Lajedo dos Beija-Flores: A Hummingbird Haven

Lajedo dos Beija-Flores, or the Hummingbird Sanctuary, is a remarkable destination located in the municipality of Boa Nova, Bahia, Brazil. Conceptualized by bird photographer Ester Ramirez, this sanctuary was inaugurated in December 2020 and is set within an environmental protection area, offering both comfort and close contact with nature. Covering 107 hectares near Boa Nova National Park and within the Boa Nova Wildlife Refuge, the sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers. The area boasts over 4,000 seedlings of around 70 plant species, attracting a diverse array of birds, with a special focus on hummingbirds. Around 260 bird species have been recorded in and around Lajedo dos Beija-Flores, out of the 460 species in Boa Nova. The sanctuary provides trails and platforms designed for optimal bird observation and photography. Among the sought-after species are the Slender Antbird and the Hook-billed Hermit, both endangered, and the Ruby-topaz Hummingbird, a summer migrant. Of the 24 hummingbird species registered in Boa Nova, 18 frequent the sanctuary's gardens. Boa Nova itself is a charming town located 440km south of Salvador. The sanctuary is part of a larger effort to preserve the natural charm of the region, with its founders carefully selecting the location in 2004 after being captivated by the sight of hummingbirds dancing in the sunset.