As of today, peak season now, through ~July 15. Earth Exhibit tracks the live conditions and flags it the moment it is on.
Lake Junín, situated at approximately 4,080 meters in the Peruvian Andes, serves as a critical habitat for the giant coot (*Fulica gigantea*).
This species exhibits a prolonged nesting season, with peak egg-laying occurring during the austral winter months of June and July.
The giant coot constructs substantial nests using aquatic vegetation, creating large, floating platforms that can reach diameters exceeding three meters.
These nests are typically situated in open water, varying in distance from the shore, and are refurbished each season.
The species is monogamous and territorial, with both parents participating in incubation and chick rearing.
The IUCN Red List currently classifies the giant coot as of Least Concern, indicating a stable population trend.
However, the species faces threats from habitat degradation due to mining activities and water level fluctuations caused by hydroelectric power generation in the region.
Observing the nesting behavior of the giant coot offers valuable insights into the ecological dynamics of high-altitude wetland ecosystems and the challenges faced by endemic species in these environments.
Where to see it
A taste of where to see it. The full map, exact coordinates and the best timing for each spot live in the app.
| Viewing spots |
|---|
| Lake Junín Wetlands Viewing Area |
This is the short version
This page shows a taste. The app has the full list of where to see this, the exact timing, and live conditions for 1,000+ natural phenomena worldwide, so you know the moment one is genuinely worth the trip.