MACAW CLAY-LICK (COLLPA DE GUACAMAYOS)

A macaw clay-lick in the first few hours after dawn must be seen to be believed. After the first few rays of the morning sun begin to hit the eroded river bank cliff face, hundreds of parrots and macaws belonging to ten or more species arrive and alight in nearby trees. They arrive in discrete pairs or in flocks hundreds strong, depending on the species. Then, with a flapping of wings and ear-splitting squawks, they begin landing on the face of the cliff to consume small portions of the clay. Generally the smaller parrot species (Dusky-headed parakeets, Mealy parrots, Blue-headed parrots, Orange-cheeked parrots) descend first, followed by the larger macaws (Blue and yellow macaw, Scarlet macaw, Red and Green macaw, Blue-headed macaw, Chestnut-fronted macaw, Red-bellied macaw). At any one time there can be up to 500 parrots and macaws in the vicinity of the lick.

The precise reason for this spectacular behaviour is still under debate and is the subject of research. Theories suggest that the clay may contain vital salts and minerals which are usually lacking in the birds' frugivorous diet.

It is thought that the very small clay particles themselves are consumed in order to detoxify the bird's fruit diet. Many fruit and nuts, especially when unripe, defend themselves against predation using a plethora of toxic chemicals. The clay particles are small enough to mop up toxins before they get into the body.

Collpa Colorado, the largest known macaw clay-lick in the world, is located on the Tambopata river about 120 km upstream from Puerto Maldonado (4-5 hrs upstream from the lodge) and is one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in all Amazonia. The Tambopata Eco Lodge operates special excursions to the lick.