Macaw Claylicks in Tambopata, Peru

Tambopata, Peru, often referred to as the “capital of biodiversity” is paradise to birdwatchers.  This region is home to 10% of the world’s parrot species.  A major feature is a series of exposed riverbanks along the Tambopata where Macaws go to eat clay. 

 

There are two theories as to why Macaws eat clay:

1.     To neutralize the toxins they ingest by eating rainforest fruits, nuts, flowers and leaves.

2.     To get minerals such as sodium, which they may need in their diet.

 

Some guidelines when visiting a claylick along the Tambopata river:

●      Claylicks can be viewed by boat along the river, or the opposite river bank.

●      Get up early so that you can arrive at the claylick early in the morning when the Macaws are most active.

●      Wear neutral colors and try to blend in.  Bright colors can scare the birds away.

●      Try to be as quiet and still as possible so as to allow the birds to behave as they would without an “audience.”

●      Bring binoculars!  You will be able to better appreciate these birds miraculous colors.

●      Bring a guide from Tambopata, who can help you to identify each species.

 

Where to go to view Macaw Claylicks:

●      Tambopata Research Center: Home to the famous Macaw Research Project. This comfortable lodge takes 8 hours to get to by boat from Puerto Maldonado so it best if you have at least 4 nights to stay. Spend the first and last night at Rainforest Expeditions closer lodge Refugio Amazonas and the nights inbetween at the research center.

●      El Gato: Owned by a family native to Tambopata, this friendly homestay offers knowledgeable guides comfortable accomodations and a claylick a 40-minute walk from the lodge. 

●      Majosehue: This budget option is located within the Native Community of Infierno. Don José Mishaja, a shaman from the Community, is the leader of this initiative. The location of Majosehue allows access to different interesting natural attractions and ethnobotanical garden. The parrot clay lick can be reached after walking only 15 minutes from the lodging house.

●      Refugio Amazonas : As a charming 32 bedroom lodge, it is well placed immediately adjacent to the Tambopata National Reserve. A comprehensive program includes a morning visit to the claylick, complete with guide.