Colombia shines in the world´s largest bird count

With 1,560 recorded species, Colombia has once again established itself as the country with the greatest bird diversity on the planet and the undisputed star of Global Big Day, the world's largest citizen science event dedicated to birdwatching.

This achievement, made possible thanks to the collaborative work of thousands of observers and organizations across the country, reaffirms Colombia's role as a leading nature tourism destination.

Coordinated by the scientific platform eBird, the event takes place annually in more than 200 countries, bringing together enthusiasts, experts, and local communities to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day. This year, Colombia surpassed Peru (1,399 species) and Brazil (1,245), reaffirming its leadership in the global count.

Departments such as Meta, Antioquia, Putumayo, Valle del Cauca, and Caldas were featured in the survey, boasting unique ecosystems ranging from rainforests to paramos and flooded savannas. La Cocha de Curillo Lagoon, the Manacacías River in Puerto Gaitán, and the Tame Ecopark were highlighted as key birdwatching destinations in the country.

"This achievement reaffirms that Colombia is a country of beauty, not only for its people and culture, but also for the immense biodiversity that distinguishes us. Birdwatching is one of Colombia's greatest assets as a sustainable destination, generating opportunities in the regions and strengthening our international reach," said Carmen Caballero, president of ProColombia, the promotional agency.

A country's bet

Colombia's leadership on Global Big Day is no coincidence. The country is home to more than 1,900 bird species, 79 of them endemic, and is a key point on the migratory routes of the Western Hemisphere. But in addition to its natural wealth, the country has developed a concrete strategy to position birdwatching as an international tourism product.

From adequate infrastructure, specialized bilingual guides, trails designed for birdwatching, to accommodations tailored to observers' routines, Colombia has been strengthening the necessary conditions for this niche. Complementary services such as transportation, field meals, support materials, and souvenirs are also promoted.

Through ProColombia, the country has promoted specialized birdwatching routes, participated in international fairs such as the Global Bird Fair, and organized familiarization trips with specialized tour operators from the United States and the United Kingdom, the two main source markets. It also supports business development in the sector and promotes tour packages designed for diverse birdwatching profiles, from the most experienced to the most amateur.

This combination of biodiversity, professionalization, and strategic promotion has turned birdwatching into a key source of income for local communities, as well as a powerful tool for conserving ecosystems and showcasing a Colombia connected to nature to the world.

Source: Colombia.Travel