Amazon Natural Park & Nauta Caño
Awakening this morning to cool temperatures and cloudy skies, we left early to explore the canopy walkway at the Amazon Natural Park. Distant rumblings were a good hint of what was to come. A gentle paddle across a blackwater lake started our trip. Here we saw a large mound that was a spectacled caiman nest. The ruckus call of Dusky-headed Parakeets filled the air along with various flycatchers.
As we began the walk amongst some massive trees, the thunder increased and soon the skies opened. Rain in the rainforest? No way! In some ways, this is THE way to experience the forest, as everything changes drastically. The sound of the rain percolating down from the canopy was incredible, overwhelming one’s senses. Somehow, we still learned about the uses of plants, found a poison dart frog (granted, they thrive with water), and a rare two-toed sloth.
As we reached the canopy, the heaviest rain had passed and allowed for an enjoyable experience on the bridges. Standing amongst the emerald sea was a nice change from being on the forest floor. We returned back to the Delfin II and headed downstream on the Marañon River.
For the afternoon, the skies cleared and bathed us in sunshine. We explored a blackwater stream by skiff and kayak. The water currently is rising, and we were able to poke into many small areas. The air was fresh and wildlife was active. Yellow-rumped caciques were building their nests and showing off their skills in mimicry. In the kayaks, we flushed a spectacled owl, and had a close approach to some black-collared hawks. A night walk finished off our busy day enjoying the rainforest here in Peru.
