REMOTE COLOMBIA:
URABA GULF

Colombia’s northwestern Uraba region is located along the Panamanian border and borders both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean. The Gulf of Uraba is the southernmost region of the Caribbean Sea, a small inlet extending southward from the Gulf of Darien towards the The Atrato River delta. This area of Colombia is still unknown; its checkered past and uprooting history have stigmatised an incredibly diverse region of the country. But things have changed. The Uraba region is the latest destination in Colombia to welcome international birders. More than 600 species occur in the area, so one can easily devote five or six days in search of the targets. It is easy to fly in to the region from major cities in Colombia and the area has comfortable hotels.

Best Months to Visit:

Late November to March


BOCAS DEL ATRATO

The site is reached after a 40 minute boat ride from Turbo, basically crossing the width of the Uraba Gulf to the mouth of the Atrato River.

Targets

Sooty-capped Puffbird (E), Northern Screamer, Black Antshrike (NE), Saphire-bellied Hummingbird, Roseate Spoonbill, Gray-headed Chachalaca.


TULENAPA FOREST

The largest urban forest on the planet is located within the municipality of Carepa.

Targets

American Pygmy Kingfisher, Black Antshrike (NE), Chestnut-winged Chachalaca (E), Tooth-billed Hummingbird, Grey-cheeked Nunlet, Yellow-eared Toucanet.


MUTATA

The municipality of Mutata is home to secondary and primary forests with differences in elevation that allow for nice diversity.

Targets

Baudo Guan (NE), Blue-chested Hummingbird, White-tipped Sicklebill, Crested Eagle, Black-breasted Puffbird, Blue-tailed Trogon (NE), Rose-faced Parrot (NE), Ocellated Antbird, Royal Flycatcher, Club-winged Manakin, Blue-whiskered Tanager (NE), Black-headed Brush-finch, Gray-cheeked Nunlet.


FINCA LA ALBORADA

A checkerboard of conserved forests, pastures, and agricultural lands can be birded at the Brand family farm near the municipality of Carepa. Access is via horseback and the accommodations are basic.

Targets

Harpy Eagle, Viridian Dacnis (NE), Rufous-crowned Gnatpitta (NE).


RIO DE LEON

One of the principal economic arteries of the region is Rio Leon, which flows into the Uraba Golf.

Targets

Northern Screamer, Gray-capped Cuckoo, Least Bittern, Gray-headed Kite.