Story perspectives

Colombia Sets Record 1,566 Species, $11B Bird Tourism

5/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

On May 9 2026, Colombia recorded 1,566 bird species, topping the Global Big Day birdwatching event.
More than 4,200 observers submitted nearly 15,000 checklists nationwide, with Meta reporting 714 species and Caldas a record 594.
Birdwatching tourism, which the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism says creates economic opportunities for rural communities, has generated revenues surpassing US$11.2 billion and attracted over 22 million international visitors in recent years.

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Story summary

On May 9 2026, Colombia recorded 1,566 bird species, topping the Global Big Day birdwatching event.
More than 4,200 observers submitted nearly 15,000 checklists nationwide, with Meta reporting 714 species and Caldas a record 594.
Birdwatching tourism, which the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism says creates economic opportunities for rural communities, has generated revenues surpassing US$11.2 billion and attracted over 22 million international visitors in recent years.