Birdwatching in the Cerrado: toucans, macaws and where to see them

The Cerrado is the most biodiverse savanna on Earth and home to hundreds of bird species. Around Lake Corumbá IV, native forest and water create an ideal setting for birding — often without leaving the property.

Species you might see

• Toco toucan: the largest toucan, with an unmistakable orange bill. It has been photographed right at Espaço Rreserva.
• Blue-and-yellow macaw: usually flies in noisy pairs.
• Red-legged seriema: a long-legged bird with a call that carries for miles.
• Curl-crested jay: curious and social, moving in groups.
• Herons and cormorants: along the lakeshore.
• Burrowing owl: often seen by day in open fields.

Best times

Birds are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. A coffee on the patio at 6:30am can bring more sightings than a midday hike.

What to bring

• Binoculars (8x42 is a great start).
• A camera with zoom or a phone with a telephoto lens.
• A bird ID app with South American species.
• Neutral-colored clothing and patience.

Ethical birding

Keep your distance, avoid excessive playback, never feed birds and stay away from nests.

Combine birding with a kayak trip — see our lake guide.