El Gavilán
Los Wawanco Lyrics

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Cuidado con el gavilan
Cuidado no te dejes ver

"El gavilán" by Los Wawanco is a popular Colombian song that warns a young girl to be careful about the presence of a predatory bird, the "gavilán." The repeated lines of the chorus "cuidado con el gavilán, cuidado no te dejes ver" emphasize the potential danger and the urgency of being alert. The song takes on a threatening tone as the singer warns the girl that the gavilán wants to eat her. The singer cites examples of other creatures that the bird has consumed, like the camaleon and the orangutan. The song's lyrics could be seen as a metaphor for warning against predatory men or as a cautionary tale about the unpredictability of nature.

The song, released in 1970, became a huge hit in Colombia and across Latin America. It has since been covered by numerous artists and continues to be a popular party track. The song's catchy melody, call and response structure, and accompanying dance moves make it a staple of folk and tropical music. The song's enduring popularity also underscores its role as a cultural touchstone. In many ways, "El gavilán" has become synonymous with the vibrant and festive spirit of Colombia and Latin America at large.