OILBIRD CAVE 

Andean Birding now offers a visit to a very accessible Oilbird cave. About 1 ½ hour drive from either Mindo or Paz de las Aves, this makes a wonderful midday jaunt when the light is better, to see the Oilbirds close-up in a deep chasm. 

A short ride in the back of a tractor cart and a brief walk brings us to 3 ladders going down a stream course into the chasm. On the second ladder we get refreshingly drenched, so we will bring our swimsuits and sandals. Day roosting on the walls as close as 3m and flapping about are 1-2 dozen Oilbirds as well as 50-100 White-collared Swifts clinging in a tight huddle for a midday rest. Related to nightjars and potoos and the only nocturnal frugivorous birds in the world, Oilbirds ecolocate great distances to feed on high-fat fruits and are important seed dispersers. This is awesome and unforgettable experience to see these unique birds. 

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