Colombia is home to approximately 1958 bird species, with 80 of them being endemic.

This represents nearly 20% of all bird diversity worldwide.

The country has nearly 20% of the world's total avian species, including 200 migratory species, 87 threatened birds, and 78 endemics.

Cartagena Port Oasis: See the Wildlife When You Cruise to Colombia

Toucans, iguanas, howler monkeys, and other regional animals greeted us at the Cartagena port oasis.

This was an unexpected yet wonderful surprise as we disembarked a cruise ship in Cartagena.

This award-winning sustainable port oasis is part of a 1,000-square-metre garden, sharing samples of Colombia's flora and fauna.

A government initiative, the Cartagena port oasis encourages arriving passengers to discover a variety of the country's natural resources.

It reminds us of Colombia's desire for a sustainable environment while at the same time protecting certain animal species.

Not "wild" animals per se, yet many appear to be free to come and go. There is an impressive collection of animal species at the port oasis, especially once you realize that entry is free!

The Cartagena port oasis initiative won the Organization of American States First America's Maritime Award in the category of Sustainable Tourist Destination Port.

Birds at the Cartagena Port Oasis

Cartagena is home to a variety of bird species:

Harpy Eagle ~ Caribbean Toucan ~ Pink Flamingos ~ Crown Crane ~ Caribbean guacharaca ~ Colirrufo jacamar ~ Ferina ravine ~ Dotted booby ~ Brown blackbird ~ Tiles ~ Pygmy owls ~ Squirrel cuckoos ~ Rufous-tailed jacamars ~ Hummingbirds ~ Tanagers ~ Flycatchers ~ Wrens.

The birds are in multiple areas, some enclosed while others are open, allowing the birds to come and go as they please. Nesting boxes offer food, encouraging their continual return.