Snapshot of a sign in Ancon Hill indicating it was a protected area and natural reserve. Photo ©Omar Upegui R.
The sign reads, “Cerro Ancon, national patrimony, protected area and natural reserve. Protect it.” After Panama assumed full control of the former Panama Canal Zone, many of its areas were declared natural reserves. It was essential to keep this area intact to generate enough rainfall for the efficient transit of vessels at the Panama Canal.
The day we visited Ancon Hill, we were lucky to find six ñeques on the hill. Neques or agoutis are terrestrial rodents of the size of a rabbit that inhabit areas of Central America, the West Indies, and northern South America. They are related to the guinea pigs and look quite similar but have longer legs. They were not afraid of us even though we were only a couple of feet from where they were.
We also encountered several toucans with their large brightly colored beaks. I had never seen these exotic tropical birds before. Toucans are brilliantly colored arboreal fruit-eating bird of tropical America having a very large thin-walled beak.
I’m sure there are other wildlife population living on the slopes of this magnificent hill. If you are touring Panama City, I strongly encourage you to include a visit to Ancon Hill. It’s a wonderful experience. Good Day.
