Eye of the Lear

Estimated to be over 150 feet high, this dramatic natural arch is located in the Serra Branca cliffs in the state of Bahia in eastern Brazil. It can be reached by rough 4WD about an hour's drive west of Jeremoabo, followed by a stiff hike up from the valley floor. It was somewhat jokingly dubbed "Eye of the Lear" by the photographer, Jamie Gilardi, because of the rare bird, the Lear's Macaw, that nests in this area. The numbers of these birds were reduced to around 150 by trapping for collectors, but are now up to a population of about 400. On hot days a welcome cooling breeze howls through the opening. Photo copyright by Jamie Gilardi, worldparrottrust.org.

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The Natural Arch and Bridge Society