Birds of San Rafael, Antioquia: tanagers, river herons and oropendolas
The humid forest around the rivers is also good bird country. Photographer Félix Uribe alone uploaded dozens of species taken in San Rafael to Wikimedia Commons.
The "Birds of San Rafael, Antioquia" category on Wikimedia Commons holds 82 photos with the species identified. These are some that are fairly easy to see near rivers, forest edges and gardens.
Along the rivers
The fasciated tiger-heron (Tigrisoma fasciatum) hunts in fast-flowing rivers, and the buff-rumped warbler (Myiothlypis fulvicauda) fans its tail on creek rocks. The southern rough-winged swallow skims low over the water.
Tanagers and friends
The bay-headed tanager, the turquoise-headed blue-necked tanager and the golden tanager move in mixed flocks along forest edges. The lemon-rumped tanager, black with a lemon-yellow rump, is common in pastures with trees. And the crested oropendola hangs long nests from high branches.
In gardens and pastures
Near houses you will find the blue-gray tanager, the crowned woodnymph, a green and blue hummingbird, and the roadside hawk, watching from posts and dead branches. The tiny olivaceous piculet is heard before it is seen.
Who to go with
- Abakuá Tours (312 869 2207), birding and the "Aves Salseras" experience.
- La Posada de las Aves (311 727 5078), bird and monkey conservation on the Guatapé road.
- Rural reserves such as Doara or Taibará, cited by the state.
To sleep near the birds, see glamping and ecolodges. Other nature plans are in things to do in San Rafael and San Rafael river pools. If the town interests you, continue with history, church and festivals.
Frequently asked questions
What time is best for birding?
Sources
Checked on October 18, 2026. Prices and opening hours change: always confirm with the official source before you travel.