The Santa Marta Mountains are the highest coastal mountains in the world (also highest in Colombia), reaching an altitude of 18,700 feet above sea level. The birding localities we visit are amongst the top ten hottest birding destinations on Earth! This is due to the fact that the area is one of the most important endemism centers in the world, with more than 30 species of birds restricted to the area. Known in Colombia as the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, a reason for the high level of endemism is the fact that the mountains are isolated from the Andes Mountains.

    The tiny, picturesque town of Minca is the first destination we visit on the way up the mountain. It is nestled in the foothills of the Sierra and surrounded by well-kept, shade-grown coffee plantations that provide good habitat for birds. Bountiful flowers in the townspeople's gardens provide for good diversity of hummingbirds, including coppery emerald and stripe-throated hermit. The river runs right through town, which adds to the birding possibilities of this locale. Up the road, the shade-grown coffee plantations give way to pristine forests.
    Once siginificant elvation is gained, the true gems of the area begin to appear. The Cuchilla de San Lorenzo is a steep ridge with a park service biological station near the top. The station has comfortable cabins with fireplaces and is set right in the middle of great bird action. Just from the cabins, one can observe Santa Marta brush-finch, Santa Marta mountain-tanager, yellow-fronted whitestart and Santa Marta Antpitta. Nearly 20 endemic species can be seen within walking ditance of the cabins! Enough said.

IRDS FOUND IN THIS LOCALITY
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