2024-04-12 20:28:27
The publication in the Magazine of the Colombian Academy of Exact, Physical and Natural Sciences indicates the registration of 56 species of birds between residents and migrants in the new wetland, considered artificial due to the way it was created. David Montes-Iturrizaga —biologist, veterinarian and researcher Southern Scientific University—, who led the investigation, tells more details about the biodiversity of the place and its unexpected origin.
Un humedal accidental
The new artificial wetland is approximately one kilometer long and has been formed slowly from the interaction of treated water in the environment. Montes-Iturrizaga points out that the National Water Authority (ANA) approved that wastewater from a treatment company be dumped on the sand, in order to prevent it from being dumped on the seashore, so throughout the years years life was emerging.
“On the sand, when the water was discharged, the water began to spread to one side and since it seems that the beach area was not uniform, it began to fill some spaces. Vegetation began to generate and the vegetation brought birds and other fauna such as some lizards,” details the biologist.
Likewise, the expert states that he does not know of another wetland that has been created in a similar way in the entire capital. Also, he specifies that usually an artificial one is born through different processes, which require planning and implementation by a work team. “Simply, it is a wetland that has been formed by the influx of water released by the treatment plant.”
It should be remembered that a wetland is an ecosystem characterized by being covered with water, which varies in level according to the seasons and plays an important function in regulating the climate and the water cycle. Furthermore, it is an important area of shelter and food for birdsespecially for those who make long trips.
Various birds come to the artificial wetland in search of food. Photo: David Montes-Iturrizaga
Where is the wetland located?
The Chilca artificial wetland is located on San Pedro beach, which borders Chilca beach to the north and Yaya beach to the south. This area adjoins a space of vegetation and clearing, which in turn is adjacent to a trail track, according to the study.
The research team has asked the Municipality of Chilca for help for greater protection of the wetland due to the great biodiversity found, but a favorable response has not been obtained.
The aquatic and terrestrial plant cover extends throughout the wetland area. Photo: David Montes-Iturrizaga
Parihuanas and 55 more species of birds
«Years ago, you could see flamingos in groups of 8 in this Chilca wetland. Later, we have come to count groups of 105 to 110 parihuanas. In recent months, it decreased,” says Montes-Iturrizaga. Although the number of these large birds with pinkish plumage is variable, the biologist mentions that this place is ideal for sighting them. “It is an ideal place to see parihuanas from a distance.”
The best-known place in Lima where flamingos are usually seen is in the Villa swamps, but it is now known that the new wetland is also one of their frequent inns.
Other species of birds that have been recorded at the site are four types of ducks, cormorants, herons, plovers, seven types of gulls, buzzards, kestrels, turtle doves, pelicans and a sand owl.
Collared, red, barcino and jergón ducks were found in the wetland. Photo: Montes-Iturrizaga
“This Chilca wetland is an alternative for birds in the face of the disappearance of the Puerto Viejo wetlands because I have found around 60 species in such a small place,” says the main researcher of the ecosystem. It is worth mentioning that the wetlands to which he refers were deteriorated by urban invasions.
«This Chilca wetland is very important. Now, in November, migratory birds will begin to come from Mexico, Canada and the United States,” he says.
