Nestled between two urban Manizales neighborhoods, Los Alcazares Ecopark proved to be a surprise highlight of the trip. Upon arrival, our guide informed us that a typical two-hour morning birding session at this location often yields 50+ species without walking more than 100 yards down the road from the entrance.
We showed up late in the afternoon with an hour of remaining sunlight, so I wasn’t expecting much. Boy, was I surprised! Our short visit had the feel of birding ADD. One after the other, in rapid succession, species were spotted and identified. All told, we saw more than 25 species. Highlights included red-headed barbet, bay-headed tanager, flame-rumped tanager, barred antshrike, and American redstart.
If you find yourself in Manizales with a pair of binoculars and a few hours to spare, check out Los Alcazares Ecopark. Even afternoon birding is sure to please.