In 2017, the Association of Field Ornithologists (AFO), Aves Argentinas (AA), and Sociedade Brasileira de Ornitologia (SBO) held a joint conference of the Americas in Puerto Iguazú, Misiones Province, Argentina. This was the Association of Field Ornithologists’ XCV meeting, the XXIV Congresso Brasileiro de Ornitología and the XVII Reunión Argentina de Ornitología. We also celebrated the 100 years of Aves Argentinas.

The congress was attended by over 540 ornithologists from 14 countries of which approximately 300 were students! The event was widely considered an overwhelming success with its importance recognized not only by the societies and attendees, but also by the broader community–in recognition of the congress, Iguazu National Park ran a concurrent photography exhibit showcasing local bird species, and the congress was covered by the local TV network. The four-day meeting was packed with exciting events, stimulating science, and plenty of opportunities for making new friends and catching up with old ones! We were incredibly fortunate to host seven renowned ornithologists, who gave plenaries covering a wide range of fascinating subjects.

Evenings were a great time to experience local cuisine, cultural traditions, and special events including ‘Jacana Jacana’, a tradition of the Sociedade Brasileira de Ornitologia in which teams act out the behavior of their chosen bird species. This year’s event was won by a team from the Laboratorio de Biología de Aves, IADIZA-CCT-Conicet Mendoza for their rendition of courting flamingos! The congress also marked the 100th anniversary of Aves Argentinas who hosted a centenary party to celebrate.

Congress attendees were treated to plentiful birding opportunities with a wide range of species seen during the morning bird walks alone! Local birding sites in Puerto Iguazú, including Jardin de los Picaflores, provided exceptional views of hummingbirds, euphonias, and tanagers, amongst other species. The surrounding area offered unique opportunities to experience local flora and fauna—the spectacular Iguazú National Park was a highlight with breathtaking views of Iguazu Falls, one of the world’s Seven Natural Wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, attendees saw a diversity of species including Great Dusky Swift, Toco Toucan, Blond-crested Woodpecker, Eared Pygmy-Tyrant, Plush-crested Jay, and the endangered Black-fronted Piping-Guan. Combined with the events of the Congress, the birds and scenic attractions made for a particularly memorable meeting.