Henri Pittier National Park

Birds

Henri Pittier National Park is considered one of the most important birdwatching destinations in Venezuela, with over 500 species recorded. Its mix of coastal habitats, rainforests, and cloud forests provides a home to many spectacular birds.

Harpy Eagle (Harpia harpyja)
One of the largest and most powerful eagles in the world, the harpy eagle preys on monkeys, sloths, and large birds. It requires vast forested areas and is a symbol of conservation in South America.

White-tailed Trogon (Trogon viridis)
This beautiful trogon species is characterized by its vibrant green plumage and white underparts. It is often found perched quietly in the forest, feeding on insects and fruits.

Venezuelan Troupial (Icterus icterus)
As Venezuela’s national bird, the Venezuelan troupial is striking with its bright orange body, black head, and blue eye ring. It has a melodious song and is commonly found in forest edges and open woodlands.

Military Macaw (Ara militaris)
This large green parrot is a social and intelligent species. It is often seen flying in pairs or small groups, communicating with loud calls as it moves between feeding and nesting sites.

Oilbird (Steatornis caripensis)
A nocturnal, fruit-eating bird, the oilbird is one of the few avian species that use echolocation to navigate in the dark. It roosts in caves during the day and ventures out at night to feed on palm fruits.

Crested Oropendola (Psarocolius decumanus)
Recognizable by its striking black and yellow plumage, the crested oropendola is known for its hanging, woven nests. These birds live in colonies and produce a variety of musical and mechanical-sounding calls.

Rufous-tailed Jacamar (Galbula ruficauda)
A small, colorful bird with an iridescent green body and a long, pointed bill, the rufous-tailed jacamar is an expert insect hunter. It is often seen perching silently before darting out to catch flying prey.

Black-faced Antthrush (Formicarius analis)
This secretive ground-dwelling bird is often heard before it is seen. It forages in leaf litter for insects and small vertebrates, playing a key role in the forest’s ecological balance.

Swallow-tailed Kite (Elanoides forficatus)
A graceful raptor with a distinctive forked tail, the swallow-tailed kite soars effortlessly through the skies, hunting insects and small vertebrates while in flight.

Chestnut-fronted Macaw (Ara severus)
A smaller macaw species with green plumage and a chestnut-colored forehead, this parrot is highly social and often found in noisy flocks. It feeds on fruits, seeds, and nuts in the park’s forests.

Henri Pittier National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.

Henri Pittier National Park, the oldest national park in Venezuela, is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from coastal regions to cloud forests. This rich environment supports a variety of wildlife, including mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Below are some of the most popular species found within the park.

Jaguar (Panthera onca)
The jaguar is the largest feline in the Americas and a top predator in the park’s dense forests. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem by controlling prey populations. Although elusive, jaguars are occasionally spotted in remote areas of the park.

Ocelot (Leopardus pardalis)
This medium-sized wild cat is known for its striking coat with dark rosettes and spots. The ocelot is primarily nocturnal and hunts small mammals, birds, and reptiles. It thrives in the park’s dense undergrowth, making sightings rare but exciting.

Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris)
The world’s largest rodent can be found near the park’s rivers and marshes. Capybaras are highly social animals that live in groups and are often seen grazing near water sources.

Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)
With its long snout and powerful claws, the giant anteater is perfectly adapted for feeding on ants and termites. It is a solitary species that relies on its keen sense of smell to locate food.

Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus)
This unique bear species, native to South America, is recognizable by its distinctive facial markings. It is primarily herbivorous, feeding on fruits, bromeliads, and small vertebrates. The spectacled bear is an important seed disperser in the park’s forests.

Neotropical River Otter (Lontra longicaudis)
Thriving in the park’s rivers and streams, this playful otter species is an excellent swimmer. It preys on fish, crustaceans, and amphibians, and is often observed gliding through the water in search of food.

Boa Constrictor (Boa constrictor)
A large, non-venomous snake, the boa constrictor is an important predator within the park’s ecosystem. It ambushes prey such as rodents, birds, and small mammals, using constriction to subdue them.

Fer-de-Lance (Bothrops asper)
One of the most dangerous snakes in South America, the fer-de-lance has potent venom and a highly aggressive nature. It is often found in forested and agricultural areas, where it preys on rodents and other small animals.

Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu)
This pig-like mammal roams the forests in small herds. It feeds on roots, fruits, and small invertebrates, playing an essential role in the park’s ecosystem by aerating the soil as it forages.

Red Brocket Deer (Mazama americana)
A shy and solitary species, the red brocket deer inhabits the dense forests of the park. It is mainly nocturnal and feeds on leaves, fruits, and flowers.