Birdwatching in El Chalten
Bird watching, an activity gaining popularity, offers an exhilarating experience in southern Patagonia, where you can venture into its untamed wilderness and witness its diverse wildlife.
In this region, there are over a hundred species, many of which are endemic (native to the area). Some are challenging or extremely rare to observe, which is one of the greatest stimuli and challenges for birdwatchers. It’s crucial to have binoculars or a monocular to closely examine the characteristics and details that distinguish each species. A reliable field guide is also essential. If you’re planning to photograph them, a telephoto lens is highly recommended, and a light tripod would be a good addition. Ultimately, the most important factors are luck and patience.
Cóndor Andino (Vultur gryphus)
In the sky
One of the most awe-inspiring encounters is with the Andean condor (ARG) or condor (CHL), a majestic creature with a wingspan of up to 3 meters, making it one of the largest birds in the world. As a scavenger, it soars above, searching for food and gathering around carcasses to feast. In remote areas with limited human presence, these birds can form massive groups, with up to a hundred individuals congregating on the ground. When threatened, they execute a remarkable retreat, taking flight in ascending circles to gain altitude. This collective movement creates a breathtaking spectacle, a giant swarm of enormous birds, a truly awe-inspiring sight for those fortunate enough to witness it.
An impressive glider, it captivates with its size when viewed from close range. It nests on challenging-to-reach cliffs, providing an advantageous launchpad for flight. Binoculars reveal family groups stationed in distant ravines, which, from a distance, may appear as people due to their size. Perched, it’s cautious, but curious during flight, making reconnaissance flights before retreating, gliding gracefully.
Mirador Los Cóndores is one of the most accessible sites with the highest probability of sighting.
The Andean condor, one of the world’s largest birds, boasts an impressive wingspan of three meters
During flights, it can approach the spectator by performing reconnaissance flights, piquing their curiosity
Giant woodpecker (Campephilus magellanicus)
The unmistakable giant woodpecker, the largest of the American woodpeckers, stands at an impressive height of 45 centimeters
In the forest
In the Patagonian forests, a bird of extraordinary beauty resides: the giant woodpecker (ARG) or the black woodpecker (CHL). This species is endemic to Patagonia and stands at an impressive height of 45 centimeters, making it the largest among the American woodpeckers. With its agile movements and swift flights from trunk to trunk, it climbs trees in search of insect larvae, its primary food source..
The male bird has a striking red head and crest that stands out against the forest’s tones. From a considerable distance, you can hear its powerful pecking, breaking and piercing the trunks in search of food. Therefore, it’s advisable to keep your ears open while walking in the forest’s silence.
This bird is both curious and distrustful, allowing you to observe it closely. Approach it with great caution, as it may be wary of outsiders.
Torrent duck (Merganetta armata). Photo: Alejandro Bayer Tamayo
In the rivers
n the rivers and mountain streams, a small, slender, and elegant swimmer known as the torrent duck (ARG) or short-stream duck (CHL) emerges. This agile creature demonstrates remarkable strength as it navigates the icy currents and dives in search of food. After drying its plumage on the rocks that rise from the river, it takes another plunge to capture small fish and crustaceans.
The river otter, a cold-water inhabitant of swift-moving rivers from Venezuela to Tierra del Fuego, builds its nests on rocky and cliff-side locations near water bodies. It is quite wary of humans and can be easily identified by the distinctive features of its male, which include a white head adorned with black lines.
The torrent duck, a petite, slender, and graceful swimmer, demonstrates remarkable strength to brave the icy currents and execute impressive jumps
With the right information and sharpening your senses, you’ll discover the clues that’ll lead you to the long-awaited meeting
A different way to connect with Nature
Southern Patagonia is home to a diverse array of bird species. With the right information and sharpened senses, you can embark on a journey to discover these elusive creatures and embark on a long-awaited encounter.
When you set out to observe birds in their natural habitat, you embark on a unique journey of connection with nature. As you venture deeper into the forest or the steppe, you uncover its hidden secrets and gain a profound appreciation for its beauty.