Discover the Bearded Mountaineer at Huacarpay Lagoon – Bird List of Peru
Explore the Huacarpay Bird List: The Bearded Mountaineer (Oreonympha nobilis) is a rare and striking gem of the southern Peruvian Andes. With its unmistakable appearance and specialized habitat, this hummingbird is one of the most sought-after species by birdwatchers visiting Huacarpay Lagoon and other Andean regions.
Also observed in: Manu National Park birdwatching tours
Bearded Mountaineer Features – Huacarpay Lagoon
- Size: 15.5–16.5 cm (6–6.5 in) with a bill approximately 2.4 cm (1 in) long
- Habitat: Dry montane shrublands in inter-Andean valleys (between 2,700 and 3,900 meters altitude)
- Distinctive Traits: Large body for a hummingbird, long forked black-and-white tail, white underparts
- Male plumage:
- O. n. albolimbata subspecies: Narrow gorget with iridescent green and purple, spotted crown with white edges
- O. n. nobilis subspecies: Deep, shiny blue throat
- Song:
A descending series of high-pitched notes followed by a rich warble (“swee swee chew-chew-chew”) and a dry “dzzrt”
Where to Spot the Bearded Mountaineer – Explore the Huacarpay Bird List
- This hummingbird is endemic to the south-central Andes of Peru, especially in the Apurímac and Urubamba valleys and regions like Huancavelica.
- It adapts well to semi-open areas with dry scrub, cacti, and even zones near human settlements where wild tobacco (Nicotiana) and eucalyptus trees grow.
- Top location to see it:
Huacarpay Lagoon, a biodiversity hotspot with excellent access for birders.
Nesting Behavior – Explore the Huacarpay Bird List
A remarkable nest discovery was made at the entrance of the Tipón Archaeological Park, near Cusco:
Nest location: Under the thatched roof of a traditional structure, 2.25 meters off the ground
Structure: Compact cup-shaped nest made of fern fibers, moss, and fine roots
Eggs: Two small white eggs
This type of nesting shows precise adaptation to the cold, dry highland climate.
- Also observed during: Bird tours in Manu National Park
- Best Time to Visit – Explore the Huacarpay Bird List
- The Bearded Mountaineer likely breeds during the rainy season (November to May), making this the best time to observe nesting behavior.
- November, at the start of the rains, is a particularly promising month.
Tips for Birdwatchers
- Visit key sites: Huacarpay Lagoon and Tipón Archaeological Park
- Look for flowering plants: Especially purple flowers of Dunalia espinosa, which attract this species
- Bring binoculars: To admire details like the male’s shiny gorget
- Listen carefully: Pay attention to its unique calls and snapping sounds
Why Visit Huacarpay Lagoon?
- It’s a natural sanctuary for the Bearded Mountaineer and over 130 bird species
- Offers spectacular Andean landscapes and is ideal to combine with cultural visits
- Its proximity to Cusco (just 45 minutes away) makes it a perfect day trip
- Embark on a birding adventure and witness the extraordinary Bearded Mountaineer in the majestic landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.