Riscos de Momostenango National Park

Popular

Riscos de Momostenango National Park, located in the Western Highlands of Guatemala, is renowned for its unique sandstone formations and rich biodiversity. The park’s diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife species. Here are some of the more popular species found in the park:

White-nosed Coati
A member of the raccoon family, the white-nosed coati is easily recognizable by its elongated snout and distinctive facial markings. These omnivorous mammals are often seen foraging during the day and are known for their sociable nature.

Kinkajou
Also known as the “honey bear,” the kinkajou is a nocturnal mammal with a prehensile tail, large eyes, and a keen sense of smell. Despite being carnivorous, it primarily feeds on fruit and nectar.

Guatemalan Black Howler Monkey
Known for their deep, resonant howls, these primates are among the largest in the region. They live in social groups and are primarily folivorous, feeding on leaves, fruits, and flowers.

Deppe’s Squirrel
A tree-dwelling rodent, Deppe’s squirrel has a reddish-brown coat and bushy tail. It is commonly found in forested areas, feeding on nuts, seeds, and fruits.

Central American Agouti
This small, burrowing rodent has a sleek body and short ears. It plays a crucial role in seed dispersal, feeding on fruits and nuts, and often burying them for later consumption.

Jaguarundi
A small wild cat with a slender body and uniform coat color, the jaguarundi is elusive and primarily diurnal. It preys on small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Ocelot
This medium-sized wild cat has a distinctive spotted coat and is mostly nocturnal. Ocelots are solitary hunters, feeding on small to medium-sized prey, including mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Nine-banded Armadillo
Recognizable by its armored shell, the nine-banded armadillo is a nocturnal mammal that feeds on insects, grubs, and other invertebrates. It is known for its digging habits and can often be seen foraging at dusk.

Collared Peccary
Resembling a wild pig, the collared peccary has a coarse coat and a distinctive white collar around its neck. These social animals forage in groups, feeding on roots, fruits, and small vertebrates.

Gray Fox
A small canid with a grizzled gray coat, the gray fox is unique among foxes for its ability to climb trees. It is omnivorous, feeding on small mammals, fruits, and insects.

Birds

In addition to its diverse mammalian fauna, Riscos de Momostenango National Park is home to a variety of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Here are some of the notable birds found in the park:

Resplendent Quetzal
Renowned for its vibrant green plumage and long tail feathers, the resplendent quetzal is a symbol of Guatemala. These birds inhabit montane cloud forests and feed on fruits, insects, and small vertebrates.

Highland Guan
A large, turkey-like bird with dark plumage and a distinctive red throat wattle, the highland guan is typically found in highland forests. It feeds on fruits, leaves, and insects.

Horned Guan
This rare and distinctive bird has a unique red horn-like casque on its head. Inhabiting cloud forests, the horned guan feeds on fruits, leaves, and invertebrates.

Pink-headed Warbler
A small songbird with a striking pink head and chest, the pink-headed warbler is found in highland pine-oak forests. It feeds on insects and spiders.

Azure-rumped Tanager
This colorful bird displays a mix of blue and green plumage. Inhabiting humid forests, the azure-rumped tanager primarily feeds on fruits and insects.

Black-capped Swallow
Recognizable by its black cap and white underparts, this swallow breeds in highland regions and feeds on flying insects.

Wine-throated Hummingbird
A tiny hummingbird with iridescent plumage and a distinctive wine-colored throat patch, it inhabits montane forests and feeds on nectar and small insects.

Blue-throated Motmot
This bird features vibrant blue and green plumage with a distinctive racket-tipped tail. It resides in forested areas and feeds on insects, small reptiles, and fruits.

Bushy-crested Jay
A social bird with striking blue and black plumage and a bushy crest, it is often found in groups foraging for fruits, insects, and small vertebrates.

Black-headed Siskin
A small finch with a black head and bright yellow body, the black-headed siskin inhabits open areas and forest edges, feeding on seeds and insects.

Visitors to Riscos de Momostenango National Park can enjoy observing these species amidst the park’s stunning natural landscapes.