The cloud forest is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, and Mindo is one of its most privileged corners. Identifying birds in this magical environment may seem challenging at first, but with these tips you’ll be able to start birding and connect even more with wildlife.
Tips to start birding
- Observe behavior and habitat: Note where the bird moves: is it high in the canopy or near the ground? Does it feed on fruit, nectar, or insects? These clues can help you narrow down IDs.
- Pay attention to colors and shapes: Although forest light can be dim, many birds have distinctive details: the toucan’s bill, the forked tail of a flycatcher, or a manakin’s mask. Take notes or photos (even blurry ones can help!).
- Listen to their calls: Each species has its own song. Sometimes it’s easier to hear them than see them. Apps like Merlin Bird ID can help you recognize sounds in real time, even offline.
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Start with the common ones:
- Blue-gray Tanager: Vibrant blue plumage, very active in gardens and forest edges.
- Swainson’s Toucan (Ramphastos swainsonii): Large multicolored bill, deep vocalizations.
- Andean Hummingbird: Fast and brilliant, visits red and purple flowers.
- Andean Motmot: Green body, racket-shaped tail, often perches motionless on open branches.
- Go with a local guide: Nothing replaces the expertise of a trained guide who knows the sounds, behaviors, and microhabitats. At Sacha Expeditions, our birding outings are led by experts who share their knowledge with passion and patience.
Conclusion
Birdwatching is an exercise in presence, attention, and connection with the environment. We hope this guide helps you begin your birding journey and discover why Mindo is considered a paradise for birders.