Colombia Soars as Global Birding Powerhouse with 1,563 Species Counted on Global Big Day 2025

Colombia has once again secured its place as the world’s leading birding destination, recording an astounding one thousand five hundred sixty-three bird species during the 2025 edition of Global Big Day. This annual international event, coordinated by eBird to commemorate World Migratory Bird Day, celebrates birdwatching and biodiversity in over two hundred countries. Colombia’s first-place finish reinforces its unmatched avian richness and positions the country as a global frontrunner in nature-based tourism.

This impressive achievement comes at a time when Colombia’s tourism sector is reaching new heights. In 2024, the nation welcomed more than six point nine million international visitors—a historic record. Among these travelers, tourists from the United States formed the largest segment, making Colombia the most visited South American country by U.S. citizens. This surge in global interest has aligned perfectly with Colombia’s expanding nature tourism strategy, driven by its extraordinary natural heritage.

A Biodiversity Giant Leading the Birdwatching World
With more than one thousand nine hundred bird species—seventy-nine of which are endemic—Colombia is home to the greatest avian diversity on Earth. The country’s success in the Global Big Day 2025 not only highlights its vast array of bird species but also reflects the growing role of communities, conservationists, and travel operators in preserving and showcasing Colombia’s natural treasures.

Trailing behind Colombia were Peru with one thousand four hundred four species and Brazil with one thousand two hundred forty-five. Colombia’s victory underscores the consistent leadership the country has maintained since Global Big Day’s inception, thanks to its varied ecosystems that span the Amazon rainforest, Andean highlands, tropical coastlines, and remote savannas.

Regions Driving the Record Count
Two regions played a pivotal role in the record-breaking bird count: the Amazon-Orinoco corridor and the Pacific coast. The Amazon-Orinoco region, a mosaic of lush forests and vast river systems, offers pristine habitats that support a dense variety of bird species. Meanwhile, Colombia’s Pacific coast—one of the wettest places on Earth—boasts cloud forests and mangroves teeming with unique and migratory birds.

These ecological zones have long drawn the attention of ornithologists and amateur birders alike. The diverse topography allows birdwatchers to witness an impressive number of species in a relatively short period, sometimes spotting dozens of rare birds in a single day.

Colombia’s Birding Tourism Strategy Takes Flight
Colombia’s consistent performance on the international birding stage is not just a natural advantage—it is the result of an intentional, well-coordinated tourism strategy. Through ProColombia, the government’s tourism promotion agency, the country has invested heavily in developing its birdwatching infrastructure and global visibility.

Efforts have included the creation of dedicated birding routes, training programs for local guides, and partnerships with eco-lodges and sustainable tour operators. ProColombia has also ensured the country maintains a strong presence at major international birdwatching events such as the Global Bird Fair and Birdfair UK, attracting attention from both travel professionals and enthusiasts.

Additionally, familiarization trips with tour operators from the United States and the United Kingdom—Colombia’s two largest inbound markets—have introduced key players in the birding travel niche to the country’s offerings. These efforts have helped position Colombia not just as a natural paradise but as a fully equipped destination for high-quality, sustainable birding experiences.

Global Big Day: A Symbol of Conservation and Community
Held annually on World Migratory Bird Day, the Global Big Day is much more than a competition. It serves as a unifying moment for birdwatchers, scientists, students, and conservationists around the world. Participants log their sightings into eBird’s global platform, generating critical data for scientific research and conservation planning.

In Colombia, the event has taken on national significance. Local communities, schools, and environmental organizations actively participate, often treating it as a festive celebration of nature. This grassroots engagement has been vital in fostering awareness about the importance of protecting habitats and bird populations. As a result, conservation and ecotourism have become tightly interwoven in Colombia’s rural regions, offering both environmental and economic benefits.

A Model for Sustainable Tourism in Latin America
Colombia’s leadership in the Global Big Day underscores its broader ambitions in the realm of sustainable tourism. The country has emerged as a role model in balancing biodiversity conservation with economic development. Birdwatching, once a niche interest, now serves as a key driver of tourism growth, supporting local livelihoods while safeguarding the ecosystems that make the experience possible.

As global travelers increasingly seek immersive, eco-conscious experiences, Colombia stands ready to meet that demand with open wings. With strategic government support, engaged local communities, and unmatched biodiversity, the country is setting the standard for how nature tourism can flourish in harmony with conservation.

Conclusion: Colombia’s Global Birding Legacy Grows
Colombia’s triumph in the 2025 Global Big Day is a testament to its unparalleled biodiversity, dedicated conservation efforts, and strategic tourism development. With more than one thousand five hundred sixty species recorded in just one day, the country has reaffirmed its title as the world’s birding capital.

Backed by a record-breaking tourism year and a robust eco-tourism infrastructure, Colombia continues to inspire travelers, scientists, and nature lovers worldwide. As birdwatchers chart their next destination, Colombia remains at the top of the list—an irresistible haven where nature thrives and adventure awaits.

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