Buenos Aires is a city that never ceases to surprise. In our post today we will present a unique and wonderful option for nature lovers. If you are planning a trip to the capital city but also look to enjoy some peace and quiet while at it, then this recommendation is for you.
Ecological Reserve – Buenos Aires
A s always, an expert has helped us address this issue. This time we spoke to Diego Emmanuel Oscar, a guide for the Sandpiper Birding & Tours team, who described the significance of a Natural Reserve for the city and how fascinating bird watching can really be, along with many more details about this experience.
Diego, just like yourselves, is an inveterate traveler who has experienced his passion for birds in different corners of the world: Uganda, Italy, Mexico and almost the whole of South America. “I´ve felt this attraction for the natural world since I was a young kid”, he confessed. Nowadays he is engaged in bird watching and tells us about his own experience, while sharing with us some tips and secrets about this magic space in the Argentine capital.
Ecological Reserve
The Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve is the green lung of the city, a vital space for the preservation of the flora and fauna of the Rio de la Plata coast, as well as a meeting point of nature and the inhabitants of this great city. This sanctuary protects a key zone and is part of a biological corridor together with other local reserves such as the one in Vicente López, Costanera Norte or Rivera Norte, so that the fauna may travel naturally. Indeed, a large city always stands in the way of biodiversity. However, these spaces – especially such a large one as the Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve- are fundamental when it comes to the proper functioning of the ecosystem, mostly for birds, which find these sanctuaries as a crucial point where to rest, mate and feed themselves
Which are the spaces that most surprise visitors?
Without a doubt, it is the Laguna de los Coipos (The Lagoon of Coypus) that mainly impresses visitors for its contrast between the city and the reserve. There is one beautiful viewpoint on the side trail that showcases this discrepancy in all its splendor, and spectators here stand in awe of this incredible scenery, which lies only a few blocks away from the Pink House.
Ecological Reserve – Buenos Aires
Bird Watching: What does this experience involve?
Cualquiera puede iniciarse en la observación de aves, es una actividad gratificante no solo por la belleza de las aves, sus plumajes, comportamiento y canto si no también porque permite la conexión directa con la naturaleza, el encuentro entre amigos. Argentina cuenta con una gran cantidad de áreas naturales, parques nacionales y provinciales donde puede desarrollarse de excelente forma esta actividad.
Almost anyone may take up bird watching. It is certainly a worthwhile activity not only for the beauty of the birds, their plumage, behavior and singing, but also because this pursuit contributes to a direct connection with nature and fosters the gathering of friends. Argentina is home to a great number of natural areas as well as national and provincial parks where to engage in the observation of birds.
The best time
Spring is definitely the best season. At this time, birds molt their feathers and their breeding period starts, entailing courtship displays and extensive symphonies trying to find and attract their mate among the foliage. You don´t need to be an expert. Yet you are advised to carry binoculars and a field notebook to keep a record of what you observe.
How many species of birds can be found in the place?
To date there are some 350 species registered in the reserve, which is almost one third of the total number of birds registered in the country. So that means a lot indeed! This is one vital spot for the avifauna of Argentina.
Yellow-billed cardinal
One Story
Each day in the reserve is unique. Nature always offers something to surprise you: either the lagoon turtle spawning, or the mating of snakes. Or even some new species on the personal list of birds…This sanctuary never ceases to surprise visitors, and this is why I keep visiting this place almost weekly. I find it particularly fascinating when I walk around the place in the company of young kids and see them marvel at the sight of a lovely bird.
It may interest you: Which museums should I visit while in Buenos Aires?
Tips
– Book this experience in advance. Remember that one of our agents will offer you all the necessary information so you may include this activity while visiting Buenos Aires.
– Bear in mind the time of the year you will go bird watching. Regardless of the season, remember to always carry some water and sunblock with you.
– Always follow the experts´ recommendations when visiting the place, especially when you come in close contact with the diverse species.
Ecological Reserve – Buenos Aires
Feel like some more?
Our country boasts a myriad of natural attractions, parks, reserves, natural heritage sites, as well as a great variety of ecosystems and species. However, the great jewel of the city is the Ecological Reserve we have talked about in this post today. For those who are still in town and wish to connect with other spaces linked to nature, we would like to share some other recommendations.
Natural Sciences Museum
Located: Avenida Ángel Gallardo 470
This museum features diverse halls dedicated to nature and the wealth of Argentina´s fauna. In line with this post, there is one space that exhibits all the bird species in our country. Here you will be able to see them up close and while at it interact with some of the museum´s elements and hear the sounds made by these amazing creatures.
Natural Sciences Museum
Mamba BA
Located: Soler 5130
To close the day, there is nothing better than a setting with a cool and peaceful ambiance where to take a break. This establishment not only has been listed as one of the 50 best bars in the world, for its architecture and decoration, but it also features a delicious and nutritious menu to cater for all tastes.
Mamba BA
