Winter Birdwatching in the Sierras Chicas: A Wildlife Lover’s Paradise
As the seasons shift and winter settles over the Sierras Chicas, a few of our more tropical visitors - such as the dazzling hummingbird and the elegant fork-tailed flycatcher, migrate to warmer climates. But the vast majority of our abundant birdlife remains right here with us, making this a truly magical time for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and photographers alike.
With less foliage on the trees and a softer winter light, spotting and observing birds becomes easier than ever. It’s an ideal moment to witness the quieter, more intimate side of nature, where stillness gives way to the rustle of feathers and the occasional burst of song.
Among our year-round residents are some truly spectacular species. The majestic Andean Condor, with its enormous wingspan and graceful flight, continues to patrol the thermals high above the ridges. The Black-Chested Buzzard-eagle, powerful and striking, can often be seen perched on rocky outcrops, surveying the land.
Closer to ground level, the Crested Caracara, with its bold features and confident strut, is a familiar sight on horseback rides or walks across the hills. From the verandah, the raucous chatter of Monk Parakeets fills the air as they flit from branch to branch in the trees overhead, flashes of green and grey darting through the canopy.
Other regular visitors to the garden include the graceful Whistling Heron, the melodic Mockingbird, and flocks of Shiny Cowbirds, their dark feathers catching the light as they forage.
Venture further into the hills and the landscape opens up to reveal even more treasures. The adorable Burrowing Owl, with its curious stare and upright stance, peers out from the grasslands. The delicate White Monjita, ghostly against the darker winter scrub, flits between posts and fences. And the unmistakable cry of the Southern Lapwing echoes across the fields, a spirited reminder of the wilder heart of this place.
Of course, anyone who has ever tried to photograph wildlife knows that nature rarely keeps to a script. A great shot often comes down to a mixture of patience, timing, and a little bit of luck. But here, in the calm of the winter months, with wildlife all around and time to truly observe, the odds are very much in your favour.
So whether you're a seasoned birder, an eager amateur, or simply someone who appreciates the quiet magic of wild creatures, winter at Estancia Los Potreros offers an unforgettable window into the natural world.
