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Birdwatching in Amboró National Park

Amboró National Park is one of the planet’s most biodiverse areas. Our eco lodge provides direct access to zones rich in endemic and migratory birds, with majestic landscapes as your backdrop.

INFORMATION ABOUT

Birdwatching

Refugio Los Volcanes is located right on the edge of Amboró National Park. The management of Refugio Los Volcanes cannot guarantee sightings of wild animals. Although they do exist in the area, they are very shy and sightings are rare.

This page presents a detailed list of bird species observed at Refugio Los Volcanes, Bolivia, classified according to the difficulty of sighting. The classification takes into account frequency, habits, and behavior recorded in the eBird hotspot and related publications.

Meet our feathered visitors

A paradise for bird lovers.

Refugio holds the 7th place on earth with more bird species, is one of Bolivia's richest ecosystems.

Black-Streaked Puffbird

Malacoptila Fulvogularis

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Bolivian Tapaculo

Scytalopus bolivianus

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Rufous-Breasted Wood-Quail

Odotophorus speciosus

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Yungas Manakin

Chiroxiphia boliviana

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Barred Forest-Falcon

Micrastur ruficollis

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Ocellated Woodcreeper

Xiphorhynchus ocellatus

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Gray Tinamou

Tinamus tao

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Bolivian Recurvebill

Syndactyla striata

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Slaty Gnateater

Conopophaga ardesiaca

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Gray-throated Leaftosser

Scierurus albigularis

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Bare-Faced Curassow

Crax fasciolata

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Razor-Billed Curassow

Mitu Tuberosum

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Sunbittern

Eurypyga Helias

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Channel-Billed Toucan

Ramphastos Vitellinus culminatus/pintoi

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Military Macaw

Ara Militaris

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LEVEL 1

Easily observed birds

Whiskered Chachalaca

Ortalis guttata

Blue-crowned Trogon

Trogon curucui

Arasari Orejicastano

Pteroglossus castanotis

Green-cheeked Parakeet

Pyrrhura molinae

Blue Fronted Parrot

Amazona aestiva

Scarlet Gorgies Candle

Myioborus miniatus

Common Buzzard

Buteo magnirostris

Striped Flycatcher

Mionectes striaticollis

Tropical Tyrant

Tyrannus melancholicus

Sulfurous Picoplane

Tolmomyias sulphurescens

Rufous-bellied Blackbird

Turdus rufiventris

LEVEL 2

Birds moderately difficult to observe

Chief Lomiamarillo

Cacicus cela

Jungle Condor

Sarcoramphus papa

Andean Condor

Vultur gryphus

Bicolored Hawk

Accipiter bicolor

Blue Fronted Parrot

Amazona aestiva

Brilliant Violetfront

Heliodoxa leadbeateri

Tropical Copeton

Myiarchus tuberculifer

Bat Falcon

Falco rufigularis

Blue Headed Parrot

Pionus menstruus

Mealy Parrot

Amazona farinosa

Blue-tailed Emerald

Chlorostilbon mellisugus

Fork-tailed Nymph

Thalurania furcata

Channel-billed Toucan

Ramphastos vitellinus

Military Macaw

Ara militaris

Andean Guan

Penelope montagnii

Amazon Momoto

Momotus momota

Dark-headed Parrot

Pionus maximiliani

LEVEL 3

Birds that are difficult or very rare to observe

Bolivian Tororoi

Grallaria cochabambae

Multicolored Bearded

Eubucco versicolor

Collared Monterita

Microspingus torquatus

Collared Forest Falcon

Micrastur semitorquatus

Southern Ant Flycatcher

Corythopis delalandi

Rufous-naped Scrub-bird

Atlapetes rufinucha

Barred-bellied Owl

Pulsatrix melanota

Yungas Flycatcher

Hemitriccus spodiops

Lyre-tailed Nightjar

Uropsalis lyra

Rufous-breasted Falcon

Falco deiroleucus

Barred Bighead

Pachyramphus versicolor

Common Nictibio

Nyctibius griseus

White-breasted Blackbird

Turdus leucomelas

Barred Forest Falcon

Micrastur ruficollis

Gray Tinamu

Tinamus tao

Blue-banded Toucanet

Aulacorhynchus derbianus

Razor-billed Curassow

Mitu tuberosum

Yungas Manakin

Chiroxiphia boliviana

Sunbittern

Eurypyga helias

Masked Trogon

Trogon personatus

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Explore hundreds of bird sightings recorded at Refugio Los Volcanes and Amboró National Park.
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Black-streaked Puffbird

Malacoptila fulvogularis

The Striped Puffbird is one of those hidden gems that only the most patient and attentive birdwatchers manage to discover. Compact-bodied and with cryptic plumage, this species is distinguished by its bristled facial feathers, giving it the appearance of having “mustaches,” and a streaked chest that blends perfectly with the earthy tones of the understory.

This bird belongs to the Bucconidae family and, although it is not considered endangered, it is notoriously difficult to find due to its discreet behavior and preferred habitat: humid, shady forests, where it remains motionless for long periods while stalking insects and small invertebrates.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, it has been recorded in dense forested areas, especially in low, moist zones where sunlight barely reaches the ground. Its call is infrequent, making it even harder to detect. Observing a Striped Puffbird in the refuge is considered a privilege among ornithologists and nature photographers.

Its presence is a clear sign of the quality and conservation of the ecosystem. This type of bird does not inhabit disturbed areas, making the refuge one of the most important sanctuaries for its protection in Bolivia. Every sighting adds both scientific and emotional value for visitors, proving that there are still places where nature can thrive in its fullest expression.

Bolivian Tapaculo

Scytalopus bolivianus

The Bolivian Tapaculo is one of the most elusive and enigmatic birds of the tropical Andes. It belongs to the family Rhinocryptidae, known for its secretive behavior and preference for dense understory habitats. This species is endemic to the Andes of Bolivia and southeastern Peru, inhabiting primarily between 1,000 and 2,300 meters above sea level.

Small in size, approximately 11.5 cm, it has predominantly black plumage with rufous flanks and a distinctive white patch on the crown. Females are similar, but display a paler tone with fine barring on the flanks and rump.

Its behavior is extremely shy; it is rarely seen, preferring to move through the dense vegetation of the understory. However, its song is an invaluable tool for identification. It produces a prolonged trill lasting up to 15 seconds, and its alarm call is a distinctive “kekekeke.”

At Refugio Los Volcanes, this species has been frequently heard in high areas with dense vegetation. Its presence confirms the richness and integrity of the local cloud forests, serving as a valuable ecological indicator for researchers and nature enthusiasts.

Rufous-breasted Wood-Quail

Odontophorus speciosus

The Rufous-breasted Wood Quail is a terrestrial bird inhabiting the humid and montane forests of the tropical Andes. It belongs to the family Odontophoridae and is characterized by its elusive behavior, moving in small family groups that roam the understory in search of seeds, insects, and small fruits.

Medium-sized and robust-bodied, it displays dark brown plumage with rufous tones on the chest and belly, which give it its common name. This coloration provides excellent camouflage among the dry leaves and low vegetation of the forest floor.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, this species has been recorded mainly during the early morning hours or at dusk, when it emerges to forage in areas of dense vegetation. Its call is a series of rapid, repetitive notes, audible even at long distances and often the only clue to its presence.

The Rufous-breasted Wood Quail is a key indicator of well-preserved ecosystems, and its presence in the refuge confirms the good conservation status of the region’s humid forests. Observing it in the wild is a true reward for naturalists and ornithologists alike.

Yungas Manakin

Chiroxiphia boliviana

The Yungas Manakin is one of the most striking and charming birds inhabiting the humid montane forests. Belonging to the family Pipridae, this small bird is renowned for its vibrant colors and elaborate courtship displays, making it a true winged jewel of the tropical Andes.

The male sports jet-black plumage with a striking bright red crown and back, while the female, with her greenish tones, is far more inconspicuous. During the breeding season, males perform intricate group displays to attract females, leaping between branches with precision and energy, accompanied by vibrant calls.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, the Yungas Manakin is found in areas of dense vegetation between 1,000 and 2,000 meters above sea level, where cloud forests provide an ideal environment for breeding and feeding. Its presence is a delight for birdwatchers, as although its call may reveal it, following its agile movements through the high branches is not always easy.

This species is endemic to Bolivia and parts of northern Argentina, and its conservation depends directly on the protection of its natural habitat. Refugio Los Volcanes plays a key role in this regard, offering a safe space for its reproduction and development.

Barred Forest Falcon

Micrastur ruficollis

The Barred Forest Falcon is a small, stealthy raptor found in the dense, humid forests of Central and South America, including Refugio Los Volcanes. This species belongs to the family Falconidae and is distinguished by its black-and-white barring, intense gaze, and agile hunting skills.

It prefers to remain concealed within the foliage, moving with skill in search of prey such as small birds, lizards, and insects. Its presence is often more easily detected by its distinctive vocalization — a loud, resonant call that breaks the forest’s silence.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, sightings are rare but deeply significant. This is one of those silent gems that reflect the richness of the ecosystem and reward the most patient observers. Its short, rapid flights through the vegetation, combined with its natural camouflage, make it an exciting challenge for ornithologists and wildlife enthusiasts.

The presence of the Barred Forest Falcon in the refuge not only enriches our sighting lists but also reaffirms the value of protecting pristine natural environments where predators as stealthy as they are essential still survive.

Ocellated Woodcreeper

Xiphorhynchus ocellatus

The Ocellated Woodcreeper is one of the most specialized birds when it comes to moving along tree trunks and branches in search of food. Belonging to the family Furnariidae, this woodcreeper is known for its climbing ability and its sharp hearing, which allows it to detect the slightest movement of insects beneath the bark.

It has an elongated body, with olive-brown plumage adorned with small pale markings in the shape of “ocelli” (bright spots), which give it its common name. Its bill is curved and strong, perfect for probing and prying into the crevices of wood.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, this species inhabits primary humid forests, where it is usually found alone or as part of mixed foraging flocks. It is discreet and methodical, moving vertically along trunks with slow yet steady movements. Its song is soft but repetitive, with ascending notes that can be identified from a distance if one listens closely.

The Ocellated Woodcreeper plays a key role in the ecosystem by regulating insect populations and contributing to the forest’s natural balance. Its presence at Refugio Los Volcanes reaffirms the ecological value of these still-preserved rainforests, rich in biodiversity.

Gray Tinamou

Tinamus tao

The Grey Tinamou is one of the most enigmatic ground-dwelling birds of the forest. A member of the family Tinamidae, it is a close relative of ostriches and rheas, but unlike them, it has limited flight and prefers to move stealthily through the low vegetation.

Larger than most tinamous, it can reach up to 40 cm in length. Its grayish, mottled plumage provides perfect camouflage among the dry leaves on the forest floor. It has a small head and a robust body, with a slow, graceful gait. Extremely shy, it is rarely seen.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, the Grey Tinamou has been recorded in the densest primary forests, especially in areas with abundant, undisturbed vegetation. Its deep, resonant song—most often heard in the early morning—is its most distinctive trait: a low, melancholic, and enveloping melody that evokes the depth of the Andean-Amazonian forest.

The presence of the Grey Tinamou in the refuge indicates a healthy, minimally disturbed ecosystem. These birds are particularly sensitive to hunting and habitat fragmentation, making their conservation closely tied to the effective protection of the forest. Observing one is a privilege reserved for the most patient and silent visitors.

Bolivian Recurvebill

Syndactyla striata

The Bolivian Recurvebill is one of the most unique and specialized birds of the Andean-Amazonian forest. Endemic to Bolivia, it belongs to the family Furnariidae and is recognized for its upturned bill, a unique adaptation that allows it to forage among bamboos, palms, and tangled understory branches.

Medium-sized, with olive-brown plumage and a pale throat, this recurvebill may go unnoticed visually, but its sharp, metallic song reveals its presence in the vegetation. Agile and inquisitive in behavior, it often moves within mixed-species flocks, making it easier for attentive observers to detect it through its constant activity within the foliage.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, the Bolivian Recurvebill primarily inhabits areas where native bamboo (Chusquea) grows—one of its preferred plants for finding insects. Its presence in this environment indicates not only the ecological quality of the site but also the refuge’s value as a sanctuary for endemic and uncommon species.

Due to its limited geographic distribution, the Bolivian Recurvebill is highly vulnerable to deforestation. Preserving areas such as Refugio Los Volcanes is vital for its long-term survival, making this location a key site for the observation and study of bird species exclusive to Bolivian territory.

Slaty Gnateater

Conopophaga ardesiaca

The Slaty Gnateater is a discreet and enigmatic bird inhabiting the dense montane forests of South America. It belongs to the family Conopophagidae, a group known as “gnateaters” due to their diet, which consists mainly of small insects—particularly dipterans—and other understory invertebrates.

Small and compact, measuring about 12 cm in length, the male has dark slaty-gray plumage, while the female shows browner tones with a pale throat. Both sexes are well camouflaged in the shaded environment, and are therefore most often detected by their call: a sharp, repetitive sound that cuts through the silence of the humid forest.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, the Slaty Gnateater has been recorded in areas of dense vegetation and moist soils, where it remains close to the ground among roots, leaf litter, and bamboo. It is rarely seen in full view, but with patience and a trained ear, one can approach one of these discreet forest dwellers.

Its presence in the refuge underscores the site’s conservation value, as this type of bird thrives only in intact, minimally disturbed ecosystems. Each sighting of a Slaty Gnateater is a unique experience for those who appreciate silent and patient observation.

Gray-throated Leaftosser

Sclerurus albigularis

The Grey-throated Leaf Tosser is a bird specialized in foraging among the leaf litter on the forest floor. Belonging to the family Furnariidae, its behavior and morphology are perfectly adapted to a terrestrial life in humid, shaded forests.

It has a compact brown body with a pale throat, which gives the species its common name. Its bill is sturdy and slightly downcurved, ideal for lifting leaves, branches, and moss while searching for insects, larvae, and other forest-floor invertebrates.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, the Grey-throated Leaf Tosser has been recorded in areas of dense vegetation, where it moves quietly along the ground. It is a highly discreet species, relying on its camouflage to remain unnoticed. However, with patience and careful attention to the sound of rustling leaves, it is possible to detect it while actively foraging.

The song of this species is a series of soft, descending notes that blend with the sounds of the humid forest. Its presence in the refuge is further proof that this ecosystem harbors specialized species that can only survive in well-preserved habitats. Observing it in action is to witness the delicate balance of life on the forest floor.

Bare-Faced Curassow

Crax fasciolata

The Barred Forest-Fowl is a large, ground-dwelling bird belonging to the family Cracidae. With its imposing presence and reserved behavior, it is a species that embodies both the majesty and fragility of well-preserved tropical ecosystems.

Measuring between 70 and 85 cm in length, it has glossy black plumage, a white belly, and a barred tail pattern from which it takes its common name. Both sexes are similar, although the male often bears a yellow casque at the base of the bill. It moves gracefully along the forest floor, searching for fallen fruits, seeds, small invertebrates, and shoots.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, this species has been recorded in the most remote and undisturbed areas of primary forest, where it finds the food and cover needed for nesting and moving about unnoticed. It is among the most difficult birds to observe due to its shyness and preference for habitats with minimal human disturbance.

The Barred Forest-Fowl is considered a vulnerable species in many regions due to habitat loss and hunting. Its presence at Refugio Los Volcanes is proof that the ecosystem still retains its complexity and richness. Observing one in the wild is an unforgettable experience for any naturalist.

Razor-Billed Curassow

Mitu tuberosum

The Razor-billed Curassow is an imposing species of the family Cracidae, known for its elegant bearing, considerable size, and distinctively shaped thick bill. It is one of the most representative birds of South American tropical forests and a symbol of an ecosystem rich in biodiversity.

This curassow reaches between 70 and 90 cm in length. It displays glossy black plumage with bluish sheen and a striking white band across the belly. Its bill is robust, broad-based, and topped with a reddish fleshy protuberance, from which it takes its common name. It moves with a slow, deliberate gait and reserved demeanor, most often in pairs or family groups.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, the Razor-billed Curassow has been recorded in lowland and transitional forests, where it finds its food: ripe fruits, shoots, insects, and small invertebrates. Its activity peaks during the early morning hours, and its deep, resonant call echoes through the forest like an ancestral voice.

Although not globally threatened, in many regions it has declined due to habitat loss and hunting. Protecting places like Refugio Los Volcanes ensures that these birds continue to fulfill their important ecological role as seed dispersers. Spotting one of these curassows in the wild is among the most rewarding experiences for wildlife observers.

Sunbittern

Eurypyga helias

The Sunbittern is one of the most distinctive birds of tropical America and the sole species in the family Eurypygidae. With its prehistoric appearance, graceful walk, and wings that display an astonishing “eye” pattern, it is a true gem for any birdwatcher.

Medium-sized, it measures between 43 and 48 cm. Its plumage is cryptic, in shades of gray and brown with fine barring, allowing it to blend perfectly among river stones and leaf litter. However, when threatened or during courtship, it spreads its wings to reveal an extraordinary pattern of orange, black, and white eye-like spots, mimicking butterflies or raptors.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, the Sunbittern inhabits the banks of clear-water streams and creeks, walking slowly among the stones in search of insects, crustaceans, and small fish. It is a solitary and silent bird, most often seen in the early morning or late afternoon. Its nest is a rudimentary structure placed on low branches near the water.

The presence of such a unique species in the refuge is a source of pride, as it not only enhances the landscape but also serves as a bioindicator of the health of aquatic ecosystems. Observing a Sunbittern unfurl its wings in the wild is an unforgettable experience that connects one with the purest essence of wildlife.

Channel-billed Toucan

Ramphastos vitellinus

The Channel-billed Toucan is one of the most emblematic and charismatic species of South America’s tropical forests. With its enormous colorful bill and distinctive call, it is easily recognized and often becomes a favorite among forest visitors.

Measuring between 48 and 58 cm in length, this toucan’s large bill, though seemingly heavy, is surprisingly light thanks to its porous internal structure. Its plumage is black with a bright yellow throat and a blue eye-ring. The bill features a striking combination of colors, including orange, yellow, blue, and green.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, the Channel-billed Toucan is observed in the forest canopy and along forest edges, where it feeds on fruits, insects, small reptiles, and the eggs of other birds. Its flight is distinctive—slow and undulating—due to the relative weight of its bill. Its call, a deep, croaking sound, can be heard from great distances.

Although abundant in some areas, this species is listed as vulnerable in certain countries due to habitat loss. Its presence at Refugio Los Volcanes is a clear indicator of the ecosystem’s quality and offers an excellent opportunity to educate about the balance between conservation and biodiversity. Observing a toucan in the wild is always a source of wonder and joy.

Military Macaw

Ara militaris

The Military Macaw is one of the most impressive parrots of Latin America, not only for its size and vibrant colors but also for its intelligence, longevity, and strong social bonds. It belongs to the family Psittacidae and is among the threatened macaw species within its range.

It can reach up to 75 cm in length, with predominantly bright green plumage, blue feathers on the wings and tail, and a distinctive red patch on the forehead. Its strong, curved bill is ideal for cracking hard fruits and for climbing. Highly vocal, it is most often seen traveling in pairs or small groups.

At Refugio Los Volcanes, Military Macaws soar over forested slopes and rest in large trees. They feed on fruits, seeds, nuts, and tender shoots. Their flight is powerful, and their harsh calls can be heard from afar, especially during the early hours of the day.

This species is classified as vulnerable due to habitat loss and illegal trade. Its presence at Refugio Los Volcanes stands as a symbol of resilience and hope for the conservation of large psittacids. Observing them flying free, communicating, and socializing in their natural environment is a profoundly moving experience.

Refugio los Volcanes

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