Feathered Tourism: Colombia Tops World’s Largest Bird Count
The South American nation is once again at the top of the world’s largest bird count, with an astonishing 1,563 species counted on Global Big Day 2025.
Photo: Manakin Nature Tours. Crimson-rumped Toucanet, found across the Colombia’s Pacific, Andean, and Massif regions.
Colombia is for the birds. It’s a pretty great place for birdwatchers too.
The South American nation is once again at the top of the world’s largest bird count, with an astonishing 1,563 bird species counted during the recent edition of Global Big Day 2025.
This achievement comes amid a landmark moment for Colombian tourism. In 2024, the country welcomed a record 6.9 million international visitors. U.S. travellers lead the way – Colombia is the number one South American destination for Americans.
The Global Big Day, coordinated by the scientific platform eBird, is held in over 200 countries each year and unites birders, scientists, and local communities to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day. In this latest edition, Colombia topped the leaderboard, outpacing Peru (1,404 species) and Brazil (1,245) to reaffirm its title as the most biodiverse nation on Earth for birds and a rising global leader in nature tourism.
Regions such as Amazon Orinoco and the Pacific were major contributors to the bird count, offering birders access to lush rainforests, mountains, and savannas, all in one destination.
“This achievement affirms our extraordinary natural wealth and our commitment to sustainability,” said Carmen Caballero, president of ProColombia, the country’s promotion agency.
“Birdwatching is more than a niche activity; it’s a growing driver of sustainable development across our regions and a vital way we share Colombia’s beauty with the world.”
Colombia’s leadership in the Global Big Day reflects more than just its biodiversity. With over 1,900 bird species, including 79 endemics, and a strategic location along major migratory routes, the country is uniquely positioned to offer one-of-a-kind birding experiences.
The Colombian tourism sector has embraced this potential, developing infrastructure tailored to birdwatchers, from specialized guides to eco-lodges and scenic trails.
This focused investment is paying off. Birdwatching has become not only a conservation tool but also a vital source of income for local communities, connecting travellers with Colombia’s incredible landscapes, wildlife, and culture.
The Country of Beauty’s wild side will be on display at the Colombia Nature Travel Mart this September. Find out more here.
