaves and other material.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderTinamiformes
FamilyTinamidae
GenusCrypturellus
SpeciesC. obsoletus

14. Grey Tinamou

The grey tinamou is a species of ground bird found in South America. It is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring between 10 and 14 inches in length. It has brown and grey plumage and a short, dark bill.

Its habitat includes lowland forests, pastures, and shrubby areas. The grey tinamou is a species of neotropical bird, meaning it is native to Central and South America. It is most commonly found in Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador.

The species is divided into four subspecies, which differ in size, coloration, and range.

The four subspecies of the grey tinamou are the Bare-throated Tinamou (Crypturellus cinnamomeus cinnamomeus), the Rufous-breasted Tinamou (Crypturellus cinnamomeus rufiventris).

The White-bellied Tinamou (Crypturellus cinnamomeus parvirostris), and the Grey Tinamou (Crypturellus cinnamomeus dorbignyanus).

Each subspecies has a different distribution, range, and distinct coloration and size. The grey tinamou is a ground-dwelling bird, which means it spends most of its time on the ground foraging for food. Its diet consists mainly of seeds, fruits, and invertebrates.

It is also known to eat small lizards and frogs.

The grey tinamou is a vital seed disperser, playing an essential role in maintaining the forests of South America. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) considers the grey tinamou species of most minor concern.

Despite this, its population is in decline due to the destruction of its natural habitat. Conservation efforts are focused on preserving and restoring the forests of South America to help protect the species.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderTinamiformes
FamilyTinamidae
GenusTinamus
SpeciesT. tao

15. Hooded Tinamou

The hooded tinamou is a ground bird found in forests of Bolivia and Peru. This bird species is known for its black hood with a white stripe in the middle. It is a medium-sized bird, usually weighing 25 and 30 cm long.

It has a black bill, red legs, and a plain grey-brown back. Its wings are short and rounded, and its tail is short and slightly forked. The hooded tinamou is a ground-dwelling bird found in Bolivia and Peru, primarily in lowland forests.

It is an omnivore, eating various fruits, seeds, and invertebrates. It is usually found in pairs or small flocks and is primarily active during the day.

Its preferred habitats are dense, humid forests with thick leaf litter and abundant woody plants. The hooded tinamou is considered a vulnerable species, with its population declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation.

Hunting also threatens it, as it is often mistaken for a game bird.

As a result, it is protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).In conclusion, the hooded tinamou is an essential bird species in Bolivia and Peru.

Its unique appearance and declining population make it an important species to protect and conserve.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderTinamiformes
FamilyTinamidae
GenusNothocercus
SpeciesN. nigrocapillus

16. Ruddy Pigeon

The Ruddy Pigeon is a bird species native to Central and South America. It is a member of the Patagioenas genus, which includes small and plain species with distinctive calls.

The Ruddy Pigeon is a larger-than-average bird that inhabits areas ranging from Costa Rica to Ecuador, Bolivia, and central Brazil. This species belongs to a subgenus of Patagioenas known as Oenoenas, which its distinct call can identify.

The Ruddy Pigeon is a common species and can often be seen perched atop trees or rooftops in its native regions. They are typically found in open woodlands and scrublands, where they feed on seeds, insects, and fruits.

The Ruddy Pigeon is a social species often seen in small groups or pairs. The males are generally larger and more brightly colored than the females, and they use their distinctive calls to attract mates and defend their territory.

The Ruddy Pigeon is an essential species to its native habitats, as it helps keep its environment balanced by controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderColumbiformes
FamilyColumbidae
GenusPatagioenas
SpeciesP. subvinacea

17. Rufous-breasted Wood-Quail

The Rufous-breasted wood quail is a bird species belonging to the Odontophoridae family. It is found mainly in Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru, on the east side of the Andes Mountain Range, at an 800-2000m elevation.

This species of bird inhabits subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, which are located in mountain regions with mild temperatures and a high amount of rainfall.

The Rufous-breasted wood quail has been listed as the slightest concern, meaning it is not currently in danger of extinction. This is mainly due to its wide range and large population.

Conservation efforts have been made to protect this species and its natural habitat, ensuring it will remain safe and thrive.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderGalliformes
FamilyOdontophoridae
GenusOdontophorus
SpeciesO. speciosus

18. Sickle-winged Guan

The Sickle-winged Guan is a species of bird that belongs to the family Cracidae, which also includes the Chachalaca, Guan, and Curassow species. This bird is mainly found in four countries in South America: Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.

It has a unique sickle-shaped wing, which distinguishes it from other species. Its feathers are mainly black, with a greyish-white throat and a red crown, giving it a striking appearance.

This species can be found in these four countries’ humid tropical forests and subtropical areas, often at elevations of up to 3,000 meters.

It is known to feed on fruits, seeds, and insects and has a loud and distinctive call often heard in the early mornings or late evenings.

The Sickle-winged Guan is an essential species in its habitat, and conservation efforts are being made to protect it from extinction.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderGalliformes
FamilyCracidae
GenusChamaepetes
SpeciesC. goudotii

19. White-throated Tinamou

The white-throated tinamou is a bird species found in the Amazon rainforest of South America. Native to Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela, it is an elusive bird that is rarely seen but can be heard during the early morning hours.

It is known for its beautiful white throat, which is the source of its name. The white-throated tinamou is a ground-dwelling bird that lives in humid and dense rainforest environments. It feeds on plants and insects and is often found foraging on the forest floor.

It is an integral part of the Amazon’s ecosystem, as it helps distribute the seeds of plants and trees. The white-throated tinamou is an endangered species with a declining population due to poaching, habitat loss, and climate change.

Conservation efforts are underway to protect this species, maintain its habitat, and ensure its survival.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderTinamiformes
FamilyTinamidae
GenusTinamus
SpeciesT. guttatus

20. Black-winged Ground Dove

The black-winged ground dove is a bird species belonging to the Columbidae family. This bird is native to South America and can be found in several countries, including Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.

It is a relatively small bird, with a length of about 20 centimeters and a wingspan of 25-26 centimeters. The upper parts are mainly greyish-brown, while the underparts are white. The wings are black, with a white patch near the tip.

The tail is also black, with white outer feathers. The black-winged ground dove mainly feeds on small invertebrates, such as insects, larvae, and spiders. It also consumes some fruits and seeds.

This bird species has become increasingly rare in recent years due to various factors, including habitat loss and degradation, hunting, and predation by cats and other animals.

To help protect this species, conservation efforts are being undertaken in many of the countries where it is found. These efforts include habitat protection, reducing hunting and trapping, and increasing public awareness of the importance of conserving this species.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderColumbiformes
FamilyColumbidae
GenusMetriopelia
SpeciesM. melanoptera

21. Tawny-breasted Tinamou

The tawny-breasted tinamou is a ground-dwelling bird species found in montane moist forests, a habitat characterized by high elevation and wet conditions. This species is native to northwestern South America, stretching from Venezuela to Peru.

The bird is easily identifiable by its tawny-brown breast feathers, contrasting with its grey back and wings. The tawny-breasted tinamou has a thick, rounded body and a long, thin tail.

It typically feeds on fallen fruits and seeds but has also been observed eating insects and small lizards. This species is quite shy and secretive and is rarely seen in the open. It typically inhabits the forest’s understory, using dense vegetation for cover.

The tawny-breasted tinamou is a unique and beautiful bird, and its presence in montane moist forests is an essential reminder of preserving these habitats.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderTinamiformes
FamilyTinamidae
GenusNothocercus
SpeciesN. julius

22. White-collared Swift

The white-collared swift is a bird species belonging to the subfamily Cypseloidinae, which is a part of the swift family Apodidae.

This species of bird is native to Mexico, the Greater and Lesser Antilles, Trinidad, and all countries in mainland South America except Uruguay. This species has a distinct white collar, one of its identifying characteristics.

The white-collared swift is a medium-sized bird with a length of about 17 cm and a wingspan of about 25 cm. Its plumage is a light gray-brown, with a darker shade on its back and wings. Its tail is forked, with a white patch near the base.

The bird has an almost silent call with a sharp, high-pitched sound. The white-collared swift is a highly migratory species, traveling mainly at night and sometimes flying for several days without landing.

This species is mainly found in open areas, such as grasslands and savannas, as well as in urban and suburban areas. It feeds primarily on insects, which it catches in mid-air.

The white-collared swift often forms large flocks of up to 200 individuals and often roosts together in trees or buildings. The white-collared swift is a bird species found in a wide range of habitats and is quite adaptable.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) considers this species to be of least concern. Despite this, some populations are threatened by habitat loss and degradation, as well as by hunting and capture for the pet trade.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
CladeStrisores
OrderApodiformes
FamilyApodidae
GenusStreptoprocne
SpeciesS. zonaris

Conclusion

Birds in Abancay are an essential part of the local ecosystem. They provide various basic services such as pollination, pest control, and seed dispersal. They also provide a vital food source for humans and other wildlife.

As such, it is essential to protect and conserve birds in Abancay to maintain the local environment’s health.

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