Southern Wings partners are advancing the conservation of shared migratory forest birds by protecting critical habitats in Colombia’s Central Andes. This region is a key wintering ground for Neotropical migratory bird (NMB) species such as the Cerulean, Golden-winged, and Canada Warblers.

Colombia is home to more than 170 migratory bird species and holds a strategic position along their migratory routes. Recognizing the importance of this region, American Bird Conservancy (ABC) established the Central Andes BirdScape, a conservation initiative spanning approximately 3,934 square miles across the departments of Quindío, Risaralda, Caldas, and Tolima. Situated between 1,000 and 3,000 meters in elevation, the BirdScape encompasses mid-elevation forests and agroforestry systems that support over 70 NMB species. These areas have been identified as priorities under the Conservation Investment Strategy for Mid-Elevation Forests (Stewart et al., 2023).

Despite its ecological importance, the region faces significant threats from deforestation and forest fragmentation—primarily driven by unsustainable agricultural practices. In 2021, the Andes region accounted for 17% of Colombia’s total deforestation, second only to the Amazon.

To counter these threats, partners are working with local communities to promote bird-friendly practices in coffee-growing landscapes. The Paisajes Sostenibles (Sustainable Landscapes) project supports forest restoration and habitat connectivity by increasing native tree cover in and around coffee farms. Conservation practices also include organic production, protection of forest patches, and improvements in water efficiency during coffee processing—all designed to benefit both birds and local communities.

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