About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Machu Picchu is a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering unique opportunities to observe a diverse range of species in their natural habitats. Whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail, exploring the Aobamba Valley, or simply soaking in the stunning views, keep your eyes peeled for these fascinating birds. From parrots and cuckoos to owls and nighthawks, the avifauna of Machu Picchu is as rich and diverse as the archaeological wonders that surround it.
Tips for Birdwatching in Machu Picchu
- Best Time to Spot Birds: Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times for birdwatching.
- What to Bring: Binoculars, a field guide for birds of Peru, and a camera to capture these majestic creatures.
- Guided Tours: Consider booking a local birdwatching guide for an enriched experience and better chances of spotting rare species.
About Machupicchu Bird Tour.
About Machupicchu Bird Tour: A Guide to Pigeons, Doves, Swifts, and Parrots
Machu Picchu is renowned not only for its ancient Incan ruins but also as a hotspot for birdwatching. Home to
various bird species, including pigeons, doves, swifts, and parrots, the region offers a unique opportunity for bird
enthusiasts.
This guide highlights the diverse bird families you may encounter during your Machu Picchu trip.
Bird Families: Pigeons and Doves at Machu Picchu
Pigeons and doves are widespread, ranging from small sparrow-sized birds to large species. These birds can be found
in various habitats, from woodlands to scrublands, and are known for their fast flight.
The head is small, and the bill is weak, often producing a cooing call useful for identification.
1. Spot-winged Pigeon (Columba maculosa) About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Size: 32 cm
Appearance: Blue-gray head, neck, and underparts, with a contrasting white wing band.
Habitat: Semi-arid areas, including open woodlands and small settlements near Eucalyptus trees.
Song: Low coos with a distinctive “cooouh-cuh-coooh.”
Location: Common around Llactapata ruins and the Inca Trail.
2. Feral Pigeon (Columba livia) About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Size: 32 cm
Appearance: Typically gray with black bars and a white rump. Various color morphs are found.
Habitat: Urban areas and agricultural land.
Behavior: Feeds during the day and is highly social.
Location: Found around towns and settlements.
3. Plumbeous Pigeon (Columba plumbea) About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Size: 33 cm
Appearance: Dark brown with a purplish gloss on the crown and neck.
Habitat: Humid sub-montane forests.
Song: A distinctive “hoo-coo-cu-cuuuuu.”
Location: Rare, found in the Sanctuary at low elevations.
4. Eared Dove (Zenaida auriculata) About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Size: 23-28 cm
Appearance: Olive-brown upper parts with black streaks behind the eye.
Flight: Fast and direct, often in large groups.
Location: Found around the village of Wayllabamba along the Inca Trail.
Bird Families: Swifts About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Swifts are the most aerial of birds, known for their sickle-shaped wings. They feed, mate, and even sleep in mid-air.
Swifts are highly social and often seen in large flocks.
1. Chestnut-collared Swift (Cypseloides rutilus)
Size: 15 cm
Appearance: Dark sooty brown with a rufous-chestnut throat.
Habitat: Pre-montane forests and open terrain.
Behavior: Flocks are usually seen in valleys.
Location: Uncommon at Machu Picchu.
2. White-collared Swift (Streptoprocne zonaris) About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Size: 20 cm
Appearance: Large black swift with a distinctive white collar around the neck.
Behavior: Soars in large flocks, often behind waterfalls.
Location: Common throughout Machu Picchu.
3. White-tipped Swift (Aeronautes montivagus) About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Size: 13 cm
Appearance: Dark brown with white tips on wings and tail.
Habitat: Semi-humid areas over forested hills.
Location: Common near Wayna Picchu.
Bird Families: Parrots About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Parrots are known for their social nature and vibrant plumage. Found in the warmer climates of the Andes, many
species of parrots inhabit Machu Picchu and its surrounding areas.
1. Scarlet-fronted Parakeet (Aratinga wagleri)
Size: 32 cm
Appearance: Green with a scarlet forehead and red around the neck.
Habitat: Light forests and semi-arid areas.
Behavior: Very social and often seen in large flocks.
Location: Found around Llactapata, Machu Picchu.
Birdwatching at Machu Picchu: A Guide to the Region’s Stunning Parrots, Owls, and More
Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca city nestled in the Peruvian Andes, is not only a marvel of historical architecture but
also a prime destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.
With its rich biodiversity, the region boasts a wide variety of unique bird species, including colorful parakeets,
majestic owls, and elusive nighthawks.
Here’s a guide to some of the prominent bird species you can find in the Machu Picchu area, perfect for nature lovers
and birdwatchers alike.
Parakeets of Machu Picchu
Mitred Parakeet (Aratinga mitrata)
Size: 38 cm
Found in humid montane and pre-montane forests, the Mitred Parakeet is a social and vocal species. Its bright green
plumage with a distinctive red forehead and crown makes it a striking sight in the canopy.
These birds are often seen in noisy flocks and feed on the flowers of Erythrina trees. They can be spotted around
1,800–2,500 meters, especially near the Urubamba Gorge.
Golden-plumed Parakeet (Leptosittaca branickii) About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Size: 34 cm
This beautiful parakeet features vibrant orange-brown feathers on its forehead, yellow markings around the eyes,
and a colorful abdomen.
It inhabits montane and sub-montane forests at elevations between 2,000 and 3,500 meters, often seen in groups
feeding in tree canopies.
BBarred Parakeet (Bolborhynchus lineóla) About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Size: 17 cm
With emerald green plumage and distinct black barring on its wings, the Barred Parakeet is an inconspicuous species
often found near flowering bamboo.
It prefers the mid to understory and can be seen flying in flocks at elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters.
Andean Parakeet (Bolborhynchus orbygnesius) About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Size: 16 cm
Known for its pale greenish-yellow bill and its preference for dry, cloud forests, the Andean Parakeet is often seen in
groups feeding on seeds and fruits in bushy scrub at elevations between 3,000 and 4,000 meters.
Owls and Night Birds of Machu Picchu
Barn Owl (Tyto alba)
Size: 38 cm
With its heart-shaped face and nocturnal hunting habits, the Barn Owl is a common sight in open, lightly wooded
areas around Machu Picchu.
It is active at dusk and night, silently gliding over the landscape in search of small rodents.
Tropical Screech Owl (Otus choliba) About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Size: 23 cm
A small, nocturnal owl with ear-tufts and yellow eyes, this species is found in lighter woodlands and gardens. It calls
with a short, whistled trill and feeds mainly on large insects at lower levels.
Magellanic Horned Owl (Bubo magellanicus)
Size: 48-56 cm
This large owl, known for its striking ear tufts, is typically found at higher elevations (above 3,000 meters). It hunts
mainly for small mammals, using a powerful hoot to communicate during the evening.
Yungas Pygmy-Owl (Glaucidium bolivianum) About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Size: 16 cm
A tiny owl with a distinctive ‘face-like’ pattern on its hind-neck, the Yungas Pygmy-Owl is often seen in humid
montane forests, hunting insects and small birds.
Its whistled calls are common at dawn and dusk.
Unique Birds of Machu Picchu
Oilbird (Steatornis caripensis)
Size: 48 cm
Known for being the world’s only nocturnal fruit-eating bird, the Oilbird has a distinctive hawk-like bill and is found
in humid pre-montane forests.
It forages at night, feeding primarily on palm fruits, and can sometimes be spotted in the Machu Picchu region.
Swallow-tailed Nightjar (Uropsalis segmentata)
Size: 22 cm (without streamers)
This dark nightjar is recognizable by its long, forked tail and is often seen at dusk and dawn hunting for flying insects
in the Machu Picchu area.
Rufous-bellied Nighthawk (Lurocalis rufiventris) About Machupicchu Bird Tour
Size: 25 cm
With its fuscous black plumage and distinctive white throat bar, the Rufous-bellied Nighthawk is a nocturnal bird
that feeds above the forest canopy, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Birdwatching Tips at Machu Picchu
Best Viewing Times: Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for birdwatching when many species are most
active.
Habitat: Birdwatchers should focus on diverse habitats like montane forests, forest edges, and river valleys, which
support a wide variety of birdlife.
Birding Tours: Consider joining a guided tour for expert insights and better chances of spotting elusive species.
Machu Picchu is a treasure trove for bird enthusiasts, offering a remarkable diversity of species set against the
stunning backdrop of the Andes.
Whether you’re admiring the vibrant parakeets or listening for the haunting calls of owls, the birds
of Machu Picchu provide a fascinating addition to your journey through this mystical site.
About Machupicchu Bird Tour Ready to experience the birdwatching adventure of a lifetime? Join one of our expert-led Machu Picchu birding tours and get an up-close look at the fascinating avian life that calls this magical place home. With knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore the best birdwatching hotspots and gain valuable insights into the diverse species of Peru.
Plan Your Machu Picchu Birding Tour
Machu Picchu offers a wealth of opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts, with unique species of pigeons, swifts, and parrots. Whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail or visiting the ruins, keep your binoculars handy to spot these incredible birds in their natural habitat. Many species can be found at various elevations, so whether you’re near Llactapata ruins, Aguas Calientes, or Wayna Picchu, there’s always a bird to discover.
Machu Picchu Bird Tour: A Guide to Pigeons, Doves, Swifts, and Parrots
Machu Picchu is renowned for its stunning Incan ruins, but it also serves as a vibrant hotspot for birdwatching. Home to a wide variety of bird species, including pigeons, doves, swifts, and parrots, the region provides a unique and captivating experience for bird enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious traveler, this guide will introduce you to the incredible avian life you can expect to see while exploring the Machu Picchu area.
Birdwatching at Machu Picchu: 20 Questions Answered
What bird species can I find at Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is home to a diverse range of bird species, including pigeons, doves, swifts, parrots, owls, and nighthawks, among others.
Where can I spot pigeons and doves at Machu Picchu?
Pigeons and doves can be found in various habitats around the region, including near the Inca Trail and Llactapata ruins.
What is the most common pigeon species in Machu Picchu?
The Feral Pigeon (Columba livia) is the most common pigeon found in urban areas and agricultural lands around Machu Picchu.
What are some unique characteristics of the Spot-winged Pigeon?
The Spot-winged Pigeon (Columba maculosa) has a blue-gray body with a white wing band and produces low cooing calls. It is typically found in semi-arid areas.
Where is the Plumbeous Pigeon located?
This rare species can be found in the Sanctuary at lower elevations, typically in humid sub-montane forests.
What is a distinctive feature of the Eared Dove?
The Eared Dove (Zenaida auriculata) is olive-brown with black streaks behind its eyes, and it’s known for its fast and direct flight.
What makes swifts different from other birds?
Swifts are exceptional flyers with sickle-shaped wings. They can feed, mate, and even sleep in mid-air.
Where can I spot Chestnut-collared Swifts at Machu Picchu?
Chestnut-collared Swifts (Cypseloides rutilus) are typically found in pre-montane forests and open terrains, though they are uncommon at Machu Picchu.
Which swift is commonly seen at Machu Picchu?
The White-collared Swift (Streptoprocne zonaris) is commonly found soaring in large flocks, often near waterfalls.
What is the size of a White-tipped Swift?
The White-tipped Swift (Aeronautes montivagus) is a small bird, measuring around 13 cm in size, and it can often be seen near Wayna Picchu.
How can I identify a Scarlet-fronted Parakeet?
The Scarlet-fronted Parakeet (Aratinga wagleri) is easily identified by its green body and scarlet-colored forehead. It is highly social and can be seen in flocks.
What is the habitat of the Mitred Parakeet?
The Mitred Parakeet (Aratinga mitrata) prefers humid montane and pre-montane forests and is often seen in the Urubamba Gorge.
What makes the Golden-plumed Parakeet unique?
The Golden-plumed Parakeet (Leptosittaca branickii) stands out with its vibrant orange-brown feathers and yellow markings around the eyes. It is found at elevations between 2,000 and 3,500 meters.
Where can I see the Barred Parakeet?
The Barred Parakeet (Bolborhynchus lineóla) is typically seen flying in flocks near flowering bamboo, usually at elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters.
What are the best times for birdwatching at Machu Picchu?
The best times to view birds are early mornings and late afternoons, as many species are most active during these periods.
Can I spot owls at Machu Picchu?
Yes, various species of owls, such as the Barn Owl and Tropical Screech Owl, are found in the region, especially during the evening and at night.
What is special about the Barn Owl?
The Barn Owl (Tyto alba) is known for its heart-shaped face and nocturnal habits. It hunts small rodents in open, lightly wooded areas.
How do I recognize a Yungas Pygmy-Owl?
The Yungas Pygmy-Owl (Glaucidium bolivianum) is a tiny owl with a distinctive ‘face-like’ pattern on its hind neck and is commonly found in humid montane forests.
What is the Oilbird’s diet?
The Oilbird (Steatornis caripensis) is the world’s only nocturnal fruit-eating bird, feeding mainly on palm fruits. It forages at night in humid pre-montane forests.
Are there any unique night birds in Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is home to night birds such as the Swallow-tailed Nightjar (Uropsalis segmentata) and the Rufous-bellied Nighthawk (Lurocalis rufiventris), which hunt for insects at dusk and dawn.
Birdwatching Tips at Machu Picchu
For the best birdwatching experience at Machu Picchu, follow these essential tips:
Focus on diverse habitats: Explore montane forests, forest edges, and river valleys to maximize the variety of birds you can spot.
Join a guided birdwatching tour: Local guides can provide expert knowledge and improve your chances of spotting rare and elusive species.
Bring the right gear: A pair of binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens will help you capture those magical bird sightings.
Stay patient: Birds at Machu Picchu are active at dawn and dusk, so be prepared for some waiting, but it will be worth it for the breathtaking views and birdwatching moments.