Paramillo Massif facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Paramillo Massif |
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Highest point | |
Peak | Cerro Paramillo |
Elevation | 3,730 m (12,240 ft) |
Geography | |
Country | ![]() |
State/Province | Antioquia, Córdoba |
Parent range | Cordillera Occidental (West Andes) |
The Paramillo Massif (also called Nudo de Paramillo) is a large group of mountains in Colombia. It is located at the northern end of the Western Andes mountain range. This area is part of the amazing Tropical Andes system, known for its rich nature.
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Exploring the Paramillo Massif
The Paramillo Massif is found in several parts of Colombia. It stretches across the regions of Antioquia and Córdoba. Specifically, it is located in the towns of Ituango and Peque in Antioquia. In Córdoba, you can find it near Puerto Libertador and Tierralta.
Nearby Towns and Views
Many towns are located around this mountain area. These include Chigorodó, Mutatá, Tarazá, Cáceres, and Caucasia in Antioquia.
From the Paramillo Massif, you can sometimes see very far away. People have reported seeing peaks in the Sierra Nevada mountains. One of these is Pico Simón Bolívar, which is about 5,700 meters (18,700 feet) tall. This means you could potentially see over 500 kilometers (310 miles) in a straight line!
Mountain Branches
This large mountain area branches out into three smaller mountain ranges. These ranges spread northward and eventually become part of the flat Caribbean plain.
- The Abibe Mountains (Serranía de Abibe) create a natural border. They separate the Antioquia Department from the Córdoba Department.
- The San Jerónimo Mountains (Serranía de San Jerónimo) divide the water flow. They separate the areas where water drains into the San Jorge River and the Sinú River.
- The Ayapel Mountains (Serranía de Ayapel) also divide water flow. They separate the areas draining into the San Jorge River and the Cauca River. These mountains also form a natural border between Antioquia and Córdoba.
Paramillo Natural National Park
A big part of the Paramillo Massif is protected within the Paramillo Natural National Park. This park extends from the mountains down into the lower lands of the Caribbean Plain. The park is home to special natural areas. These include high-altitude grasslands called páramo and lush mountain forests. These ecosystems are typical of the Tropical Andes.
Amazing Wildlife
The Paramillo Massif is a very important place for many animals. It provides a home for some rare and special creatures.
Unique Birds
One unique bird found here is the Paramillo tapaculo (Scytalopus canus). This small bird is an endangered species. This means it is at risk of disappearing forever. The Paramillo Massif is one of only two places in the world where this bird lives.
Mammals of the Mountains
The mountains are also home to interesting mammals. One of these is the vulnerable Spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus). This bear is known for the light-colored rings around its eyes, which look like spectacles. It is also at risk, so protecting its home in the massif is very important.