Parrot Clay Lick

From the outside, all the parrots see is a natural hut, blending in with the cliff so well that it’s barely noticed. But inside, you and your expert guide hide. Through cleverly concealed windows, you have a breathtakingly clear view of the Parrot Clay Lick just ahead. There, tropical birds of every color flock — and you have a front-row seat.

The Parrot Clay Lick near our Posada Amazonas lodge is one of the best places to spy dozens of these spectacular birds. Your experienced guide will lead you on a biodiverse trail from the lodge, where you may see Macaws and other wildlife. Then, you’ll enter a comfortable, well-hidden viewing platform built out of clay and thatch. Due to its natural camouflage, this is the ideal place to spy on the nearby Parrots and Parakeets. Seven to 10 species visit the Clay Lick to munch on nutrient-rich clay, allowing you to see the incredible diversity of the Amazon all in one place!

Why You’ll Love the Parrot Clay Lick

• Spot Spectacular Tropical Birds: While watching from a hidden “blind,” you can get a super close look at up to 10 different species of Parrots and Parakeets. From tiny birds to bright, large ones, you’ll see an impressive array of jungle diversity. This includes Dusky-Headed and Cobalt-Winged Parakeets, Chestnut-Fronted Macaws, and Mealy, Yellow-Crowned, Blue-Headed, and Orange-Cheeked Parrots.


• Understand a Strange Jungle Diet: By visiting the Clay Lick, you also get to discover one of the Amazon’s remaining science mysteries. Clay Licks are cliffs near jungle rivers, which contain clay that many types of animals visit. Researchers at the Tambopata Macaw Project have studied these larger birds as they eat clay around the region. Their theory is that animals eat the clay to supplement salt in their diet, since far from any ocean, there’s very little sodium in the water or food here. Watch for yourself, and see whether you think the theory is correct!