Birds of Polylepis Woodlands
Discover the incredible world of Polylepis forests, a haven of biodiversity nestled in the breathtaking Andes of South America.
These extraordinary trees, known for their resilience to extreme altitudes and climates, provide shelter to a great variety of Peruvian birds. YES! Peru, in particular, boasts the highest diversity of Polylepis species, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth.
Polylepis forests serve as essential habitats for a wide range of flora and fauna, especially birds, many of which rely exclusively on these forests for their survival. Unfortunately, these Polylepis woodlands are under threat due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and global warming, putting their unique biodiversity at risk.
But there is hope! By raising awareness and taking action to protect these Polylepis woodlands, we can safeguard not only the incredible variety of plants and animals that inhabit them but also vital ecosystem services such as carbon capture and water regulation.
Learn more about these Polylepis forests on our environmental education and conservation website, Avistando Peru
The Best Place to Birdwatching in Polylepis Woodlands
Throughout the Andes of Peru, several Polylepis forests can be found, but the most renowned among birdwatchers are those in Cusco, such as Tastayoq in Abra Málaga and the Mantanay forests, located in the highlands of Yanahuara, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Without a doubt, Cusco is the best destination for birdwatching in these unique ecosystems.
If you are passionate about birdwatching in Peru, visiting these Polylepis forests is a must. Here, you will encounter specialized and endemic bird species whose survival depends on these high-altitude forests.
Birds of Polylepis Woodlands
Many bird species depend on Polylepis forests, whether for feeding on insects that thrive between the multiple (poly) layers (lepis) of their trunks, nesting, or seeking shelter. Among the most sought-after species in Tastayoq, Abra Málaga, are: Tit-like Dacnis, White-browed and Tawny Tit-spinetail, Royal Cinclodes, Ash-breasted Tit-tyrant, Line-fronted, Junin, and Rusty-fronted Canastero, Giant Conebill, as well as other fascinating birds in the surrounding areas, such as the Blue-mantled and Olivaceous Thornbill, Andean Hillstar, Vilcabamba and Puna Tapaculo, Stripe-headed Antpitta, and many more.
It is important to remember that these forests are located over 4,300 meters above sea level (14 thousand feet), so it is essential to be well-prepared for the altitude. Bringing an oxygen tank, an oximeter, and, most importantly, having an experienced guide who knows how to respond to altitude sickness is highly recommended.
We invite you to enjoy a special episode on Polylepis forests in Abra Málaga, created by our environmental conservation project, Avistando Perú. Watch the episode at this link: