Photographer: Dušan Brinkhuizen   Destination: Argentina

 

 

Step into the mighty Andes Mountain range and be overawed by the sheer, jagged cliffs, deep valleys, and mighty snow-capped mountain peaks. Here, in this spectacular mountain range which carves its way through the South American continent, reaching up into the clouds, history comes alive with legendary sites like Machu Picchu and the experience of authentic Andean culture.

 

Perfectly suited to this mountain kingdom, the majestic Black-and-chestnut Eagle soars. With its imposing stature, black and brown colouration, and piercing yellow eyes, it stands out as a top avian predator. Juveniles are almost completely white and gradually darken as they age into the stealthy black and chestnut of the adults. This majestic raptor can be found in humid montane forests, where it hunts smaller birds such as pigeons and mammals such as monkeys. With large talons, excellent eyesight, and patience, they effectively hunt down their prey. It is a truly impressive predator and an awe-inspiring sight to witness in person, whether soaring through the sky or perched in one of its large nests high up in a tall tree.

 

The Black-and-chestnut Eagle has always been rather rare throughout its range but sadly, this incredible raptor is also under threat due to habitat loss and persecution as a poultry killer. These pressures have led to a population decline, and it is now considered an endangered species.

 

Spanning seven bird-rich countries, the Andes Mountains hold an abundance of treasures including large and imposing raptors like Black-and-chestnut Eagle, Mountain and Carunculated Caracaras, and the iconic Andean Condor with its incredible 10-foot wingspan! The Andes is also home to a vast array of special smaller birds including Red-bellied Grackle, critically endangered Chestnut-capped Piha, and the striking Yellow-headed Manakin which are all endemic to Colombia. The endangered Golden-backed Mountain Tanager, scarce Rufous-browed Hemispingus, and seldom-seen Pardusco are a few additional Andean highlights that are endemic to Peru while Ecuador boasts Andean endemics like the endangered Black-breasted Puffleg, Violet-throated Metaltail, endangered El Oro Tapaculo, and the critically endangered Blue-throated Hillstar which was only discovered in 2017! Additionally, the presence of rare and spectacular mammals like Mountain Tapir, Spectacled Bear, Oncilla, and Kodkod makes it clear why the Andes have always inspired a desire to return among those who visit.