The northern coast of the Maule Region corresponds to an extensive coastal fringe situated on the northern shore of the Maule River estuary characterized by its large dunes and wetlands.  Among these we find the Vichuquen Lake, the Torca, Agua Dulce, and Los Coipos Lagoons, and the Putu wetland.

 

Within these wetlands, dunes and river estuaries, we find one of the most spectacular bird colonies of the central region, where more than 130 species coexist, from migratory, to residents, nomadic and endemic birds.  It is one of the most fruitful sites of the region to find an abundance of birds and the congregation of a constant flow of migratory species.  A real sensatory delight for those who love to indulge in untouched environments.

 

Although their favorite habitat is the north of Chile, among the diversity of birds, one that stands out is the Chilean Flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis), whose presence during the winter months dyes the extensive Mataquito River estuary, easy to recognize by their long legs, slender neck, thick and curve beak, and pink colored plumage.

 

 

Birds may be observed in different concentrations, increasing their presence towards the months of spring, where large migratory flocks of swans, ducks and herons unite.  On the other hand, it is possible to encounter dozens of zambullidores, taguas and pidenes such as the Pimpollo, the Picurio, the Huala and even the Blanquillo and the Pidencito in the Putu scrubland.

 

Another of the attractions found in the extensive Putu wetland, among herons and ibis, is the fact that this place is the most important nesting place for the scarce marsh crow, seen throughout the whole year in different numbers.  At the same time, the congregation of boyera, chica, grande and cuca herons are present along the whole coastal fringe, with the possibility of spotting nocturnal herons such as the Huairavo and Huaravillo as well.

 

Last but not least, in these numerous coastal bodies of water, another big attraction is the high number of least frequent waterfront birds such as the Pilpilen, Playero semipalda, Playero pectoral, straight beak Zarapito, a diversity of Chorlos, Becacina, the three-colored Sea Chick, Perdicita, Piquerito seagull and the Rayador.

 

For those who travel towards the Curicana coast, we recommend them to take binoculars to observe this wonderful bird life landscape, changing throughout the year in accordance to the different seasons and weather conditions.

 

Related News in Chinese: 智利马乌莱——千姿百态的飞鸟栖息地