Laguna de Sonso Nature Reserve
Facts and practical information
The Laguna de Sonso Nature Reserve is located in the Valle del Cauca Department of Colombia. It contains the last extensive remnant of original natural wetland remaining in the Cauca River Valley in western Colombia, and was declared a nature reserve in October 1978. It comprises a series of marshes and lagoons on the east bank of the Cauca River, between the municipalities of Buga, Yotoco and Guacari. It has an area of 2,045 ha, lying at an altitude of 935 m. The wetlands are affected by the introduced water hyacinth. The reserve has been designated as a protected Ramsar site since 2017. ()
Valle del Cauca
Best Ways to Experience the Place
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Western Osprey
The osprey, also known as the sea hawk, river hawk, or fish hawk, is a fascinating bird of prey found throughout the world. This diurnal raptor primarily feeds on fish and has developed several unique adaptations to enhance its ability to catch aquatic prey.
Birds
Giant (or Cane) Toad
The cane toad, also known as the giant neotropical toad or marine toad, is a substantial amphibian native to South and mainland Central America. Over the years, it has spread to various islands in Oceania, the Caribbean, and Northern Australia.
Amphibians
Capybara
The capybara, native to South America, holds the distinction of being the largest living rodent in the world. Belonging to the genus Hydrochoerus, these social animals are often observed in groups, sometimes numbering as many as 100 individuals.
Mammals
Fulvous whistling duck
The fulvous whistling duck, also known as the fulvous tree duck, is a captivating bird found in tropical regions worldwide. Its reddish-brown plumage, long legs, and striking white band across its black tail, visible during flight, make it a remarkable sight.
Birds
Vampire Bat
The common vampire bat, a small, leaf-nosed bat native to Latin America, is most noted for its unusual diet: it primarily consumes the blood of livestock, a behavior known as hematophagy. It is one of three extant species of vampire bats, alongside the hairy-legged...
Mammals
Valle del Cauca