About Machupicchu Bird Tour

About Machupicchu Bird Tour

Machu Picchu Birdwatching: A Guide to the Fascinating Birds of Peru

Are you ready for an unforgettable birdwatching experience on your Machu Picchu trip? Peru’s diverse ecosystems host an extraordinary range of bird species, from pigeons and doves to swifts and parrots. This guide highlights some of the most fascinating birds you may encounter during your visit to this iconic destination.

Bird Families at Machu Picchu: Pigeons & Doves

Machu Picchu's varied habitats are home to a variety of pigeon and dove species, each displaying unique colors and behaviors. Whether you are exploring the ancient ruins or trekking along the Inca Trail, keep an eye out for these stunning birds.

• Spot-winged Pigeon (Columba maculosa)
• Size: 32 cm
• Habitat: Open woodlands, scrub, and agricultural areas.
• Appearance: Blue-gray head and neck with a purplish tint, and a distinct white band on the wings visible in flight.
• Call: Soft "cooing" followed by a louder sequence.
• Where to See: Llactapata ruins along the Inca Trail (2000-4000 meters).
• Feral Pigeon (Columba livia)
• Size: 32 cm

Habitat: Towns, settlements, and open fields. About Machupicchu Bird Tour .

Appearance: Varies in color from white to blackish with dark bars on the wings.

• Call: Varied cooing sounds.
• Where to See: Commonly found in towns near Machu Picchu.
• Plumbeous Pigeon (Columba plumbea)
• Size: 33 cm
• Habitat: Humid sub-montane forests and forest borders.
• Appearance: Dark brown plumage with purplish gloss and grayish-brown undersides.
• Call: Distinctive "hoo-coo-cu-cuuuuu".
• Where to See: Rare sightings below 2000 meters, near Machu Picchu’s Sanctuary.
• Eared Dove (Zenaida auriculata)
• Size: 23-28 cm
• Habitat: Semi-arid open land and agricultural areas.
• Appearance: Olive-brown with cinnamon-vinaceous underparts.
• Call: Low descending "oo-whoo".

Where to See: Seen near Wayllabamba along the Inca Trail (2500-4000 meters).

Swifts at Machu Picchu: High-Flying Aerial Wonders Swifts are known for their remarkable flight abilities, feeding on insects while soaring through the air. These birds are frequently seen at Machu Picchu, adding to the incredible biodiversity of the area.

• Chestnut-collared Swift (Cypseloides rutilus)
• Size: 15 cm
• Habitat: Pre-montane forests and open ridges.
• Appearance: Dark sooty brown with a rufous-chestnut throat and cheeks.
• Call: High-pitched "chittering" and "buzzing".
• Where to See: Uncommon but found at elevations up to 3000 meters.
• White-collared Swift (Streptoprocne zonaris)
• Size: 20 cm
• Habitat: Humid forested areas and inter-montane valleys.
• Appearance: Black with a broad white collar around the neck and a forked tail.
• Call: Nasal twitters and buzzing.

Where to See: Common at all elevations within the Sanctuary.About Machupicchu Bird Tour

Parrots of Machu Picchu: Vibrant and Noisy Companions The lush montane forests surrounding Machu Picchu are home to a vibrant collection of parrots. Known for their colorful plumage and lively personalities, these parrots can often be heard before they are seen.

• Scarlet-fronted Parakeet (Aratinga wagleri)
• Size: 32 cm
• Habitat: Light forests and semi-arid areas near Machu Picchu.
• Appearance: Dull green with a striking red forehead and scarlet accents.
• Call: Loud screeching and chattering.
• Where to See: Found at 2000-3000 meters, especially near Llactapata.
• Mitred Parakeet (Aratinga mitrata)
• Size: 38 cm
• Habitat: Humid montane forests and pre-montane forests with vertical rock faces.
• Appearance: Light green with a red crown and blue sheen.
• Call: Harsh, deep "cfterree" and snarling "whee-eee".
• Where to See: Common around Aguas Calientes and the Urubamba gorge (1800-2500 meters).
• Golden-plumed Parakeet (Leptosittaca branickii)
• Size: 34 cm
• Habitat: Humid montane and sub-montane forests.
• Appearance: Green body with vibrant yellow and orange accents on the forehead and abdomen.
• Call: Harsh, Macaw-like screech.
• Where to See: Found between 2000-3500 meters, especially at 3000 meters.

Why Choose Machu Picchu for Birdwatching?

Machu Picchu is one of the most biodiverse regions in Peru, with over 400 species of birds recorded. The combination of varied ecosystems—ranging from dry, semi-arid zones to lush, montane forests—creates an ideal environment for birdwatching. Whether you are a seasoned birder or a casual enthusiast, the unique and vibrant birdlife at Machu Picchu will make your trip unforgettable.

Discover the Birds of Machu Picchu: A Guide to the Vibrant Avifauna of Peru

Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not only renowned for its stunning Inca ruins but also for its incredible biodiversity. Among the lush landscapes, you'll find a variety of bird species. In this guide, we highlight some of the fascinating birds of Machu Picchu, offering insight into their behavior, habitat, and distinctive features.

1. Scaly-naped Parrot (Amazona mercenaria) Size: 34 cm Key Features: Horn-colored bill, white orbital skin, broad blunt wings Habitat: Humid montane forests between 1,800 to 3,500 meters Where to Spot: Upper Aobamba Valley The Scaly-naped Parrot is a vibrant green parrot with a distinctive yellow face and blue-gray feather margins. Often found in pairs or large flocks, this parrot is known for its loud calls and shy demeanor. Its noisy flight and fluttering wingbeats make it easy to spot as it moves between feeding areas in the tree tops.

2. Dark-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus melacoryphus)

Size: 25 cm Key Features: Black bill, grayish eye-ring, buff underparts Habitat: Forest edges, gardens, dry bushy slopes Where to Spot: Machu Picchu (Uncommon, below 2,400 meters) The Dark-billed Cuckoo is a secretive bird with a subtle but distinctive call. Found mostly alone or in pairs, it hops through thick vegetation hunting for caterpillars and insects. Keep an eye out for its long graduated tail and the striking black mask across its face.

3. Squirrel Cuckoo (Piaya cayana)

Size: 43 cm Key Features: Chestnut upperparts, black abdomen, long graduated tail Habitat: Dry to wet forest, forest borders Where to Spot: Urubamba River near Puente Ruinas Railway Station The Squirrel Cuckoo is an active and agile bird, often spotted gliding between trees. Known for its explosive calls and squirrel-like movements, it thrives in dense vegetation and can often be found running or gliding through vines and tree branches.

4. Smooth-billed Ani (Crotophaga ani)

Size: 33 cm Key Features: Smooth black plumage, narrow arched bill, long loose tail Habitat: Humid forest clearings, corn fields, riverine thickets Where to Spot: Mandor and Aobamba Valleys Highly social and gregarious, the Smooth-billed Ani is often seen in small groups perched conspicuously on fences or trees. Its weak flight and distinctive "oouuuu-eenk" call make it easier to spot.

Barn Owls and Typical Owls of Machu Picchu

The region around Machu Picchu is home to a variety of owl species, each contributing to the rich nocturnal ecosystem. These birds are expert hunters, relying on their exceptional hearing and vision to locate prey in the dark.

Barn Owl (Tyto alba) Size: 38 cm Key Features: Tawny above with dark gray mottling, heart-shaped face Habitat: Agricultural areas, open terrain Where to Spot: All elevations Known for its heart-shaped face and silent flight, the Barn Owl is most active at dusk and night. It hunts rodents, flying silently over open country in search of its prey.

Tropical Screech Owl (Otus choliba)

Size: 23 cm Key Features: Ear tufts, yellow iris, grayish to cinnamon brown upperparts Habitat: Dry and humid forests, gardens Where to Spot: Urubamba River near Aguas Calientes This small owl is strictly nocturnal, feeding on large insects and small rodents. Listen for its distinctive whistled trill at dusk or pre-dawn.

Fascinating Nightjars and Nighthawks at Machu Picchu

These elusive birds are best known for their nighttime activities. Their cryptic plumage helps them blend into their surroundings, making them difficult to spot by day.

Rufous-bellied Nighthawk (Lurocalis rufiventris) Size: 25 cm Key Features: White throat bar, chestnut and gray vermiculations Habitat: Humid montane and pre-montane forest Where to Spot: Elevations between 1,500 and 2,500 meters The Rufous-bellied Nighthawk hunts erratically for insects at dawn and dusk. Its unique song—a series of mellow hoots—makes it easier to identify.

Band-winged Nightjar (Caprimulgus longirostris)

Size: 24 cm Key Features: Chestnut and buff mottling, broad whitish throat bar Habitat: Dry woodlands, scrubby slopes, puna grassland Where to Spot: Cusichaca Valley, Machu Picchu Sanctuary This nocturnal bird has a high-pitched "chee-wit" call and is often heard just after dusk. It feeds on flying insects and can be seen making short sallies from a perch.

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.

 

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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.