About This Reserve

Serra do Urubu, in the state of Pernambuco, is considered one of the most important forests for the conservation of birds in the Neotropical region. Serra do Urubu protects the only premontane Atlantic Forest in the state of Pernambuco and is home to 14 globally threatened bird species and 250 bird species in total. This includes the Seven-colored Tanager, Long-tailed Woodnymph, Pinto’s Spinetail, Orange-bellied Antwren, White-collared Kite, Jandaya Parakeet, and Alagoas Tyrannulet.

The Reserve was established in 2004 by Brazilian conservation group SAVE Brasil, who has been steadily working to expand the reserve and create tourism infrastructure for visitors to enjoy. This includes a 2.4 km interpretative forest trail; an easy walking path that on average takes two hours. There are also more extensive trails throughout the forest which can be used with a local guide.

The newest feature at the Reserve is a hummingbird garden, where it is possible to see more than 20 hummingbird species! The garden has native plant landscaping, supplemented by hummingbird and fruit feeders that are visited by hummingbirds and other birds. A comfortable, covered pavilion allows for a relaxing place to set up your photography equipment and take some amazing photos!

By the end of 2019, Serra do Urubu will also have an observation tower situated in the middle of the forest.

Accommodations

  • Visitor Center

    Presently Serra do Urubu does not have accommodations for a group, but a very simple room (with two beds) can be available for short visits, with a bed and shower, at the Visitor Center of the Reserve. The town of Lagoa dos Gatos is a 30-minute drive from Serra do Urubu where there is lodging and restaurants. Lunch is also available if requested in advance.

  • Hummingbird Garden

    The new hummingbird garden at Serra do Urubu is a place you could easily spend an entire morning, or longer, enjoying the 20 species of hummingbirds that have been recorded here.

    Bárbara Cavalcante

  • Hummingbird Garden

    Bárbara Cavalcante

  • Trails

    The reserve has several trails, including one that takes you through quality Atlantic Forest habitat.

Bird Feeder
Day-Use Only
Guide Available
Hummingbird Garden
Restrooms Available
Trails Available

Reserve Information

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Bird Checklists

Tour operators who visit this Reserve

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What You'll See

  • Red-necked Tanager

    Arthur Grosset

  • Channel-billed Toucan

    Ciro Albano

  • Seven-colored Tanager

    Ciro Albano

  • Red-headed Manakin

    Una Fevereiro

  • Long-tailed Woodnymph

    Carlos Gussoni

  • Serra do Urubu forest

    SAVE Brasil

  • Serra do Urubu

    Haroldo Palo Jr

  • Serra do Urubu

    Bennett Hennessey

  • Serro do Urubu

    Bennett Hennessey

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