Manu National Park, located in the Peruvian Amazon, is a popular destination for both birders and photographers. The park is home to over 1,000 bird species, making it a paradise for those interested in bird photography and birding. In this article, we will highlight some of the most photographed birds in the park and offer tips for capturing their beauty through your lens.
Manu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve that covers over 1.5 million hectares of land. It is considered one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, with a wide range of habitats including lowland rainforest, cloud forest, and high Andean grasslands. The park is home to a vast array of bird species, making it a popular destination for photography tours and birding trips.
You can also read: Understanding the Role of Birds in our Ecosystems
The Most Photographed Birds in Manu National Park
The Andean Cock-of-the-Rock:
This brightly colored bird is a favorite among photographers due to its distinctive orange plumage and unique crest. The Andean Cock-of-the-Rock (Rupicola peruvianus) is found in the high Andean grasslands of Manu and is often seen displaying at leks (areas where males gather to perform courtship displays).
The Harpy Eagle:
The Harpy Eagle (Harpia harpyja) is one of the largest and most powerful birds of prey in the world. It is a rare sight in Manu, but when seen, it is a spectacular bird to photograph. It is found in the lowland rainforests of the park and is best photographed at dawn or dusk when the light is soft and the colors are rich.
The Amazonian Umbrellabird:
This large and striking bird is easily recognizable by its long crest and umbrella-like gular pouch. The Amazonian Umbrellabird (Cephalopterus ornatus) is found in the lowland rainforests of Manu and is often seen displaying at leks or foraging for fruit.
The Blue-and-yellow Macaw:
The Blue-and-yellow Macaw (Ara ararauna) is one of the most iconic birds of the Amazon. It is a large and colorful parrot that is often seen flying in flocks over the rainforest canopy. The macaws can be found in the lowland rainforests of Manu and can be best photographed in the early morning when they are most active.
The Hoatzin:
The Hoatzin (Opisthocomus hoazin), also known as the “stinkbird”, is a strange and unique bird found in the lowland rainforests of Manu. It is easily recognizable by its pungent odor and distinctive calls. It can be found along rivers and swamps, and is often seen foraging for leaves.
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The Golden-tailed Sapphire:
The Golden-tailed Sapphire (Chrysuronia oenone) is a small and brightly colored tanager that can be found in the cloud forests of Manu. It is best photographed during the breeding season, when the males are displaying their vibrant blue plumage with a golden tail.
The Paradise Tanager:
The Paradise Tanager (Tangara chilensis) is a large and colorful bird that can be found in the lowland rainforests of Manu. It is best photographed when it is perched on a branch or foraging for fruit.
The Golden-collared Tanager:
The Golden-collared Tanager (Iridosornis jelskii) is a medium-sized bird that can be found in the lowland rainforests of Manu. It is easily recognizable by its golden collar and blue plumage. It is best photographed when it is perched on a branch or foraging for fruit.
Manu National Park is a birding and photography paradise, with a wide range of habitats and over 1,000 bird species. The park is home to some of the most spectacular and colorful birds in the world, including hummingbirds and tanagers. By planning your trip, getting to know your gear, using a tripod, taking advantage of the light, and being patient, you can capture the beauty of these birds and create stunning photographs.
Colourful Birding invites you to discover beautiful bird gardens that can be visited and that create a space of protection for many animal species. Do not hesitate to contact us if you require further information about our bird photography travels.
