Birding in Peru II: Photography at High Altitudes

Birdwatching in Peru’s mountains is a dream for any birder. Birding opportunities vary depending on the four key habitats: lush gardens, rainforests, expansive pampas, and rugged mountains. To see the elegant Andean Hillstar from the photo, or the cautious Blue-mantled Thornbill, you will need to leave the comfort of the car and walk in the rugged, thin-aired terrain.

Birding in these areas presents a few challenges:

1. Physical demands: The terrain at high elevations can be strenuous, requiring some stamina. The altitude can be taxing, and carrying photo equipment adds another layer of difficulty.

2. Patience: Birds in these remote areas are often not accustomed to human presence, and you’ll need to be patient as you observe. Some species, such as the Blue-mantled Thornbill or the Puna Tapaculo, are more elusive and may not allow for easy sightings.

3. More patience: There will be days when the birds are more wary than usual, making it difficult to capture the perfect shot. This is especially true in the high mountain regions, where wildlife tends to be more cautious of human activity.

4. Preservation: These areas are semi-wild, and it’s important to keep them that way. The Royal Cinclodes is critically endangered, and many more species alter their behavior due to human presence. It is not recommended to have sizable birding tours visit these places. Instead, try to go individually or in very small groups of 2-3 parties.

In these conditions, for those considering birdwatching tours in Peru, high in the Andes, it is wise to follow these simple steps:

1. Take your time: Moving slowly is key to avoid overexertion.

2. Invest in portable hides: Minimize your impact on the environment and reduce stress on the birds.

3. Select your equipment carefully: You won’t need all of it there, and carrying too much can be cumbersome.

4. Choose birdwatching tours that prioritize minimal environmental impact on these unique ecosystems.

5. Be patient: With the right approach, the rewards are immense. The chance to witness rare and beautiful species like the Andean Hillstar, Blue-mantled Thornbill, or Royal Cinclodes in their natural high-altitude habitat is a truly unforgettable experience.