Peru’s geographical variety of coast, mountains and jungle, from sea level up to 6,768 meters (22,205 feet), creates innumerable microclimates, each with its own flora and fauna. These microclimates provide habitat for an astonishing 1,922 species of birds in Peru, with 123 endemic, as of 2024.

The most famous endemic species is the Marvelous Spatuletail (above) but there are another 14 endemic hummingbirds in Peru.

The most famous birds are usually the brightest, especially the Gallito de las Rocas, called the Andean Cock of the Rock in English. Though not endemic, it’s considered the national bird of Peru.

Global Big Day, always held one Saturday in May and one Saturday in October, is Peru’s big chance to attract birders who identify birds and record their identifications on eBird. With verified identifications, new birds are added to Peru’s bird list.

Note: Bring all your equipment with you. It’s extremely difficult to get quality binoculars, spotting scopes and cameras in Peru.