La Reserva Natural Jardín De Rocas – Colombia

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Located in Jardín Antioquia, Colombia, La Reserva Natural Jardín de Rocas, the Natural Rock Garden, is one of the most impressive natural sights and birding hotspots to see the Gallito de las Rocas, the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock. It is a small nature reserve that solely focuses on research and sightings of the Andean cock-of-the-rock. The location is often just called Andean Cock-of-the-rock lek by locals.The male Andean cock-of-the-rock is an unmistakable sight and unique bird! The male bird reminded early observers of a rooster with its appearance and characteristics, like its elaborate breeding displays. It frequents rocky cliffs and ravines close to forest streams, making “cock-of-the-rock” easier to understand. It remains widespread but its population is vulnerable due to habitat loss and significant levels of capture for international pet trade due to its striking appearance. Though, the RNSC, Reservas Naturales de la Sociedad Civil, and SILAP, Sistema Local de Areas Protegidas, aim to protect and improve the natural habitats within Colombia for the Andean cock-of-the-rock and other species alike. In 2018, Colombia was ranked among the top 3 countries with the highest number of birds, and 1,000 different species were sighted within Jardin, Colombia. You must make your reservation in advance with Luis to secure a visit to the nature reserve. Luis and his family aim to protect bird species and their habitats within Jardín Antioquia, Colombia. They have taught and contributed to the knowledge and research of the high Andean flora of southwestern Antioquia and have regulated tourism associated with birding. The Jardín de las Rocas Nature reserve is part of SILAP. Owen visited the reserve and photographed the Andean cock-of-the-rock in January 2016.