Inka Trail Info - Birds of Machu Picchu: Condor, Torrent Duck, Hooded Siskin, Green Jay, Black Backed
Machu Picchu
Sanctuary has such rich biodiversity due to a combination of factors ??? it is within a wide altitude range, which provides a great range of temperatures, and in addition the high mountain ridges create microclimates favourable to the evolution of certain species and subspecies. Finally, thanks to the ever present rainfall of the Amazon Basin and the mist that creeps up the sheltered valleys, there is humidity year round.
Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus)
This bird can travel hundreds of kilometres and spend hours gliding majestically along canyon walls, or above hillsides looking for a carcass to feed on. Interestingly, they have difficultly taking off after meals, due to the great weight taken on during the meal. On occasion, the Andean Condor can be seen around the Machu Picchu ruins, but is more likely to be found at the higher reaches of the Inca Trail. (Size 100 ??? 130cm; wingspan 300cm)
Torrent Duck (Merganetta armata) |
