Los Colorados is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including several endangered species. The sanctuary provides habitat for the cotton-top tamarin (Saguinus oedipus), which is endemic to Colombia and critically endangered. Other notable species include howler monkeys, sloths, and numerous bird species such as the blue-and-yellow macaw and the crested guan. The area also supports various reptile species, including the Colombian red-footed tortoise and several snake species. Over 260 bird species have been recorded within the sanctuary's boundaries.
The sanctuary protects one of Colombia's most significant remnants of tropical dry forest, hosting over 400 plant species. Notable species include the Caribbean Royal Palm (Roystonea oleracea), various types of ceiba trees, and numerous species of orchids and bromeliads. The vegetation adapts to seasonal changes, with many species being deciduous during the dry season. The forest structure includes multiple layers, from ground cover to emergent canopy trees reaching heights of up to 30 meters. Many plant species here have developed unique adaptations to survive the prolonged dry seasons.
The sanctuary is characterized by its distinctive red clay soils and limestone formations, which are part of the larger Caribbean plains geological system. The terrain consists of low hills and undulating landscapes, with elevations ranging from 100 to 500 meters above sea level. The area's geological composition includes sedimentary rocks formed during the Tertiary period, and the red coloration of the soil is due to high iron oxide content. These geological features have played a crucial role in shaping the unique ecosystems found within the sanctuary.
Los Colorados Flora and Fauna Sanctuary was established in 1977 to protect one of the last remaining patches of tropical dry forest in the Caribbean region of Colombia. The area has historical significance dating back to pre-Columbian times, when indigenous Zenú people inhabited the region. The sanctuary's name comes from the reddish color of its soil and rock formations. In recent decades, the protected area has become increasingly important as a refuge for endangered species and as one of the few remaining examples of the region's original forest ecosystem.
The sanctuary's most distinctive feature is its network of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore different ecosystems and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. The observation tower provides panoramic views of the forest canopy and surrounding landscape. The visitor center offers educational exhibits about the sanctuary's biodiversity and conservation efforts. The presence of the critically endangered cotton-top tamarin makes this sanctuary particularly significant for conservation. The area also includes several natural springs and small streams that provide essential water sources for wildlife throughout the year.
Los Colorados experiences a tropical savanna climate typical of northern Colombia's Caribbean region. The sanctuary sees average temperatures ranging between 24°C and 32°C (75-90°F) throughout the year. There are two distinct seasons: a dry period from December to April, and a rainy season from May to November, with September and October typically being the wettest months. The area receives approximately 1,000-1,500mm of annual rainfall, which helps maintain its diverse ecosystems. Humidity levels remain relatively high year-round, typically between 75-85%.
Colombia
9.9170°, -75.1170°
1977
10
Los Colorados Sanctuary is one of the last remaining areas of tropical dry forest in the Caribbean region of Colombia. The park is home to the cotton-top tamarin, an endangered primate species endemic to Colombia. The sanctuary also serves as an important research site for tropical ecology studies.