By Brit McCandless Farmer
May 3, 2026 / 7:00 PM EDT / CBS News
This week on 60 Minutes, Anderson Cooper reports from the misty mountains of western Colombia, where birding is flourishing in a region once scarred by conflict. Drizzly, overcast conditions bring the forests to life, and species like the gold-ringed tanager draw enthusiasts from around the world. What might sound dull at first quickly reveals a vibrant ecosystem hidden in the foliage.
Birding was unfamiliar to Cooper and he admits he was initially skeptical. With an expert guide spotting fast-moving birds, he became engrossed in what he described as a “drama” unfolding in the trees. Sudden encounters — vultures sweeping overhead and brief flashes of color — turned curiosity into genuine excitement.
Enthusiasts say birding’s appeal lies in its simplicity and unpredictability: it doesn’t require distant travel and birds are everywhere. In the end, Cooper came to understand why people are so drawn to it.
The video was edited by Scott Rosann.
Julián Manrique for 60 Minutes