Animals and Birds of Moraro

Moraro is an excellent place to hear and see some kinds of animals and birds even if one is not an active 'wildlife' spotter.

I will begin with howler monkeys. It is not unlikely to see a group feeding way up in the larger trees nearby. Howler monkeys usually feed on tender leaves of selected trees, unlike the smaller sakiwinki (capuchin) which favours forest fruits bearing on smaller trees closer to the ground. Howler monkeys are slow moving and can remain in the same place for quite a long time, quietly feeding. They tend not to be easily startled. However, I think that this is so because they are generally way up and do not feel threatened by people.

Sakiwinkis, on the other hand feeds on fruits that people eat, so is in competition with people. They tend to come in confrontation with people and seem to be on the look-out always. They can be quite cheeky and curious which is why I love them. The forest fruit trees in Moraro are a sure attraction to sakiwinkis. I love resting in a hammock quietly while on the look out for sakiwinkis which travel in groups.

Birds are numerous, especially when forest fruits are in season. The more noticeable ones are toucans, parrots and macaws to name a few.

Birds may be put into categories such as -Day and night birds, Forest floor runners, Low bush, mid-bush and high-bush.

Some are quite audible as well as visible. The macaw which travels in pairs can be heard before seen, which is good because the loud call gives an indication of the where to look in order to see them.

I love following the call of toucans. Their call reminds me of insects rather than birds and they sometimes can be seen quite nearby. They love feeding on the forest fruit warmia which are tiny, dark, sweet berries.

Lastly, I will mention my favourite bird - the waracaba. This bird which is a runner, can sometimes be heard at night and is very difficult to see. The waracaba makes a brilliant pet and is sought by locals to be kept around the home.