Ever wonder where you can see almost all of Colombia’s bird diversity in one place? That place is right here at the Aviario Nacional de Colombia. It is located on Isla Baru, an hour from Cartagena’s center.
Cartagena’s National Aviario is not just a tourist attraction. It is an ambitious project. It showcases Colombia’s incredible birdlife diversity. The Aviario is the biggest in the Americas and the sixth biggest in the world. Impressive, right?
Inside the Aviario Nacional de Colombia, you’ll find more than 1,800 birds. These birds represent over 138 distinct species. The park spans seven hectares. This allows for a unique and wonderful collection of birds. They come from Colombia and Latin America.
As you explore the Aviario Nacional de Colombia, notice how the birds live. They are exhibited in representations of their natural habitats. The environments closely resemble their native homes. The Aviario seeks to promote knowledge. It focuses on Colombia’s diversity, sustainable use, and responsible management.
The Aviario Nacional de Colombia is also a conservation entity. It promotes knowledge through modern exhibits of birds. These exhibits are set in natural environments. It wants to conserve and promote Colombian diversity. It strives for sustainable use and responsible management. Animal welfare practices are key.
The Aviario aims to lead research for neotropical bird conservation in Latin America. It also aspires to be a global reference. This relates to studying and managing birds both in captivity and in their natural environments.
The birds at the Aviario come from various sources. Some come from Regional Autonomous Corporations. These corporations often deal with illegally trafficked wildlife. Others come from exchanges between zoological institutions. Many are reproduced in situ right here.
During your visit to the Aviario Nacional de Colombia, you will walk along ecological trails. These trails lead you through three ecosystems. You’ll experience a tropical rainforest. You’ll see a coastal zone. You will also explore a desert environment. These areas feature diverse species of birds.
Keep an eye out for the Andean condor. It is Colombia’s national bird. Challenge it to a staring competition if you dare. Admire the colorful tropical birds such as scarlet macaws. Look for the vibrant green jay. Don’t miss the pretty blue-winged tanager.
And for those flamingo fans? You’re in luck. The Aviario Nacional de Colombia has a whole flock of them. They chow down on pink crustaceans. This diet makes their feathers that rosy shade of wonderful.
The Aviario isn’t just for birds. It’s a fantastic example of Colombian flora and fauna. It plays a vital role in conservation and education. This is especially true for endangered species. The Aviario Nacional de Colombia currently has three breeding programs. These programs focus on threatened or endangered birds.
These include the Paujil Piqueazul an endemic species from Colombia. Also the Condor of the Andes, an emblematic bird. And the Harpy Eagle, the most powerful bird of prey.
The Aviario Nacional de Colombia is more than just a place to see birds. It is a center for research. It seeks to conserve birds and reproduce them. It is an experience that connects you to Colombia’s natural beauty. As you leave, remember the importance of preserving this incredible biodiversity.