1.- WHAT IS THE NATIONAL BIRD OF PERU?
Peru is a country that stands out in many things such as culture, history and tradition. However it is also one of the places that contains the largest number of natural species in the world, among all these species highlights the Cock of the rock, also known as Rupicola Peruviana this passerine bird, belonging to the family Cotingidae is found in the Amazon area of the country and stands out at a glance for its intense orange red plumage. Of course, this information is introductory and there is still the question What is the National bird of Peru, because the answer is that the Cock of the rock is a representation of the natural wealth and the great biodiversity that exists in the Peruvian territory, in addition to the resilience and of course purity.
These distinctive features allowed that on December 11, 1941 through the Supreme Resolution 983, the Cock of the rock could obtain the title of National Bird of Peru and even today you can see that its silhouette and image are reflected in the highest value banknote of the whole country, the 200 soles banknote.
2.- ABOUT THE ANDEAN COCK OF THE ROCK
2.1.- Scientific classification
- Popular name: Cock of the rock
- Scientific name: Rupicola peruvianus
- Family: Cotingidae
- Order: Passeriformes
2.2.- Physical characteristics
Of all the species in the world, the National Bird of Peru is undoubtedly the most striking of all South America, its main characteristics are:
- Size and weight
Like many species its characteristics change depending on the gender, in this case the males are larger and can measure between 32 to 34 cm and weigh between 250 to 300 grams, however the females only measure between 28 to 30 cm and weigh between 200 to 250 grams.
- Plumage and coloration
The males of the species present a bright orange and intense red color on the head, chest and mantle while their wings and tail stand out with a contrasting black. Females, on the other hand, are characterized by brownish-gray tones that help them camouflage themselves more easily.
- Habitat
The National Bird of Peru is a species that seeks areas of mountainous jungle and cloud forest environments where the climate is more humid, regularly at altitudes from 500 to 2400 meters above sea level.
- Distribution
Cock of the rock is present in several South American countries such as Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Bolivia and Peru.
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3.- BEHAVIOR AND ECOLOGY
Many travelers still wonder, What is the National bird of Peru? And when they manage to appreciate the Cock of the rock, they understand the importance it has within the culture. The first thing to know about the National Bird of Peru is that it is a species of diurnal activity, that is to say that it is more present during the first hours of the day, its diet is mainly balanced on fruits such as berries that are abundant in its habitat, They can also ingest insects such as spiders and larbs that provide protein for their health.
The National Bird of Peru has a complex and at the same time spectacular courtship ritual, these are carried out prior to mating and are a very important step:
- First moment: All the males gather in an exposed area also known as Leks, where the courtship ritual begins.
- Second moment: The main moment where the popular competition takes place, each male of this species performs a unique dance with the intention of attracting the attention of a female.
- Third moment: Already having the attention of a particular female, the males begin the display process, at which time they show their crests and extend their plumage, at the same time making quick movements and loud sounds to strengthen the confidence of the female. female.
When the ritual is over and the female of the National Bird of Peru has properly chosen the male, mating begins (Males can mate with more than one female), then the female takes care of building the nest in rocky areas such as cliffs to take care of Predator eggs contain elements that help preserve temperature such as moss, leaves, mud and others. After the eggs hatch, she also takes care of the chicks until they are ready to leave the nest.
4.- A SYMBOL OF NATURAL DIVERSITY
“An interesting fact about the National Bird of Peru is that they are birds that love to enjoy the sun, so if you want to have the best look you should get up early and bring binoculars and camouflage clothing with you, this will help you not be easily noticed.”
5.- CONSERVATION STATUS
Although the National Bird of Peru is very important within the culture, it is still very vulnerable because over time its habitat has progressively decreased due to illegal logging of cloud forests, illegal hunting of this species as a pet exotic trade and the increasing rate of urbanization.
Conservation and awareness efforts are frequently being made to protect this unique bird, for these protected areas have been established in which organizations are in charge of preserving the species. It is important to understand that protecting its habitat also works as an indicator of the level of health of the ecosystem in general. Thanks to the fact that sustainable and responsible tourism has been strengthened in recent years, ecotourism was created that seeks to involve all visitors in a responsible way and without affecting or altering the habitat of the National Bird of Peru.
6.- WHERE TO SPOT THE ANDEAN COCK OF THE ROCK
Destined for bird watching lovers, unique places were created where nature can be appreciated in a unique way. Some of the best places you can find to appreciate the National Bird of Peru are:
6.1.- Manu National Park
It is located in the southeast of Peru, also known as one of the places with the greatest biodiversity in the world, this park was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and extends its territory from the high Peruvian Andes to the Amazon, you can frequently see the National Bird of Peru.
6.2.- Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge
It is located in the Kosñipata Valley, a place that also functions as accommodation for bird watching lovers who find themselves in the Manu Park. It is a strategic point that is close to the places where there are courtship rituals.
6.3.- Machu Picchu cloud forests
Around the world wonder of Machu Picchu it is common to also be able to appreciate the National Bird of Peru, it is a sanctuary for many species in fact so the presence of the Cock of the rock is not strange, it can mainly be appreciated by travelers who arrive by the inca trail
5.4.- Tambopata National Reserve
It is located in the Madre De Dios region and is one of the areas with the greatest biodiversity in the country. It not only offers the possibility of viewing the National Bird of Peru but also having a better view from the beginning of the courtship ritual.
6.- OPTIMAL VIEWING SEASONS
Definitely the best time of year to appreciate the National Bird of Peru is during the dry season (May to October), time of year when the climate is more stable and there is not as much rain, so it is easier to appreciate it. to bird species including the National Bird of Peru. During the rest of the year, which is the rainy season, the natural areas are more colorful and green but it is less possible to appreciate the National Bird of Peru.
You are now closer to having the best adventure of your life, you just need to include in your memories having managed to appreciate the National Bird of Peru, the Cock of the rock. Planning your trip with Auri Peru gives you security and makes you a responsible traveler. contact us and let’s discover together how to take the first step in this new experience.
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