Buenos Aires – Argentina

About

Buenos Aires is the capital and largest city in Argentina. Located on the western shore of the Rio de la Plata, this city is known to be the most diverse in South America, colliding traditions, art, and food from around the world. Nature photographers are lucky to see different bird species wherever they travel in the city, either in rural or downtown areas. There are about 20 species that can be found in the populated downtown area. Key resources, such as water and food, are readily available, making the area a desirable location. A few species that call downtown home are the Picazuro Pigeon, Eared Dove, and Rock Pigeon. Nature photographers can spot birds all over the city, but Costanera Sur, Robera Norte, and Vincente Lopez Ecologic Reserves are ideal sites to guarantee bird sightings. All these reserves have unique birds that land there and you are likely to see 100-300 different species in a full day.

The Riverside and Espinal forests are two rural areas that have birds that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. The Riverside forest is the most biodiverse area in Buenos Aires. Birds that can be found in the trees of these two forests are the Rufous-capped Antshrike, Golden-crowned Warbler, and Red-crested Cardinal. These rural areas also have appealing marshes, streams, and lagoons that provide a great water source. Depending on the rain levels that year, these water sources can be a great place for bird photography and birdwatching alike. The marshes in the area attract many passerines. Some passerines include the Yellow-throated Spinetail, Spectacled Tyrant, and the Chestnut-capped Blackbird.

Owen traveled to Buenos Aires in January 2013.