In Colombia, Anderson Cooper discovers the surprising thrills of birding

60 Minutes Overtime Introduction to Birding in Western Colombia00:00

This week on 60 Minutes, in the mountains of western Colombia, a story about birding in a part of the country once beset by violence and fighting, now a place where birders flock. Star bird: velvet purple coronet sitting on the branch.

Anderson Cooper's Initial Skepticism and Discovery01:00

Birding was not something I knew anything about or expected to get into. Even once there, still skeptical, but got into it. Discovered the drama, like a soap opera in the trees. Hard to locate birds at first—they move fast, lots of small birds. Guide Diego, one of the most famous birders in Colombia, uses a green laser to point to birds and amazing binoculars to draw you into the drama. Birds are all over the place.

Appeal and Accessibility of Birding02:00

Birds and birding please anyone with their own challenges. Must be present, listening, eyes open—that's why birding is magical. No need for farthest national park; open your window even in urban area, listen with curious eyes and ears—birds are there.

Spotting the Pygmy Owl and Photographer's Role02:31

Pygmy owl—hardcore one. Colombian photographer Julio Monrique exceptional at catching bird action, faster than anyone, finds remarkable vignettes like nest building, birds hard to locate. Could not have told the story without him. First shot birds eight years ago filming documentary The Birders. Initially thought birders nerdy, waiting three days for a bird.