Park rangers photographed an incredible encounter with a spectacled bear family (a mother and her cubs) near the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Cusco, Peru.
In a fascinating wildlife encounter, park rangers from the National Service of Natural Protected Areas (Sernap) in Cusco captured images of a spectacled bear family. This close encounter occurred in the Huayllabamba sector, on the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, leaving the Sernanp team and nature enthusiasts in awe.
During routine biological monitoring at over 3,000 meters above sea level, the park rangers documented a spectacled bear mother and her two cubs, providing tangible evidence of the sanctuary's rich biodiversity. This species, unique to South America, embodies the essence of Andean fauna and underscores the importance of conservation efforts in the region.
In collaboration with the Spectacled Bear Conservation Organization (SBC), Sernap has strengthened its initiatives for the conservation and study of local wildlife. In 2023, they installed 100 camera trap stations throughout the sanctuary as part of a project to deepen understanding of the Andean bear and its natural habitat in the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
The results were remarkable: 29 adult bears were identified, and 18 additional mammal species, including pumas, deer, and others, were documented, highlighting the sanctuary's significance as a vital refuge for these species. These discoveries emphasize the need to preserve this unique ecosystem for future generations.
Spectacled Bear on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The spectacled bear, or the Andean bear, is considered an emblematic figure of South American biodiversity. Its presence in Machu Picchu enhances the sanctuary's ecological value and symbolizes Peruvian nature's majesty, from the heights of Cusco to the plains of Piura.
Where is Machu Picchu?
The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, located in the province of Urubamba, Cusco, spans 32,592 hectares and is home to an impressive diversity of fauna, including species such as the Andean cock-of-the-rock, the Andean condor, and the American otter.
This recent sighting of spectacled bears opens a window to Cusco's diversity and natural beauty and calls for action to protect and continuously study this national treasure.
Read More | All about Machu Picchu.