Peru’s Amazon rainforest has long been an area of fascination, but few can prepare you for the sight of hundreds of rainbow-plumed macaws flocking to feed at dawn at the ancient Collpa Chuncho Macaw Clay lick. One of the most wondrous activities in the Amazon region of Peru, a trip to this extraordinary clay lick is something you should definitely experience.
What is the Collpa Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick?
The Collpa Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick in Peru’s Madre de Dios region is a natural landform found in close proximity to Puerto Maldonado. “Collpa” is a Quechua word that means “salt lick,” while “Chuncho” is a reference to the indigenous Chuncho people. This particular clay lick is a riverbank cliff that contains ample deposits of mineral-rich clay that scores thousands of macaws and parrots.
In contrast to man-made attractions, the Collpa Chuncho is a pristine natural wonder with surprising animal life.
Why Do Macaws Come to the Collpa Chuncho?
The primary reason for the macaw and parrot invasion is the rich deposits of clay. The Collpa Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is a natural resource for the wildlife that visits it. Some of the reasons for the mass gatherings include:
- Toxin neutralization. Seeds, nuts, and fruits contain toxins that make them unsafe to eat; the clay allows the birds to eat more nutritious seeds
- Added minerals in the clay act as a salt supplement
- Serves as an antacid to help them with digestion issues
This strange but important behavior has apparently been going on for at least 2000 years.
An Incredible Natural Wonder!
As the sun comes up on the horizon, color explodes across the sky in a burst of golds, pinks, purples, and reds. A cacophony of sounds erupts as hundreds of red macaws, green-winged macaws, and blue parrots descend on the riverside clay lick. Within minutes, a riot of birds surrounds the mud pit, jostling for position to get a taste of the salty clay.
That, dear reader, is the magic of the Amazon rainforest, where wonders abound on a daily basis. Nature has blessed this area with one of the most beautiful sights in Peru.
The Science Behind it
Naturalists have been fascinated by the gatherings. From observation, they discovered the birds traveled in large groups and had a pecking order, which meant those who arrived first got the richest clay deposits. Researchers have reported additional significant insights, including:
- The macaws, parrots, and other birds came to the clay lick to satisfy their nutritional needs. The salt in the clay is an electrolyte mineral.
- Birds of prey took advantage of the rich feeding grounds to find food
- Different species arrived at different times of day to eat
Collpa Chuncho is the most famous clay lick in Peru for good reason. While other clay licks dotted the jungle, none were as famous or rich as Collpa Chuncho.
Visiting the Collpa Chuncho : What to Expect
Tree house Inn offers the full-day Collpa Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick tour, which is considered one of the prime attractions of the Peruvian jungle. Most tours will leave in the early morning to witness the gathering at sunrise. Tree house Inn staff members offer binoculars, positioning, and facts throughout the tour. You’ll also receive information about the macaw and parrot behavior, as well as an overview of the rainforest’s biodiversity. The tour includes:
- Watching the bird flock at sunrise
- A professional, English-speaking naturalist guide
- Specialist photography
- Getting close to the wildlife
- Vehicle and boat transfers and refreshments
- Additional activities such as jungle walks are available
Tourism and Conservation Impact
A visit to the famous Collpa Chuncho is not one to be missed. It also provides essential revenue needed for the conservation of the rainforest. The funds from these tours generate income that directly benefits the host country and its inhabitants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What time should I arrive to see the macaws at the Collpa Chuncho clay lick?
A: The macaws come anytime between 7:00 am and 9:00 am. The tours leave before sunrise to arrive at dawn.
Q: How many birds visit the clay lick daily?
A: Approximately 300-500 birds visit the clay lick daily, but the numbers vary depending on the season
Q: Can I photograph the birds?
A: Yes, most people bring a camera with a good telephoto lens to capture the outstanding views during sunrise, provided they have permission from the tour company
Q: Are these clay licks not beneficial to birds?
A: Clay licks are healthy for birds. This is a natural behavior that has been around for years
Q: What other animal species are likely to be seen on the tour?
A: Apart from the many species of macaws, you may also spot pink river dolphins, giant otters, toucans, and monkeys
Q: Is this tour suitable for a novice bird watcher and what fitness level should I be at?
A: The tour is suitable for a novice birdwatcher, as no special skills are required. However, you should be relatively fit as there is a lot of walking involved and there are stretches on board a boat
Q: When is the best time to visit Collpa Chuncho to see the greatest variety of wildlife, as well as macaws?
A: Although tours run all year-round, the best time to go is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. You are more likely to see wildlife during this time
Your Amazon Adventure Awaits
The Collpa Chuncho Macaw clay lick is truly an unparalleled experience that every self-professed wildlife lover should have on their bucket list. Tree house Inn provides the full-day tour of this natural wonder, where your expert guide ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience. You will see and learn wonders that will fascinate and delight you for the days to come.
Book the Collpa Chuncho Tour with Tree house Inn Now
