For Global Big Day 2025, we will be raising funds to ensure the continuity of our critical conservation programs.
Global Big Day (GBD) is fast approaching, and bird lovers are gearing up for an exciting adventure in nature. Organized by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, GBD takes place annually on the second Saturday of May—this year, it’s Saturday, May 10th, 2025. On this day, bird enthusiasts and nature lovers around the world head outdoors to document as many bird species as possible in just 24 hours. These observations help scientists monitor bird populations, track migration patterns, and identify habitats in need of conservation.
What makes GBD truly special is that it’s open to everyone—whether you’re an expert birder or just starting out, there’s a place for you in this global effort to understand and protect the incredible diversity of birdlife.
Compete for the Cause: Join Our Team Challenge!
We’re thrilled to bring back our popular teams competition, and we’d love for you to be a part of it! Both national (individual islands) and multinational teams are invited to join in the effort to make a lasting impact on the birds and ecosystems of the Caribbean. We’re especially eager to see a team representing each Caribbean island, so if you don’t see your island listed here, now’s your chance to step up and take the lead (more details below).
In addition to hosting what is (unofficially) the most exciting birding competition in the region, we’ll also be raising funds to support our programs. These initiatives focus on capacity building, research, education, and outreach. This year’s fundraising theme, Help BirdsCaribbean Keep Soaring, is a call to action that ensures the continued success of our important work.
Why We Really Need Your Support this Global Big Day
Recent federal funding cuts have significantly impacted key programs that are vital to both Caribbean bird conservation and the well-being of the communities that live alongside them. Initiatives like the Caribbean Waterbird Census, the Caribbean Landbird Monitoring, and the Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival, among others, are at risk of not achieving their goals—such as providing critical training and resources to hundreds of Caribbean conservationists, conducting year-round monitoring of threatened migratory and resident species, and informing conservation actions that benefit both wildlife and local communities.
EAG step up their CWC efforts with a training event. (Photo by Sherrel Charles)
Shorebirds like the Short-billed Dowitcher and Stilt Sandpiper are long distance migrants that spend part of their year in the Caribbean. (Photo by Mark Yokoyama)
Daniela and Elvin take a closer look at a bird’s wing while another participant John Holas looks on. (Photo by Josh Covill)
Grenada Dove at Mt. Hartman – Grenada’s National Bird and found only in Grenada at 2 locations. It is Critically Endangered and one of the rarest birds in the world. (Photo by Greg Homel)
Take Action: Help Us Make a Difference
We are calling on you to unite with local birders to help bring attention to your island’s irreplaceable and incredible diversity of birds as well as the BirdsCaribbean programs that enhance our understanding and drive the action needed to protect these iconic species.
By participating, you and your team will play an important role in advancing our understanding of Caribbean birds and their habitats, showing the world just how incredible your island is.
Let’s Make This Year the Best Yet!
Last year we had 29 teams compete with members spanning across 39 countries and raising over $25,000US for scholarships for Caribbean conservationists. This year let’s take it to the next level—more islands, more energy, more data—and show the world how passionate and serious we are about bird conservation!
24 Joyous Hours of Birding, Exploring, and Making Friends!
During peak migration time in the spring, birders around the world head out to their favorite birding spots, or venture into new areas, to see, hear and record as many bird species as they can in a 24-hr period of time. Global Big Day runs from midnight to midnight in your local time zone. The data is entered into eBird checklists (more about using eBird below).
Surfrider Foundation Puerto Rico’s small but dedicated birding group at Playa Table Rock for CEBF and GBD 2024. (Photo by Surfrider Foundation Puerto Rico)
No matter where you are—at home, a botanical garden, beach, river or nature reserve—you can contribute important data about the birds around you. You don’t need to be an expert birder or spend the entire day looking for birds. Just 10 minutes of birding in your backyard or from your balcony will count too. Imagine, while enjoying your morning coffee, you can also be contributing valuable data for bird conservation.
Get Social for GBD: Team Up and Bird Together!
If you’re looking to make your GBD experience more social, consider teaming up with a friend or group. Pairs or groups can carpool, help out with tricky bird IDs, share equipment like spotting scopes.. and possibly snacks! We are calling on our community to bird together in virtual teams during Global Big Day and engage in friendly competition to see which team can:
collectively see the most species of birds, and
raise the most funds.
Additional recognition will be given to
the team with the best outfit (we know you’ve got swag)!
the “country/island team” that sees the highest proportion of their birds on Global Big Day (to control for differences in the number of species on each island!)
the team with the best “find” of the day (unusual, rare, plumage aberration, etc.)
the team with the best bird photo of the day (must be posted on eBird along with your list)
Last year the Piping Pawis from Trinidad and Tobago and the Gundlach Team from Cuba swept the competition. Will your team be the one to dethrone these champs?
The Best Global Big Day Starts with the Right Prep!
Ready to make the most of Global Big Day? Joining our teams competition is easy—just follow these simple steps to prepare for a successful birding adventure!
Step 1: Get Set Up with eBird First things first, if you don’t already have one, download the eBird app and set up your account. You will need it to submit your checklist/s! It’s FREE and you can sign up here! Don’t forget to check out Getting Started with eBird to get familiar with the app.
Entering data into eBird. (Photo by Holly Garrod)
Step 2: Join Your Island Team By joining your island team, you’ll gain access to shared resources—if you don’t have binoculars or a field guide, other birders may be able to share.
If you wish to purchase a field guide, we recommend Birds of the West Indies, Second Edition field guide is available for purchase here. If you’re birding in the Lesser Antilles, this guide is highly recommended.
Chances are that your island already has an existing team! Team Up by heading over to our Givebutter BC GBD Teams page to find your team! Just click the ‘JOIN A TEAM’ button on the campaign page to get started.
Step 3: Choose Your Birding Location/s Choose your birding location carefully. Local parks, nature reserves, and wetlands offer a wide range of species. Team leaders will be your best resource for advice on where to go and the best times to visit.
A wetland in Puerto Rico. (Photo by Rafy Rodriguez)
Want to Create Your Own Team?
Not seeing a team for your island and want to create your own? We love your initiative! Just email Lisa.Sorenson@BirdsCaribbean.org to get set up. We’ll help you with the groundwork (including setting up your eBird trip report!) so that you and your crew can soar to GBD success! After setup, you’ll have full control to manage it, so be sure to really make it your own with a fun name, photos, and your own lingo.
All team leaders and members should then invite family, friends, colleagues, and members of your birding community to join your team and/or donate to your team. It helps to set your own personal fundraising goal to help your team reach its overall goal!
By inviting people to your team, you’ll be:
raising awareness for BirdsCaribbean and the critical bird research and conservation work we do in the region,
helping to raise funds to sustain our critical programs , and
promoting Global Big Day, citizen science, and the importance of conserving birds and their habitats.
If you can’t join the GBD team competition fun this year, you can still show support by making a donation.
We hope everyone, whether or not they join a team or fundraise, will commit to spending some time (or the entire day!) birding on Global Big Day (May 10), being sure to keep track of what you see and then entering that information into eBird.
Male Hispaniolan Crossbill (Photo by Dax Roman)
A gorgeous Yellow-throated Warbler, North Caicos. (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Green-winged Teals in flight, their green wing-patches clearly visible. (Photo by Andrew Reding)
Red Knot in August molting from breeding plumage to plain winter plumage which is all gray. Red Knots have declined markedly in the last 25 years. Some Red Knots winter in the Caribbean; many use the islands as a refueling stop on their long journeys to South America. (photo by Hemant Kishan)
The Cuban Tody is one a five tody species- all endemic to the Caribbean. ( (photo by Wayne Fidler; Macauley Library ML 98811491)
Lesser Antillean Bullfinch in St Vincent. (Photo by Jeff Gerbracht)
Jamaican Mango, perched. (Photo by Clive Daelman)
A pair of Hudsonian Godwits in Barbados. (Photo by John Webster)
Your support helps us keep soaring through 2025 and beyond
The insular Caribbean is a critical region for birds. There are 185 species that occur here and nowhere else in the world! In addition, the islands provide a winter home for numerous migrants—many stay 6 months or longer while others rely on the islands as stopover sites to rest and refuel during their long journeys north and south.
Building a strong regional conservation community is essential for the sustainable preservation of island birds and their habitats. Our programs are designed not only to protect bird species but also to empower the communities that play a vital role in conservation. However, recent funding cuts have threatened the continuation of these vital programs. Without adequate support, research and monitoring, capacity-building initiatives and career development opportunities for local communities are at risk. We rely on your help to ensure these programs remain in place, strengthening local knowledge and skills to manage and protect the natural environments that sustain the unique avian biodiversity of the Caribbean.
How your gift will be Used
This year, we are fundraising to ensure the continuity of our critical conservation programs, bridge the funding gap caused by federal cuts, and empower even more conservationists, scientists, and communities to protect and restore the vital birdlife and habitats of the Caribbean.
As with everything in the Caribbean, we will be successful when our whole community pitches in, so let’s do this together! We need your help to do this!
The links for the field guides are “affiliate” links. If you purchase through these links, a portion of the sale supports BirdsCaribbean at NO additional cost to you. Thank you!
With passionate fervor, the Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival is more than just an event—it’s a vibrant celebration of Caribbean birds and the communities that cherish them. This unique festival connects people to their cultural roots and natural heritage, offering much more than a gathering of experts. It’s a chance to behold the beauty of the region’s birdlife and be part of something that unites us all in the shared love of birds and country.
For over two decades, the Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival (CEBF) has brought together tens of thousands of people of all ages to celebrate the extraordinary birds that sing, swoop, and soar exclusively through our islands. The festival runs from April 22nd to May 22nd, offering a month-long celebration of our iconic birds, under the theme Shared Spaces: Building Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities. If you’re in the Caribbean, chances are there’s an event taking place on your island!
Each event offers fun activities that give you the chance to learn, share, and take action for a brighter future for Caribbean birds and your island. Whether you’re a seasoned birder, a curious nature lover, someone eager to flex your creative muscles, or looking for something fun to do, the CEBF welcomes you to join the celebration.
Presenting seven reasons (there are way more, but we don’t want to exhaust you) why you simply cannot miss this year’s CEBF!
1. The Stellar Lineup
Ever seen a bird tremble or scoop its meal mid-air? What about a bird with a crossed bill or looks like a perfect scoop of cookies n’ cream ice cream? The dazzling diversity of birdlife in the Caribbean can feel unreal! From the iridescent plumage of our hummingbirds to the mighty wingspan of raptors, and the enchanting songs of warblers, this festival is all about discovering and celebrating the icons of the Caribbean bird world.
Green-throated Carib – one of 3 endemic species of hummingbirds in Antigua and the Lesser Antilles. (Photo by Nick Hollands)
Male Hispaniolan Crossbill, one of our featured birds during CEBF2021. (Photo by Dax Roman)
Barbuda Warbler. (Photo by Jeff Gerbracht)
The Puerto Rican Tody, locally named San Pedrito, is one of the five tody species endemic to the Caribbean.
New to CEBF? Don’t worry—our experienced educators and coordinators will be with you every step of the way, ensuring you don’t miss a single moment of the action. Whether you’re spotting a bird for the first time or marveling at the antics of a local endemic, they’ll guide you and make sure you get the most out of the experience.
Key West Quail-Dove (Photo by Doug Greenberg)
St Lucia Parrot. (Photo by Horst Vogel)
Bahama Swallow swoops low to the ground. (Photo by Brendan Fogarty)
Juvenile Gundlach’s Hawk .(Photo by Maikel Cañizares)
2. Rekindle Your Sense of Wonder
CEBF events allow you to reignite the uninhibited curiosity and wonder you had as a child. You will learn fascinating facts about birds and their habitats, explore your country through birdwatching trips, and experience the thrill of discovery. Not the outdoorsy type? No problem! Our educators and coordinators know how to have fun off trails too! They offer insightful webinars and in-person presentations, quizzes, crafts, and bird-centric games.
It’s a reminder that conservation can be experimental, creative, accessible—and absolutely captivating!
3. Top-Tier Events, Hosted by Local Experts
Every CEBF event is an experience: meticulously curated by educators and coordinators who know the ins and outs of the local birdlife. These dedicated individuals volunteer their time and skills to ensure that each activity is entertaining, educational and enriching, with a focus on making memorable moments for attendees.
Dr. Lourdes Mugica and the Bird Ecology Group share educational materials on birds with the local community and children, Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival, Cuba.
They ensure every event is accessible and impactful. Whether it’s an outdoor birdwatching trip or an indoor workshop, the event location is often chosen for its accessibility and safety, ensuring that all participants, regardless of age, can join in. Activities are designed to cater to all levels of experience—from first-timers to seasoned birders—so everyone can enjoy and learn something new.
Talking birds: Justin Saunders (BirdLife Jamaica) lends a listening ear to a young birder. (Photo by Stuart Reeves)
One of the participants from SCIENCE’s 2024 bird festival at the Sandy Bay Primary School in St. Vincent and the Grenadines shared their feedback on their CEBF experience:
“I had sooo much fun at the event! The displays were super cool, and the activities were awesome. I really liked the quizzes and the coloring area where I could just chill and color bird pictures. I was excited about the chance to win prizes too! It was really cool to see all the stuff people use to watch and study birds. The PowerPoint was fun, and I liked hearing the bird sounds, especially the Whistling Warbler and the St. Vincent Parrot. It was such a fun and learning-filled day!”
Collaboration is key: our event organizers work closely with local schools, community groups, and other institutions to create events that feel inclusive and connected to the community. Sustainability is also at the heart of what we do—eco-friendly practices are embedded throughout, from the materials we use to the messaging we share on conservation.
While most events are free of charge, we encourage you to consider making a donation to support the host organization.
Need we say more? Check out the calendar of CEBF events below, head out to the festival happening in your country, learn about your unique birds, take photos, and, if you post them to Instagram, tag us @birdscaribbean!
Click on this image to download the CEBF 2025 calendar of events.
Note: This calendar will be updated regularly with more CEBF events throughout the Caribbean, so sign up for our mailing list to get the latest details about the fabulous and fun celebrations happening on your island!
4. The Feel-Good Vibes
There’s something magical about being surrounded by people who share a love for nature and a passion for uplifting one’s country. CEBF events bring together friendly, like-minded people who are committed to making a positive environmental impact and to elevating their local communities.
Iguaco (Puerto Rican Parrot mascot) from USFWS with Amigos de El Yunque. (Photo by Amigos de El Yunque)
Surfrider Foundation Puerto Rico’s small but dedicated birding group at Playa Table Rock for CEBF and GBD 2024. (Photo by Surfrider Foundation Puerto Rico)
Children and ARC Conservation members wear their hand crafted masks.
Beginner and experienced birders joined Gaea Conservation Network for their event.
These events offer spaces for connections to be made and collective action taken. Whether you’re bonding with fellow bird enthusiasts, learning something new, or just enjoying the beauty of the moment, you’ll leave each event with a deeper sense of belonging, feeling inspired, and empowered to make a positive difference.
You can protect birds through simple actions right at home like gardening with native plants, keeping your surroundings clean and your pet cats indoors, and even volunteering with local environmental organizations. Every small action contributes to creating a safer, more sustainable world for birds and people.
Learning about Caribbean endemic birds and why birds matter at the CEBF Bird Fair in Antigua.
5. More Green Time
Less screen time. The CEBF is held at the end of the dry season when nature is luxuriant and the weather is warm. Attending a CEBF event is the perfect excuse to step outside, stretch your legs, and forget about the traffic and work deadlines. Being in nature offers both mental and physical exercise—spotting birds sharpens your senses and boosts your focus, while a walk through a botanical garden, wetland or forest gets your heart pumping. Plus, spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.
Blue and John Crow Mountains (Photo by Jamaica Conservation and Development Trust)
A wetland in Puerto Rico. (Photo by Eric Torres Rivera)
Glenroy Gaymes birding with son Maeson in the St Vincent Botanical Gardens. (Photo by Joanne Gaymes)
Beautiful Dominica.
6. Where Art Meets Science
At the CEBF, birdwatching is just the start! It’s a celebration of how birds inspire creativity and culture. From photography and art exhibitions to storytelling and bird house building workshops, the festival showcases the beautiful ways art and science intersect.
7. Challenge What You Know About Nature
At the CEBF, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with experts and learn about bird identification, interesting physical and behavioural adaptations and how technology is being used to efficiently monitor and protect birds. Attending offers a chance to broaden your understanding of both nature and the community’s efforts to protect it. After attending the CEBF, you’ll walk away not only with new knowledge, but with a sense of excitement and purpose, and perhaps even with a few new ideas to explore further.
Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Here’s our CEBF 2025 events calendar with dates, events and locations. If you don’t see your island listed, use our CEBF Coordinators Directory to contact your local organizations to find out what’s happening on your island.
Don’t miss out—join the celebration, make new memories, and be a part of something amazing for birds and your island!
The Journal of Caribbean Ornithology (JCO) continues to publish peer-reviewed research that advances our understanding of Caribbean birds and ecosystems, providing critical insights for conservation. In this annual roundup, the JCO staff is proud to highlight the outstanding work of researchers across the Caribbean.
Volume 37 features a wide range of studies, including population dynamics, habitat use, bird behavior, and monitoring methods. Of the 13 articles, four focus on nocturnal or elusive species, providing valuable information for conservation planning. This issue also reflects JCO’s deep ties to the Caribbean bird science and conservation community, as reflected in two In Memoriam tributes to Virginia Sanz D’Angelo and Orlando Garrido, two esteemed ornithologists who passed away this year. Additionally, Steven Latta contributes another installment of “Recent Ornithological Literature” and three insightful book reviews.
We are deeply grateful to our dedicated team of editors, reviewers, copyeditors, translators, proofreaders, and production specialists, whose hard work ensures the continued excellence of our publications. We also extend our appreciation to the 77 authors who entrusted JCO to share their open-access research. With the support of our non-profit partner, BirdsCaribbean, JCO remains committed to fostering early-career researchers, publishing content in three languages, and maintaining an open-access archive dating back to our very first volume in 1988. Join us in sustaining this vital resource—become a JCO supporter today!
Christopher C. Rimmer, Nicasio Viña Davila, John D. Lloyd, Yves Aubry, Carmen Placencia León, Yasit Segovia Vega, Freddy Rodríguez Santana, Jose Ramon Fuentes, and Alejandro Llanes Sosa
The elusive Bicknell’s Thrush breeds in a narrow corridor along the eastern U.S. and Canada and overwinters exclusively in the Greater Antilles, primarily in Hispaniola. However, other islands, including Cuba, also play a key role in its wintering habitat mosaic. In this paper, Chris Rimmer and colleagues present findings from their long-term research on Bicknell’s Thrush in Cuba, which began in the late 1990s. Their study maps the species’ distribution and assesses its status in Cuba, providing valuable insights into how to protect this vulnerable migratory bird throughout its annual cycle.
Leanne A. Grieves, Quinlan M. Mann, Michael J. Morel, and James S. Quinn
National parks and wildlife refuges play a vital role in conserving native birds, especially endemic and endangered species. The Puerto Rican Nightjar, once believed to be extinct from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s, now thrives in a network of state forests in southern and southeastern Puerto Rico. In this research note, Grieves and colleagues describe the first records of the species within the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge. Their findings underscore the importance of protected areas for species recovery and highlight the need for further surveys to assess the nightjar’s population status and habitat use.
Some widespread species remain poorly studied, like the elusive Stygian Owl (Asio stygius siguapa). This owl has a fragmented distribution across Central and South America and the western Caribbean. The Cuban subspecies, A. s. siguapa, inhabits Isla de la Juventud, a special municipality south of mainland Cuba, but is rarely observed. In this research note, Amaro-Valdés shares new insights into the species, including descriptions of its nest and eggs, diet, and distribution on the island. These observations contribute valuable knowledge to the life history and ecology of this mysterious Neotropical owl.
Luis A. Ramos-Vázquez, Nahíra Arocho-Hernández, Cielo Figuerola-Hernández, José L. Herrera-Giraldo, Eduardo A. Ventosa-Febles, Ana M. Román, and Silmarie Padrón
Just off the west coast of Puerto Rico lies Desecheo Island, a small, uninhabited island managed as a National Wildlife Refuge. Home to several seabird species, the island also harbored invasive mammals that preyed on breeding birds. After an extensive eradication effort, Desecheo was declared free of invasive mammals in 2017, allowing seabird populations to recover. In this article, Ramos-Vázquez and his team report the first evidence of Audubon’s Shearwaters nesting on the island, marking a hopeful sign for the species’ future in the region.
Howard P. Nelson, David N. Ewert, Mark Hulme, Daniel J. Lebbin, Jennifer Mortensen, Holly Robertson, Bonnie Rusk, Lisa Sorenson, Ann M. Haynes-Sutton, Adrianne Tossas, Amy Upgren, George E. Wallace, Maya Wilson, and Eleanor S. Devenish-Nelson
Identifying priority conservation issues is a critical first step to conservation action, as threats to species and biodiversity are often too numerous and complicated to tackle all at once. This holds especially true for endemic and threatened birds in the Caribbean, where habitat loss and degradation, invasive species, and climate change (to name a few) all interact to drive species declines. In 2022, the Endemic and Threatened Species Working Group (ETSWG) conducted a survey to assess conservation priorities for Caribbean birds and evaluate the region’s capacity to address these challenges. In this conservation report, ETSWG members share key findings from the study and outline recommendations to strengthen avian conservation efforts in the Caribbean.
Thomas W. Sherry, José González Díaz, Felisa Collazo Torres, Raúl A. Pérez-Rivera, Justin Proctor, Herbert Raffaele and Adrianne Tossas
Endemic species are often a source of national pride, garnering love and support even from people with otherwise little connection to nature. The Puerto Rican Tody (Todus mexicanus)—an adorable and charismatic bird—belongs to the Todidae family, which is found only in the Caribbean. However, its scientific name is misleading and geographically inaccurate. How did this Puerto Rican endemic end up with a name referencing Mexico? And could this misnomer impact national pride and conservation efforts? In this Perspectives and Opinions piece, Sherry and colleagues unravel the history behind this taxonomic mix-up and discuss its potential implications, as well as possible solutions to set the record straight.
Historical misidentifications and taxonomic mysteries can persist for centuries, shaping our understanding of species past and present. One such enigma is Gosse’s Blue Partridge, a bird reportedly observed in Jamaica in the 1700s and later described by naturalist P.H. Gosse in the 1800s. With no confirmed sightings since, the species remains an open question—was it a now-extinct bird, or a misidentification of an existing species? In this Perspectives and Opinions piece, Levy and Koenig revisit this ornithological puzzle, examining 18th-century illustrations and historical records to shed new light on the identity of Jamaica’s mysterious “Blue Partridge.”
The JCO is proud to present a comprehensive volume of conference proceedings from BirdsCaribbean’s 2024 International Conference. Held in Santo Domingo and co-hosted by BirdsCaribbean and Grupo Jaragua, the conference united researchers, conservationists, and bird enthusiasts under the theme “From Mangroves to Mountains: Safeguarding Our Avian Treasures.”
From Mangroves to Mountains – Explore JCO Special Issue Vol. 37!
Over five days of engaging presentations—plus pre- and post-conference workshops and field trips—more than 300 delegates from 31 countries shared their research, exchanged ideas, and strengthened networks for Caribbean bird conservation. The conference proceedings, available as a Special Issue in Volume 37, serve as a lasting reference, featuring over 170 pages of contributions from keynotes, workshops, roundtables, symposia, and oral and poster presentations. Fully bilingual (English and Spanish), this issue highlights the latest advancements in ornithology and conservation across the region.
Book Authors: Martín Acosta, Lourdes Mugica, and Karen Aguilar
Book Review by: Steven C. Latta
Front and back covers of the book. The Cuban Green Woodpecker (Xiphidiopicus percussus), on the front cover, is the only representative of the Cuban endemic genus Xiphidiopicus.
Book Authors: Arne Witt, Mike Picker, and Kirsty Swinnerton
Book Review by: Steven C. Latta
Front cover of a Guide to the Alien and Invasive Animals of the Caribbean.
RECENT ORNITHOLOGICAL LITERATURE (ROL) FROM THE CARIBBEAN
This annual compilation, curated and annotated by Steve Latta, highlights the most important ornithological articles published in other journals. The Recent Ornithological Literature (ROL) section serves as a valuable resource for researchers, conservationists, and bird enthusiasts by summarizing key studies on Caribbean birdlife. This collection ensures that the latest scientific findings remain accessible to those working to protect and understand the region’s avian diversity.
Article by
Zoya Buckmire – Lead Copy Editor for the Journal of Caribbean Ornithology;
Stefan Gleissberg – Managing and Production Editor for the Journal of Caribbean Ornithology
The Journal of Caribbean Ornithology relies on donations to keep our publications free and open-access. Your support helps give a voice to Caribbean ornithologists and their critical research while ensuring that conservation knowledge is accessible to all. Join us in sustaining this vital resource—become a JCO supporter today!
The link to the field guide on Amazon is an “affiliate” link. If you purchase through this links, a portion of the sale supports BirdsCaribbean at NO additional cost to you. Thank you!
Are you looking for a tropical escape to one of the world’s ‘birdiest’ countries? Would you like to travel with a top-tier guide and support Caribbean bird conservation at the same time? If so, you’re in luck! This September, you can join Ernesto Reyes, a Cuban bird guide and longtime member and supporter of BirdsCaribbean, on his 2025 trip to Colombia. The trip will take place from September 5th to 15th.
What can you expect on this South American birding adventure?
Green-and-black Fruiteater. (Photo by Ernesto Reyes)
Colombia is not only one of the most biodiverse countries in the world—it’s also the country with the largest species list—with a whopping 1,966 species, including 79 endemics and 135 near endemics!
Explore some of Colombia’s picturesque habitats including high elevation paramo, foothill cloud forests, low elevation dry forest, and habitats along the Pacific coast. Visit feeders and see some of South America’s renowned jewels from a diverse array of glittering hummingbirds to a spectacle of tropical tanagers. Not to mention, this trip includes opportunities to see both charismatic and secretive species like toucans, parrots, tinamous, antpittas, and a diverse array of wetland birds.
You’ll also learn about local conservation projects and meet members of the local communities facilitating these efforts. And, as those of you know from our Cuba tours, traveling with Ernesto is sheer joy—you will definitely enjoy your time birding with him at some of the most exciting birding hotspots in Colombia.
Travel with Ernesto and support Caribbean bird conservation
Lesser Violetear. (Photo by Ernesto Reyes)
Ernesto has been a long-time friend and supporter of BirdsCaribbean. He guides our Cuba birding tours and receives rave reviews for his excellent knowledge of birds, history, and culture, and for his kindness and good humor.
For every person who signs up for this trip after reading our blog, Ernesto will donate $100US to BirdsCaribbean. When you register, be sure to mention that you found out about the tour through BirdsCaribbean. Please copy our Operations Manager, Alexia Morales, on your email to Ernesto and/or take a screenshot of your registration and send to Alexia (Alexia.Morales@birdscaribbean.org), for tracking purposes.
Thank you, Ernesto, for your invaluable support in helping us achieve our Caribbean bird conservation goals!
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to increase your life list and see birds you’ve seen on National Geographic specials and dreamed of seeing yourself. Sign up today and don’t forget to mention that you’re signing up “in favor of BirdsCaribbean” on your registration form!
Colombia is a beautiful country because of its landscape, its people, and its BIRDS!
Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager. (Photo by Carlos Roberto Chavarria)
A common open country bird of the Colombian and Ecuadorian Andes, The Scrub Tanager is most often encountered in solitary pairs, although it occasionally joins other species at fruiting trees.
A Columbian endemic, the Grayish Piculet can be found in humid forest, second growth scrub, and woodland of the northwestern region of the country. (Photo by Timo Mitzen, ML 548536411)
An arrestingly beautiful hummingbird, the Velvet-purple Coronet can appear all dark in low light, but its iridescent blue-purple body absolutely dazzles when seen well!
The striking Blue-necked Tanager sports a brilliant blue or violet hood, black back, broad black breast band, and greenish straw wing coverts.
The Orange-bellied Euphonia is usually found in pairs or small groups, and typically feeds relatively low above the ground.
White-bellied Woodstars hover with a slow, bumblebee-like flight, allowing them to discreetly sip nectar from territories claimed by other hummingbirds.
Three-striped Warbler is a target species for day two of the tour, a trip to Bosque de niebla, a natural reserve in the Valle del Cauca recognized for hosting a species not so easy to observe and photograph.
2025 Tour with Ernesto and E&T Tours
September 5 – 15, 2025 – just 5 spaces left, register now!
When you register, be sure to mention that you found out about the tour through BirdsCaribbean. Please copy our Operations Manager, Alexia Morales, on your email to Ernesto and/or take a screenshot of your registration and send to Alexia (Alexia.Morales@birdscaribbean.org), for tracking purposes. Thank you!
This April, as the Caribbean transitions from the golden warmth of the dry season to the lush green embrace of the wet season, the spirit of community rises to honor the incredible diversity of our iconic bird species. Join us for another unforgettable Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival (CEBF) where the wonder of birds meets the heart of island culture.
CEBF begins on April 22nd (Earth Day) and runs through May 22nd (International Biodiversity Day). This annual regional festival raises awareness of the amazing birds that live only in the Caribbean—their natural history, the threats to their survival, and how we can act to protect them and ensure that they thrive for generations to come. This year’s theme is “Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities.”
What’s good for the birds will be good for humans
Creating bird-friendly cities and communities is crucial for addressing the decline in bird populations caused by threats like habitat loss, predation, and climate change. The small size of many Caribbean islands makes the preservation of green spaces even more critical, as urban areas are often closely linked to natural habitats like forests and wetlands.
The Grenada Flycatcher is a landbird that is endemic to both St Vincent and Grenada. These two were spotted at the Botanical Gardens of St Vincent and the Grenadines. (Mike Akresh)
The West Indian Woodpecker is another Caribbean endemic that can be spotted in botanical gardens in The Bahamas, Cuba, and Cayman Islands. (Photo by Roberto Jovel ML458058091)
The Yellow-billed Parrot, one of two endemic parrots in Jamaica, often spotted in Kingston at Hope Botanical Gardens. (Photo by Leo Douglas)
These shared spaces not only protect birdlife, but also offer significant benefits for people; improving mental health, providing recreational opportunities, and mitigating the impact of extreme heat. Imagine having a calm, cool refuge right in your community, a place to escape the sweltering Caribbean sun, or a serene space to simply be at peace and slow down your racing thoughts. By nurturing both our natural environments and human well-being, we ensure a more sustainable future for all.
“Although it can be challenging to inspire people to act for the planet as a whole, birds provide an opportunity to take concrete actions that truly make an impact,” shares Eduardo Llegus, Co-Regional Coordinator of the CEBF. This CEBF, we invite you to join us in creating bird-friendly cities and communities. You can help by planting native trees and plants, reducing the use of pesticides, installing birdhouses and feeders, and advocating for green spaces in your communities. By integrating these green spaces into our cities and communities, we can create interconnected corridors that provide birds with the shelter, food, and safe routes they need as they move between mountain peaks and mangroves. Every small step builds toward a greater movement for birds—get involved today!
Students plant a tree at St. Martin Primary School, Dominica.
Vibrant events across the Caribbean to connect with nature and community
If it’s one thing that’s true about Caribbean people: wherever we go we bring the vibes—and that’s exactly what our enthusiastic CEBF island coordinators and educators do with a vibrant mix of in-person and online events. These celebrations attract thousands from diverse backgrounds, eager to explore unique ecosystems, exchange knowledge about birds, and strengthen their connection to their natural heritage. From birdwatching trips and workshops to arts and crafts, bird fairs, habitat clean-ups, and birdscaping local spaces with native plants: there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Yaritza Bobonis with Lola the Puerto Rican Parrot mascot. (Photo by Fundación Amigos De El Yunque)
Practice makes perfect! Students learn to use binoculars during the Floating Classroom field trip. (Photo by EAG)
Young girls learning about the endemic animals of St. Martin. (Photo by Mark Yokoyama)
A young member of the Piping Pawis team birdwatching in Brasso Seco, Trinidad for Global Big Day. (Photo by Giselle Ragoonanan)
Children flying their bird kites in Cuba (Photo by Kenia Mestril Cosme)
Enjoying Cuban endemic bird art for CEBF 2018 in Cuba.
How long is your wingspan? A young girl measures her arm length against a banner with various bird wing lengths printed on it. (Photo by University of Havana Bird Ecology Group)
Student bird poster on display at the Botanical Gardens, Dominican Republic. (Photo by Grupo Acción Ecológica)
A young girl plays a bird game during the CEBF festivities as a member of the Luis-Munos Marin Foundation looks on. (Photo by Eliezer Nieves Rodriguez)
Youth enjoying bird games offered by the University of Havana Bird Ecology Group. (Photo by University of Havana Bird Ecology Group)
Mark your calendars and plan to attend
Our coordinators and educators are currently planning exciting agendas, fun activities, and mapping the best endemic birding route. Events will be held throughout April and May, so be sure to use our CEBF Coordinators Directory to connect with local conservation organizations and find out what’s going on near you! If you’re part of an organization and would like to be added to the directory, reach out to us today.
While most events are free to attend, we kindly ask that you consider making a donation to support the host organization. Regardless, your presence is what matters most, and they will be happy to have you join the celebration.
Got a serious case of FOMOOTCEBF (fear of missing out on the CEBF)? Sign up for our mailing list HERE to ensure that you get the latest CEBF event calendar news, and find out first about the fantastic celebrations happening on your island.
Can’t make it out to an event? We’ve got you covered! We have lots of activities on our website and on our YouTube page: quizzes, ‘Draw and Color Caribbean Birds’ and origami tutorials, scavenger hunts, upcycled crafts, outdoor games, and many more that you can do in small or large groups.
Handmade and decorated birdhouses by secondary school students in Barbuda. (Photo by BarbudanGO)
Don’t forget to tag us in your photos and videos @birdscaribbean on social media with #CEBF #FromTheNest
Learn about Caribbean birds through art
The CEBF team has been busy preparing another stellar line-up for Endemic Birds of the Day! Our lips are sealed when it comes to this year’s selected species, but we are more than thrilled to share that Cuban ornithologist, photographer and scientific illustrator, Arnaldo Toledo, is currently busy sketching birds and mixing colors to create this year’s endemic bird coloring pages!
Artist Arnaldo Toledo at work.
Phase 1: Sketches of the Puerto Rican Tody begin the design by Arnaldo Toledo.
Phase 2: Painting begins with inspiration from the initial sketches.
Phase 3: Finishing touches are added to the bird and its surroundings.
Arnaldo skilfully captures the beauty of our natural world. His drawings bring a sense of wonder, joy, and appreciation for nature in children and adults. He shares, “it brings me joy to be able to share about the potential of this discipline in aiding conservation efforts and advancing knowledge of Caribbean birds.”
Alongside Arnaldo’s drawings, we will provide natural history information, range maps, puzzles, photos, videos, and activities, all designed to stimulate curiosity, creativity, and enjoyment for both adults and children.
Become a friend of the festival
The Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival is not just an event—it’s a celebration of nature, a chance to learn more about the incredible birds that call our region home, and an opportunity to connect with the environment in meaningful ways. By supporting this festival, you’re helping us keep vital resources available for both children and adults, ensuring that everyone has access to valuable information on how to protect our feathered friends and preserve their habitats.
Your support makes a real difference in making these educational materials, workshops, and events free and accessible to all. Every contribution counts, and we are deeply grateful for your support. If you’d like to help make a lasting impact, you can make a secure and convenient donation today by clicking HERE.
Or donations can be made via mail. Please make checks payable to: BirdsCaribbean, 841 Worcester St. #130, Natick, MA 01760-2076
What does it take to update a guide to over 400 bird species on one of the Caribbean’s most biodiverse islands? Arturo Kirkconnell, co-author of the recently released Second Edition of Field Guide to the Birds of Cuba, shares his journey to update the island’s first field guide, the challenges he faced, and his most memorable birding moments in this exclusive BirdsCaribbean interview.
Cuba’s diverse ecosystems and unique geography make it a haven for birdlife, with over 400 recorded species—including 29 found nowhere else on Earth, and 21 classified as globally threatened. For birdwatchers, the island is a treasure trove of avian wonders, from the dazzling Cuban Tody to the flocks of migratory birds that winter here each year. As the island’s birdwatching community continues to grow, enthusiasts now have a vital new resource—the updated Field Guide to the Birds of Cuba.
The second edition, co-authored by Arturo Kirkconnell and the late Orlando Garrido, features a complete redesign with 95 color plates and over 700 images, showcasing birds in male, female, and juvenile plumages. Alongside detailed species accounts, range maps, and key identification features, the guide now includes crucial information on breeding and winter plumages, making it an indispensable tool for identifying both resident and migratory birds.
In this interview, Kirkconnell reflects on his early birding experiences, the complexities of updating the guide, and the advice he’d give his younger self—offering a behind-the-scenes look at the journey that brought this new edition to life!
Author of Second Edition Field Guide to Birds of Cuba, Arturo Kirkconnell.
Book and Process of Updating the Guide
What inspired you to update the Field Guide to the Birds of Cuba, and how is it different from the original edition?
The first edition was 25 years old and needed updating, especially the range maps, bird descriptions, taxonomic changes, and new records for Cuba. I felt that some aspects could be improved, so I saw this as an opportunity to create a more comprehensive and up-to-date version. Additionally, this edition pays tribute to Orlando Garrido, a legendary Cuban ornithologist whose groundbreaking work left a lasting impact on the scientific community.
Orlando Garrido was a tireless explorer of the Cuban archipelago. Garrido has to his credit the discovery of four mammalian taxa and the description of: 58 insects, 21 birds, 37 reptiles. 78 new records among birds, reptiles, and fish, and 23 taxa have been dedicated to him, and in total he has 298 publications. (Photo by Susan Jacobson)
West Indian Woodpecker (Melanerpes superciliaris). In his pioneering ornithological work, Orlando Garrido first described the subspecies M. s. florentinoi from Cayo Largo and M. s. sanfelipensis from Cayo Real in 1966. (Photo by Juan Carlos Sepúlveda-Peña ML56028321)
Can you share some of the challenges you faced while researching and compiling information for the guide?
The biggest challenge was improving the illustrations. I’m grateful for Herb Raffaele’s support and the help from new artists, whose contributions enhanced the guide with high-quality illustrations. These are crucial to a field guide’s success, but securing funding remains a major obstacle—it’s an expensive project. I hope to secure additional funding for doing even more new illustrations in the future, especially of the endemics; it’s a dream I’m working toward.
How long did it take you to finish updating the book and what challenges did you face?
It was a five-year journey of intense work. One particularly tough moment was when my computer crashed and I lost eight months of progress. It was disheartening, but I pushed through, knowing how important it was to complete the project.
Field guides require a balance between scientific accuracy and accessibility. How did you achieve this?
I aimed to use simple, clear language to ensure the text was understandable to a wide range of readers. Finding the right balance between scientific accuracy and readability was key, and I believe we achieved that. The guide also includes a glossary and detailed bird topography to help readers understand bird anatomy and key field marks. It took many hours of revisions, and the editors did an excellent job refining the content.
Are there any Cuban species that hold a special place for you, either for their rarity or their behavior?
All the birds hold a special place for me, that is a fact! I love them all, however, I do have a particular passion for Cuba’s endemic species. Whether rare or common, each one is unique, with fascinating behavior and beauty that captivates me.
Bee Hummingbird – the world’s smallest bird (photo by Aslam Ibrahim Castellan Maure)
Cuban Black Hawk calling. (Photo by David Ascanio)
Cuban Trogon. (Photo by Jose Pantaleon)
Where in Cuba can someone purchase this field guide?
Due to sales restrictions, this field guide isn’t available for purchase in Cuba. However, Cuban individuals and institutions can obtain copies through donations from friends and colleagues who purchase the book abroad and bring it into the country. I would love for every wildlife professional and nature enthusiast in Cuba to have a copy, and I have already provided some to colleagues and birders through donations.
The Field Guide to the Birds of Cuba (Second Edition) is available for purchase directly from Cornell University Press, andAmazon.
About the Author
What first sparked your passion for birds and birding? Do you have any funny or unexpected birdwatching stories to share?
I discovered birdwatching at the age of 24—a late start, but with great passion. My journey began with the support of my colleague Alejandro Llanes and the books provided by Orlando Garrido. It was the vibrant warblers from North America that first captured my fascination. I’d never seen them before, and their striking colors and behavior immediately drew me in. At that time, I hadn’t even seen any of Cuba’s endemic species!
One of my most unforgettable birding moments was my first encounter with a Stygian Owl. It was perched incredibly close—just three meters high and only five meters away. I was trembling with excitement, hardly able to believe I was seeing it in broad daylight! Although Stygian Owls are widely distributed, they are nocturnal hunters, making daytime sightings incredibly rare. It was an emotional moment and to this day, it remains my closest and most memorable sighting with this elusive bird.
A very lucky view of a Stygian Owl on the way to Las Salinas. (Photo by David Southall)
Do you think your connection with birds has influenced other aspects of your life?
My connection with birds has taught me to deeply love all nature, and brought more happiness to my life. It’s also provided me with a magical hobby that’s both entertaining and fulfilling. Can you imagine having a job that brings you great satisfaction and fun? Birds are truly unique creatures!
What was the last bird book (non- field guide!) you read?
The last bird book I read was The Genius of Birds by Jennifer Ackerman, and the last non-bird book was Me, Elton John’s official autobiography. Both are excellent reads.
If you could tell your younger birder self anything, what would it be?
Visiting Long Point Bird Observatory in 1989 was a spectacular experience. The bird banding training was invaluable, and the trip was unforgettable, especially seeing large waves of new species, including warblers, vireos, and thrushes, during fall migration. It was a turning point in my journey with birds. Looking back, I would tell my younger self to travel abroad more. There’s so much to learn from birding experiences in different parts of the world. It’s something I missed out on and really needed when I was younger.
As birding in Cuba continues to grow in popularity, the Field Guide to the Birds of Cuba (Second Edition) is an essential companion for anyone exploring the island’s avifauna. In 2026, BirdsCaribbean will once again offer bird tours to Cuba, making it the perfect opportunity to experience its incredible birdlife firsthand. Be sure to pack this updated guide for your next adventure.
Acknowledgements: BirdsCaribbean granted Arturo access to the bird plates (artwork) from Birds of the West Indies by Raffaele et al. to help complete the Second Edition of the Field Guide to the Birds of Cuba. We extend our thanks to Herb Raffaele and his colleagues for their generosity in granting this access.
About the author: Arturo Kirkconnell is the former Curator of Ornithology at the National Museum of Natural History of Cuba. With 77 scientific publications to his name, he has co-authored two books: A Field Guide to the Birds of Cuba and A Birdwatchers’ Guide to Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and the Caymans. Arturo has been guiding birding tours in Cuba since 1988, sharing his expertise and passion for the island’s rich birdlife.
BirdsCaribbean is excited to announce the 2025 cohort of grantees under two prestigious named awards, the David S. Lee Fund for the Conservation of Caribbean Birds, and the James A. Kushlan Research and Conservation Fund.
These eleven projects will advance the study and conservation of avifauna in six different Caribbean countries: Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Cayman Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, Mexico (offshore islands in the Caribbean Sea), and Venezuela (Caribbean coast).
Keep reading to discover what exciting plans have been proposed by each awardee, and stay tuned for results and accomplishments in future issues of the Journal of Caribbean Ornithology and blog articles.
Congratulations to these outstanding researchers and conservationists from our BirdsCaribbean community!
Trophic Ecology as a Tool to Understand Differences in the Reproductive Success of Two Species of Terns (Onychoprion fuscata and Onychoprion anaethetus) in the Mexican Caribbean
Adriana Vallarino Moncada, Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores Unidad Mérida, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
More than half of the world’s seabirds are declining, but there is so much still to learn about many of our seafaring species. Two of these are the Sooty Tern (O. fuscata) and the Bridled Tern (O. anaethetus), where population trends and ecology are poorly understood. This project aims to address this lack of knowledge by studying these two terns at Isla Mujeres. This is the only place these birds nest in the Mexican Caribbean! Building on work already done monitoring the nesting colony and banding chicks, Adriana is taking this applied research a step further by using GPS tracking, stable isotope analysis, and diet studies. This work will shed light on how climate, ocean conditions, and human activities impact the survival of these terns. The data collected will identify key feeding areas and potential threats, providing critical information to help keep these breeding colonies thriving. In addition, the project will expand community outreach programs in Isla Mujeres and Cancún, raising awareness and getting more local people involved in protecting these remarkable seabirds.
Discovering the Birds of the Monte Cabaiguán Wetland, Las Tunas, Cuba
Manuel López Salcedo, Provincial Enterprise for the Protection of Flora and Fauna, Las Tunas. Delta del Cauto Protected Area, Monte Cabaniguán Sector
Monte Cabaiguán is a wetland that plays a crucial role in protecting coastal areas from erosion and filtering pollutants. Home to thriving mangroves and bustling colonies of waterfowl, it supports a rich variety of wildlife. This unspoilt wetland is essential for the breeding and survival of many migratory and resident bird species. The goal of this project is to update the baseline data on the wetland’s birdlife, assess the health of its ecosystems, and develop strategies for sustainable conservation. This project has local communities at it’s heart, with plans for environmental education and the promotion of conservation; safeguarding this unique natural treasure for future generations!
Monitoring Breeding Colonies, Nesting Success and Productivity of White-tailed Tropicbirds (Phaeton lepturus catesbyi) in the North-west Coastal Cliffs Important Bird Area in Puerto Rico
Alcides L. Morales-Pérez, Independent Researcher
Northwestern Puerto Rico is home to the Acantilados del Noroeste (north-west cliffs) Important Bird Area (IBA). Amongst their rich biodiversity, these cliffs are home to an important nesting population of White-tail Tropicbirds, a bird at risk in the Caribbean. This one of the few White-tailed Tropicbird breeding colonies on the Puerto Rican mainland. To help protect and gain more knowledge about these beautiful seabirds Alcides will host a workshop to engage the local community, students, and other stakeholders in seabird conservation, focusing on White-tailed Tropicbirds. Participants will be trained to monitor nests and actively contribute to data collection. Through colony surveys, nest monitoring, and adult survival assessments the project aims to better understand how these birds are faring. It also aims to estimate the size and extent of the colonies on the cliffs, with local volunteers playing a key role.
Diversity, Abundance, Reproductive Colonies and Distribution of Waterbirds at Los Testigos Archipelago, Venezuela
Jemimah Rivera, INPARQUES, División de Investigación y Monitoreo Ambiental
The Los Testigos Archipelago in Venezuela is known for its incredible biodiversity. But the area has been largely overlooked by researchers due to its remote location, with only two bird expeditions in the last 50 years. While little is known about the area, it’s believed to be an important breeding ground for several seabird species. This project aims to assess the conservation status of the archipelago’s seabirds and landbirds. During the project Jemimah and her intrepid team will take on the challenge to explore the 16 islands of Los Testigos! They will study the birdlife of the islands including their seabird breeding colonies. The team will conduct surveys on foot and by boat, counting nests, eggs, and chicks. This research will be a major step in understanding the birds of the South Caribbean. With threats like invasive species, pollution, and overfishing, this study is crucial to help protect these birds for the future.
Establishing Year-Round Bird Banding stations to Monitor Resident and Migratory Species in Trinidad and Tobago
Giselle Ragoonanan, Trinidad and Tobago Bird Observatory and Research Centre
The Trinidad and Tobago Bird Observatory (TTBO) is setting up year-round bird banding stations to monitor both resident and migratory bird populations across the islands. These stations will collect crucial data on bird life cycles, migration, and population health, helping to identify trends and habitat needs. This data will guide conservation efforts, ensuring the protection of key areas for breeding and survival. The TTBO also plans to involve the local community through outreach programs, raising awareness and encouraging citizen participation in bird conservation. Additionally, the continuous monitoring will help track rare species and migration events, providing much needed insights into changing bird populations in the Caribbean.
Conservation Ecology of the Puerto Rican Oriole
Michael Ocasio, University of Maryland, Baltimore County
The Puerto Rican Oriole is a Caribbean endemic bird facing significant conservation challenges. One major threat is brood parasitism by Shiny Cowbirds, which lay their eggs in oriole nests. As a result, Puerto Rican Orioles often raise cowbird chicks instead of their own, leading to low reproductive success. This project will compare the oriole’s abundance, survival, and reproductive success in both lowland and highland habitats. Through surveys, banding, nest monitoring, and Motus tracking, the project will explore how habitat type affects their breeding and provide insights into their movements and territory use throughout the year. The findings will support conservation efforts in Puerto Rico and contribute to international programs like the IUCN Red List.
Study of the Reproductive and Trophic Ecology of Gundlach’s Hawk (Astur gundlachi), an Endemic and Threatened Bird of Cuba
Ernesto Vergara Llano, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana
Gundlach’s Hawk, a critically endangered raptor endemic to Cuba, is facing population declines and fragmented habitats, but much of its breeding and feeding behavior remains a mystery. This exciting project will dive into the secret life of this elusive hawk, focusing on two key areas in western Cuba: the National Botanical Garden and the Ecological Reserve of Los Petriles. Using camera traps to avoid disturbing the hawks, researchers will capture the hawks’ breeding behaviors, nest sites, and feeding habits. The results will provide crucial information to help protect this incredible species and improve habitat management efforts, giving the Gundlach Hawk a fighting chance for survival!
A Comparison of Avian Species Richness between Protected and Disturbed Areas in Grand Cayman, using Passive Avian Acoustic Monitoring
Matthew Southgate and Simone Williams
This exciting project will uncover the birdlife of Grand Cayman using passive acoustic recorders to capture birds’ calls and songs! With bird populations facing major threats from habitat loss due to development, it’s crucial to understand what helps them thrive. The goal is to assess the health of protected areas and guide decisions on conservation and development. The team will measure bird species richness in protected areas, compare it with nearby disturbed land, and identify the factors that influence it. Citizen scientists and student interns will be involved in monitoring, bird surveys, and community outreach. Plus, the project will contribute audio recordings to improve the Merlin Bird ID app, making it easier for this app to identify native species. By understanding bird populations, this project will help protect ecosystems, prevent environmental damage, guide future restoration efforts and promote bird-friendly development.
Action Plan for the Conservation of Psittacidae in the Pico Cristal National Park, Cuba
Inés Lourdes Fernández Rodríguez, Empresa Flora y la Fauna Santiago de Cuba
Pico Cristal National Park in Cuba is home to the island’s vibrant parrot (psittacidae) species, including the Near Threatened Cuban Amazon and the Vulnerable Cuban Parakeet, or “Catey”. These colorful birds are facing serious threats from habitat loss, hunting, and being captured for the pet trade. This project aims to create and carry out a comprehensive Action Plan to protect these endangered species. Building on past efforts like providing artificial nests to help with breeding, the project will monitor bird populations, identify important conservation areas, and study their ecological and nutritional needs. Students, researchers, and the local community will all be involved, with a focus on raising awareness and supporting bird conservation across Cuba.
Impact of Nest Temperatures on Mortality Rates of the Endangered Yellow-shouldered Blackbird (Agelaius xanthomus) in Southwestern Puerto Rico
Retsel Gonzalez, University of Puerto Rico
The Yellow-shouldered Blackbird, an endangered endemic found mainly in southwestern Puerto Rico. It faces ongoing challenges to its reproductive success, despite ongoing conservation efforts. A recent study suggested that the elevated temperatures inside artificial nests might be contributing to the high mortality rates among eggs and chicks. This project will compare survival rates and temperature levels in both artificial and natural nests to determine if temperature is a key factor impacting reproduction. The findings will help refine current conservation strategies, improve nest management, and hopefully boost recovery efforts for this iconic species.
Ecology of Bare-legged Owl (Margarobyas lawrencii) an endemic strigid in Cuba
Jean Michel De Jongh González, Botanical National Garden, Havana University.
The Bare-legged Owl is endemic to Cuba and the only member of its genus, Margarobyas. It relies on dense forests and natural cavities for nesting, but it faces serious risks from habitat loss, which has led to its recent listing on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This study will take place in the Sierra del Rosario Biosphere Reserve in western Cuba and will focus on two main areas: understanding the owl’s behavior and diet, and studying its use of habitats and nesting sites. The project will also tap into local knowledge from nearby communities and Havana. Fieldwork will be done during both the breeding season and off-season to gain a deeper understanding of this unique and remarkable bird.
Are you working on or planning a research or conservation project with Caribbean birds?
Kayroy Baptiste (Union Island Environmental Alliance) entering data into PROALAS survey sheet during a line transect survey of birds behind Anglican Pastoral Centre in St. Vincent.
Our next call for proposals will be advertised in the fall of 2025. Members of BirdsCaribbean conducting research and conservation work are eligible to apply. Stay informed and don’t miss our announcements by subscribing to our monthly newsletter,joining our Listserv, and following us on social media (@BirdsCaribbean on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and LinkedIn).
BirdsCaribbean thanks our generous donors for supporting these awards, and encourages others to donate to these programs, as well as to consider endowments or other large awards to ensure that our vital grants programs can continue indefinitely. You can help us to continue supporting these invaluable projects by making a donation here.
If you prefer to donate via check, please make this out to “BirdsCaribbean” and in the memo section, note the fund you are donating to. If you have questions, or would like to make other arrangements for donating, feel free to contact Alexia Morales, BirdsCaribbean Operations Manager (Alexia.Morales@birdscaribbean.org). Checks can be mailed to: BirdsCaribbean, 841 Worcester St. #130, Natick, MA 01760-2076
Each year, thousands of migratory birds embark on epic journeys south—some fly non-stop to Central and South America, while others stopover or even spend the winter along the Caribbean’s sunny coastlines, wetlands, and forests. Throughout fall 2024, we celebrated these incredible travelers for World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD), and explored the surprising link between their survival and the health of insect populations. Read on to discover the creative ways Caribbean conservation organizations joined the celebration and why protecting insects is vital for the survival of migratory birds!
Worm-eating Warbler with a caterpillar in its beak. (Photo by Bryan Calk ML54410741)
Welcoming Our Winged Travelers
WMBD in the Caribbean officially took place on October 12th, 2024, but migratory birds don’t all move at once. Some begin their journey south as early as August, leaving their nesting sites in Canada and the U.S. for wintering grounds in the Caribbean, Central, and South America. Every year, we eagerly await their arrival as they flock to our shores, wetlands, forests—and even our backyards! Across the Caribbean, celebrations often begin in September and extend through December.
This year’s theme, Protect Insects, Protect Birds, was especially timely, highlighting the urgent need to address the global decline in insect populations. In Spanish: Proteger a los insectos, proteger a las aves, and in French: Protégeons les insectes, protégeons les oiseaux.
Insects are an important protein source for growing birds too. A female Common Yellowthroat feeds its offspring. (Photo by Dawn Gunderson ML621947269)
Unfortunately, insects face numerous threats, including habitat loss, pesticides, climate change, and bright artificial lights at night. For instance, artificial lighting disrupts fireflies’ mating behavior and caterpillars’ feeding patterns, while swarming around outdoor lights leaves insects exhausted and vulnerable to predators. This is bad news for migratory birds—without enough insects to fuel their journeys, birds can struggle to migrate, reproduce, and survive.
One of the WMBD 2024 Insect Ambassadors– a Vivid Dancer (blue morph)– on a pitcher plant. (Photo by Judy Gallagher)
Simple Actions, Big Impact
The decline in insect populations is a significant threat to bird health, but the good news is we can all take simple steps to make a difference. Actions like planting native flowers, trees, and shrubs; supporting organic farming; preserving natural habitats; and leaving fallen leaves for insects can create healthier ecosystems for both bugs and birds.
Tree-planting Grupo Acción Ecológica for a past WMBD celebration in the Dominican Republic.
Caribbean Communities in Action
Communities across the Caribbean came together to raise awareness about the critical role insects play in the survival of migratory birds and to inspire actions that make their environments more insect-friendly. Here are some highlights from this year’s WMBD events held in The Bahamas, Jamaica, US Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and Antigua and Barbuda.
The Bahamas
To celebrate WMBD, several educational events were held on Grand Bahama Island throughout October and November, engaging students in hands-on learning about birds, their migratory patterns, and the importance of protecting insects to protect birds.
Deana Williamson, a Social Studies teacher at Eight Mile Rock High School, led her students in exploring the connection between insects and birds. Students participated in an interactive activity, matching migratory birds with the insects they typically feed on, while discussing the variety of insects found on the island.
The celebration continued with EARTHCARE’s Bird Educator, Bridget Davis, and members, Jill Cooper and Gail Woon, visiting Bishop Michael Eldon School. Students learned about migratory bird species in The Bahamas and practiced birdwatching techniques using binoculars. Fun prizes like bird-themed bracelets and masks boosted engagement.
Later, Davis and Woon joined Mrs. Rochelle Manchester’s class at Martin Town Primary School for a birdwatching excursion. The students identified 13 bird species, including two rare American Oystercatchers spotted along the shoreline! Reflecting on the experience, Mrs Manchester shared, “The lesson has been the catalyst for a few of them doing their own research on migratory birds. It has truly sparked an interest for the students. I’d love to teach this again next year.”
Two striking American-Oystercatchers, seen by the Martin Town Primary School students in The Bahamas. (Photo by EARTHCARE Bahamas)
Primary School students of the Bishop Michael Eldon School learning how to use binoculars for the first time. (Photo by EARTHCARE Bahamas)
Gail Woon handing out fun bird-themed WMBD materials to students. (Photo by EARTHCARE Bahamas)
Jamaica
BirdLife Jamaica marked WMBD with a muddy but exciting birdwatching event at the Old Harbour Mud Flats in St. Catherine—the third in a series focused on raising public awareness of shorebirds in Jamaica. The first two events were webinars on identifying shorebirds and where to find them, aptly titled ‘Shorebirds: The Beach Bums of the Bird World’ and ‘Birds of the Beach: A Beginner’s Guide to Shore Birding’, respectively.
Twenty enthusiastic birders braved the heat and muddy terrain to put their new shorebird ID skills to the test! The group recorded an impressive 37 species, with the Killdeer and Reddish Egret stealing the spotlight. The real surprise came with the sighting of a lone Black Swift—an uncommon find, as it prefers montane forested habitats, and a lifer for many of the newer birders!
Looking for shorebirds at Old Harbour mudflats, Jamaica. (Photo by BirdLife Jamaica)
Reddish Egret, dark morph. (Photo by Alan D Wilson)
When in doubt always consult field guides, Old Harbour, Jamaica. (Photo by BirdLife Jamaica)
Black Swift. (Photo by Frank Lin ML459370211)
US Virgin Islands
On WMBD, the St. Croix Sea Turtle Project and Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge team led a 2-hour, 2-mile birdwatching hike at the refuge, spotting long-distance migrants like Ruddy Turnstones and small wading birds like Wilson’s Plovers. Ellie Sherman, Education and Outreach Officer for the Sea Turtle Project, shared that the small but enthusiastic group enjoyed exploring Sandy Point’s rich ecology and spotting birds in the refuge’s bird blind and along the beach. Fun fact: Sandy Point is where the rare White Tern was spotted in August 2024!
The team after a fun two hour birdwatching tour at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, St. Croix.
The Ruddy Turnstone travels amazing distances each year. (Photo by Anthony Levesque)
The White Tern following Jennifer along the southwest shore of St Croix at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge (Photo by Jennifer Valuilis)
Wilson’s Plover. (Photo by Andy Morffew)
Dominican Republic
Maria Paulino and her team from Grupo Acción Ecológica (GAE) celebrated WMBD with classroom lessons and outdoor activities. Preschoolers were excited to learn about the migratory birds that travel thousands of miles every year to spend the winter in the Dominican Republic. Bursting with new inspiration, students then got creative, making bird masks and coloring migratory birds from the Migratory Birds of the West Indies book (free download available!).
Preschoolers coloring migratory birds from the Migratory Birds of the West Indies coloring book. (Photo by Grupo Acción Ecológica)
Students birdwatching with Maria Paulino. (Photo by Grupo Acción Ecológica)
Older students ventured outdoors for an introduction to bird banding. Maria took them through the process of setting up mist nets, collecting data on bird size and weight, and explaining how this information adds to our growing knowledge of what birds require to thrive. The highlight? Using binoculars and field guides to identify local birds!
Students look on as Maria explains how a mist net works to safely trap birds. (Photo by Grupo Acción Ecológica)
Two students learn about the importance insects to healthy bird populations using the WMBD poster. (Photo by Grupo Acción Ecológica)
A winter migrant–an Ovenbird, on the hunt for insects. (Photo by Hemant Kishan)
Students identifying and recording birds seen with Maria. (Photo by Grupo Acción Ecológica)
Puerto Rico
The team at Centro Ambiental Santa Ana (CASA) embarked on an exciting adventure into Puerto Rico’s urban forest, joining students from the Universidad Interamericana – Recinto Metro for a hands-on research project: Exploring the Winged Diversity of Puerto Rico in an Urban Forest. This ongoing research aims to monitor both resident and migratory bird species through monthly counts, along with other activities in the vibrant Santa Ana Forest, located in the Julio Enrique Monagas National Park in Bayamón.
On WMBD, college students with no prior birding experience, but a strong passion for wildlife, kicked off their training to join the research team as bird monitors. After an introduction to the essentials of birdwatching led by Dayamiris Candelario, the group headed to the forest to hone their newly acquired skills . Among the species spotted, a thrilling moment came when they identified their first migratory bird—a male Northern Parula sporting the iconic chestnut “collar”.
Male Northern Parula. (Photo by Steve Buckingham)
The students continued their journey into the world of birding with training and fieldwork, beginning their official bird monitoring on October 24th and 26th. Their hard work paid off as they identified several fascinating species, including the Blackpoll Warbler and Black-and-white Warbler. They were delighted to spot more Northern Parulas foraging in the trees, perhaps hunting for their next bug meal.
A male Blackpoll Warbler in fall migration and winter plumage. Males in breeding plumage in spring look very different—they have a black cap and white cheek patch. (Photo by Anthony Levesque)
Male Black-and-White Warbler on Tree (Photo by Hemant Kishan)
“The project is just getting started, and with each field session, these budding birders are gaining valuable skills and contributing to the growing understanding of Puerto Rico’s dynamic bird population. We are incredibly grateful for the support and materials provided by Environment for the Americas and Departamento de Recursos Naturales y Ambientales (Department of Natural and Environmental Resources),” says Dayamiris.
Dayamiris Candelario and her group of budding researchers.
Antigua and Barbuda
The Environmental Awareness Group (EAG), led field trips to explore wetlands and welcome migratory birds settling in for the winter. EAG staff journeyed to Darkwood Mangrove with students from Jennings Secondary and St. Mary’s Secondary, Parham Mangrove with Sir Novelle Richards Academy and Pares Secondary, and McKinnon’s Salt Pond with Antigua Girls’ High School and Antigua Grammar School.
The thrill of spotting birds in the wild was heightened as participants learned to use binoculars for the first time, with the stunning wetland setting providing the perfect backdrop. A fun game of Bird Spy Bingo added a competitive edge as attendees raced to identify as many species as possible.
St. Mary’s Secondary School students receive their binoculars before heading into Darkwood Mangrove to spot migratory birds. (Photo by Sherrel Charles/EAG)
Jennings Secondary School students with Bird Spy Bingo card. (Photo by Sherrel Charles/EAG)
Shanna Challenger teaches the group how to use binoculars.(Photo by Andrew Bowen/EAG)
EAG also brought bird-themed lessons to the classrooms at Antigua State College and St. Nicholas Primary School, sparking curiosity about migratory birds and their conservation. Students learned how actions like using organic pesticides and reducing waste can help protect birds and their habitats for future generations.
Joshel Wilson presenting to students of Antigua State College. (Photo by Auriel Horseford Hunte/EAG)
WMBD presentation to St Nicholas Primary school students. (Photo by Sherrel Charles/EAG)
Bird stickers for everyone! (Photo by Sherrel Charles/EAG)
WMBD 2024’s Outstanding Educators
We applaud the tremendous efforts of all educators who plan and execute educational and fun activities to ensure an unforgettable WMBD and inspire a love for birds and birdwatching. For WMBD 2024, Environment for the Americas recognized the dedication of the following Caribbean educators: Justin Saunders (BirdLife Jamaica), Osmani Borrego Fernandez (Guanahacabibes National Park, Cuba), Jorge Brocca (SOH Conservacion, Dominican Republic), Achsah Mitchell (St. Eustatius National Park) and Devon Carter (Anguilla National Trust). We are also deeply grateful for the ambassadors, who selflessly deliver WMBD educational materials called ‘Happy Kits’ to Caribbean coordinators.
Environment for the Americas and BirdsCaribbean extend our greatest thanks to all of you and we look forward to seeing what you have planned for WMBD 2025!
Interested in supporting bird festivals across the Caribbean? Your contribution will help expand these invaluable efforts and inspire future generations of bird enthusiasts. Show your support here!
Birds Continue to Connect our world
BirdsCaribbean celebrated WMBD by showcasing new migratory birds in our virtual campaign– Birds Connect Our World. Each bird profile was accompanied by a beautifully drawn image by Arnaldo Toledo, along with stunning high-quality photos, engaging videos, online puzzles tailored for different levels (between six and 1,024 pieces), and bird calls. Fun, free and engaging activities were also provided for both kids and adults, including downloadable coloring pages, experiments, up-cycle crafts, and more.
Migratory Birds in Focus
We’re excited to announce the winning photo for the Caribbean region – Youth category in the 2024 World Migratory Bird Day Photo Contest! Captured by Mattéo Antoine, this striking image of a Semipalmated Sandpiper feeding on Ephydra flies at Pointe des Châteaux, Saint-François, Guadeloupe highlights the critical importance of healthy insect populations for migratory birds, especially those traveling thousands of miles nonstop.
Looking Ahead to 2025: Shared Spaces
The theme for WMBD 2025, Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities, will focus on the importance of building urban environments that support both people and wildlife. As cities continue to grow, it’s crucial that we create spaces where birds can thrive—whether through green rooftops, bird-friendly architecture, or protected green areas. By incorporating bird-friendly practices into our daily lives and communities, we can help ensure that migratory birds have safe spaces to rest, feed, and thrive as they journey across the islands.
WMBD 2025 campaign poster, beautifully crafted by artist Annamaria Savrino, showcases the interconnectedness of humans and migratory birds.
If you are interested in celebrating WMBD in your country, or if you can deliver materials to a Caribbean country, we encourage you to visit the WMBD website for more information; or contact the Caribbean Regional Coordinator, Laura Baboolal, at lbaboolal@environmentamericas.org.
For birdwatchers in Cuba, October isn’t just a month; it’s a celebration of nature, science, and the unbeatable spirit of the birdwatching community. Despite the blackouts and shortages of essential items that come with life on the largest island in the Caribbean, birders across the country united for two magnificent birding extravaganzas—October Big Day and Garrido Biggest Week.
In 2023, Cuban conservationists Yaro Rodríguez and Nils Navarro received a Betty Petersen Conservation Fund grant to expand Cuba’s emerging birdwatching movement. The goal was to improve the understanding of Cuba’s birdlife through citizen science.
Their project provided community leaders with binoculars and training to identify and monitor local bird populations and report data through eBird Caribbean. These trained leaders then establish birdwatching clubs in their communities, raising awareness across Cuba about the importance of protecting birds and their habitats. Yaro and Nils’ project continues to grow, with birdwatching clubs across the country now actively engaging in ongoing bird monitoring and conservation efforts.
Yaro Rodríguez.
Nils Navarro.
In addition to several locally initiated birding celebrations throughout the year, birders across the island also participate in two major global citizen science programs: Global Big Day in May and October Big Day in October. Team Cuba is proudly known as the Gundlach Team, in honor of the German-Cuban naturalist and taxonomist Johannes Christoph Gundlach. Yaro details the how the Cuban birding community came together in October to celebrate and protect Cuba’s incredible birdlife.
Gundlach’s Hawk (Photo by Michael J. Good)
Passion and perseverance in Cuba’s birdwatching community
October saw the Gundlach Team remaining steadfast in their exemplary efforts. From dawn onward, birdwatchers from across Cuba ventured into the field, ready to discover and record the country’s rich avian diversity. Notable participants included Yanosky, Manuel Aroche, Ricardo Concepción, Nicolás Díaz, and Marleny Roque, who started their day at first light!
The national bird of Cuba – the Cuban Trogon. (Photo by Rafy Rodriguez)
What makes these events special is not only the number of birds recorded—but the personal stories behind each effort. For some, it was a day of surprises as they encountered new “lifers” to add to their personal lists, while for others, it was an opportunity to improve their standing in the Cuba Big Year 2024. Every list submitted to eBird helped to build a more comprehensive picture of the biodiversity on our island.
Omar Labrada, from Las Tunas, birdwatched with his daughters during October Big Day.
Yusneyda Alarcon and Manuel Lopez from Gramma crossing a mangrove channel during October Big Day.
The community’s dedication was particularly inspiring. Birdwatchers like Edwin Ruiz and Maite Cordoví, despite facing personal challenges, joined in from their windows, showing that a love for birds knows no bounds. Others, like Homar Labrada and his son Marcos, used the occasion to spend the day together, passing down a respect and fascination for birds to the next generation.
Against the odds: The Cuban reality
Birdwatching in Cuba presents unique challenges. One of the biggest challenge our birdwatching community faces is transportation, both to easily accessible areas and to new regions we want to explore. Compounded by fuel shortages, this significantly limits our ability to travel, making each trip a major logistical challenge. On top of that, we deal with frequent power outages and the ongoing stress of meeting our families’ basic needs. Despite these daily struggles and economic difficulties affecting everything from transportation to food, our birdwatching community remains determined, active, and enthusiastic.
Viñales Valley, Cuba.
Every activity we promote and every event in which birdwatchers participate is a meaningful achievement, reflecting the love and commitment we have for Cuban birds and future generations.
October Big Day in Cuba: An unmatched success
On October 12, 63 eBirders, across 15 provinces, with the exception of the Isle of Youth, recorded 186 bird species within just 24 hours. This resulted in 140 eBird checklists, enriched with 96 photos and 31 song recordings. These data not only strengthen the global knowledge base on birds but also underscore Cuba’s commitment to conservation and citizen science.
Among notable individual achievements, Manuel López Salcedo from Las Tunas led the count with 96 species observed across 11 lists. On the women’s side, Yuzaima Ortiz from Ciego de Ávila secured the title of top female lister with a total of 87 species observed.
Members of the formidable Gundlach Team.
This local success was part of a larger global achievement. Over 750,000 birdwatchers from 201 countries participated in this historic day of citizen science, documenting over 7,800 species in just 24 hours. This global initiative highlights the importance of birdwatching as a conservation tool. Each checklist, photo, and recording contributes essential data for science and biodiversity protection.
Garrido Biggest Week: A tribute to a legend
Despite the devastation caused by Hurricane Oscar and ongoing power outages, the Cuban birdwatching community honored Orlando H. Garrido, the country’s most influential ornithologist, who passed away in June 2024. In a fitting tribute to Cuba’s jewel of Caribbean ornithology, the first edition of Garrido’s Biggest Week was held from October 21 to 27. Created to honor Garrido’s legacy and encourage birdwatching during the autumn migration, the event coincided with the dates when Garrido himself would go into the field to record new species.
Orlando Garrido was a tireless explorer of the Cuban archipelago. Garrido has to his credit the discovery of four mammalian taxa and the description of: 58 insects, 21 birds, 37 reptiles. 78 new records among birds, reptiles, and fish, and 23 taxa have been dedicated to him, and in total he has 298 publications. (Photo by Susan Jacobson)
Orlando Garrido regales our group with stories of his Cuban adventures as a biologist and tennis pro! BirdsCaribean Cuba Bird Tour (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Orlando Garrido, Nils Navarro and Herb Raffaele at the 21st International Conference of BirdsCaribbean, in Topes de Collantes, Cuba, July, 2017. Orlando was awarded a BirdsCaribbean Lifetime Achievement Award.
Birdwatchers from all provinces participated enthusiastically, recording 183 species and capturing a total of 76 photographs. José Alberto Pérez Echavarría was the winner in this friendly competition, observing 108 species throughout the event.
This week featured some serendipitous sightings, among them was the first record in Cuba of a Lawrence’s Warbler, an important discovery for the island’s avifauna!
An adult male Lawrence’s Warbler. (Photo by Jeff Hapeman ML604876071)
Additionally, the first documented case of xanthochroism in a member of the Todidae family, the Cuban Tody, was observed—this rare phenomenon gives affected birds an unusual yellow coloration. Both discoveries will be part of an upcoming article, expanding on these unique observations in the region.
The Garrido Biggest Week will become an annual tradition. The community also organizes other thematic weeks to honor prominent figures in Cuban ornithology, such as Charles Ramsden Week in December, José H. Bauzá Week in April, and Juan Gundlach Week in August.
These activities are essential for keeping the birdwatching community active year-round, beyond major events like October Big Day and Global Big Day, while also enriching eBird during periods of lower tourist activity in the country. Through these efforts, the Cuban birdwatching community continues to advance the exploration and conservation of the island’s biodiversity, even in the face of adversity.
The power of citizen science
October Big Day and Garrido Biggest Week are also reminders of the value of our birds and the challenges they face. Cuban birdlife, like that around the world, faces constant pressures from habitat loss, climate change, and human activity. In addition, illegal trapping is a huge threat to endemic, resident and migratory birds in Cuba. Through citizen science and unwavering commitment, each Cuban birdwatcher has the opportunity to contribute to conservation and make a difference.
Cuban Parakeets in flight (Photo by Garry Donaldson)
Cuban voices from the field
To conclude, here are some stories that capture the passion and challenges of these unforgettable days:
“When I arrived, the battery pack I’d prepared for my camera failed, so I used my binoculars to do digiscoping and identify birds in tricky situations. Later, in the forest, as we returned to the reservoir embankment, Wency played a mix of bird calls, and we saw several warbler species. Surprise! Among them was a Worm-eating Warbler, a lifer for me. The excitement was indescribable; everyone pointed their cameras and managed to capture the moment.” – Freddy Ricardo, Holguín Birdwatching Club
“I had a lifer: White-eyed Vireo, though without a photo. But I managed to photograph an Osprey for the first time—81 shots as I got closer with digiscoping! I was thrilled to capture this species.” – Manuel Aroche, Granma Birdwatching Club
“A friend and I shared a lifer, a Philadelphia Vireo! The second record of this species in Ciego de Ávila, and during the week we honor Garrido! It couldn’t be better.” – Nicolás Díaz, Ciego de Ávila Birdwatching Club
“I want to dedicate my participation in the October Global Big Day to my dad, who recently passed away. I owe him my love and respect for nature.” – Ricardo Sánchez, Artemisa Birdwatching Club
These anecdotes reflect the dedication and love for birds that motivate our community to keep moving forward. In every field outing, every photo, and every checklist submitted, there lies a collective commitment to preserving Cuba’s rich biodiversity for future generations.
Special Thanks
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Betty Petersen Conservation Fund, managed by BirdsCaribbean, for their generous support, and to the team at BirdsCaribbean, especially Lisa Sorenson and Adrianne Tossas, for their unwavering dedication to the birdwatching community in Cuba.
Yaroddys Rodríguez, known as Yaro, is a self-taught ornithologist dedicated to the study and conservation of Cuban birds. Mentored by experts like Orlando H. Garrido and James Wiley, he began publishing scientific articles at a young age. Yaro founded the Cuban Birdwatchers Facebook group, now with over 30,000 members, and promotes the use of eBird for citizen science. He is also a member of the Cuban Zoological Society, BirdsCaribbean, and the Ariguanabo Foundation.
Los Observadores de Aves Cubanos Vuelan alto en Octubre: Aves, Ciencia y el Espíritu de Comunidad
Para los observadores de aves en Cuba, octubre no es solo un mes, es una celebración de la naturaleza, la ciencia y el inquebrantable espíritu de la comunidad de observación de aves. A pesar de los apagones y la escasez de productos esenciales que acompañan la vida en la isla más grande del Caribe, los observadores de aves de todo el país se unieron para dos magníficas extravagancias ornitológicas: el Gran Día de Aves de Octubre y la Semana Más Grande de Garrido.
En 2023, los conservacionistas cubanos Yaro Rodríguez y Nils Navarro recibieron una beca del Fondo de Conservación Betty Petersen para expandir el emergente movimiento de observación de aves en Cuba. El objetivo era mejorar la comprensión de la fauna aviar cubana a través de la ciencia ciudadana.
Su proyecto proporcionó binoculares y capacitación a los líderes comunitarios para identificar y monitorear las poblaciones locales de aves, reportando los datos a través de eBird Caribe. Estos líderes capacitados establecieron clubes de observación de aves en sus comunidades, generando conciencia en toda Cuba sobre la importancia de proteger a las aves y sus hábitats. El proyecto de Yaro y Nils sigue creciendo, con clubes de observadores de aves en todo el país que participan activamente en esfuerzos de monitoreo y conservación de aves.
Yaro Rodríguez.
Nils Navarro.
Además de varias celebraciones locales de observación de aves a lo largo del año, los observadores de aves de la isla también se reúnen para participar en dos grandes programas globales de ciencia ciudadana: Global Big Day en mayo y Gran Día de Aves de Octubre en octubre. El equipo de Cuba es conocido con orgullo como el Equipo Gundlach, en honor al naturalista y taxónomo germano-cubano Johannes Christoph Gundlach. Yaro detalla cómo la comunidad de observadores de aves cubanos se unió en octubre para celebrar y proteger la increíble fauna aviar de Cuba.
Gundlach’s Hawk (Foto de Michael J. Good)
Pasión y perseverancia en la comunidad de observadores de aves de Cuba
En octubre, el Equipo Gundlach se mantuvo firme en sus esfuerzos ejemplares. Desde el amanecer, los observadores de aves de toda Cuba se aventuraron al campo, listos para descubrir y registrar la rica diversidad aviar del país. Entre los participantes más destacados se encontraban Yanosky, Manuel Aroche, Ricardo Concepción, Nicolás Díaz y Marleny Roque, ¡quienes comenzaron su jornada al primer rayo de luz!
El ave nacional de Cuba conocida localmente como ‘tocororo.’ (Foto de Rafy Rodriguez)
Lo que hace especiales estos eventos no es solo la cantidad de aves registradas, sino las historias personales detrás de cada esfuerzo. Para algunos, fue un día lleno de sorpresas al encontrar nuevas especies “lifers” para agregar a sus listas personales, mientras que para otros, fue una oportunidad para mejorar su posición en el Cuba Big Year 2024. Cada lista enviada a eBird ayudó a construir una imagen más completa de la biodiversidad en nuestra isla.
Omar Labrada de Las Tunas observando aves con sus hijas.
Yusneyda Alarcón y Manuel López, de Gramma, cruzando un canal de manglares durante el Big Day de octubre.
La dedicación de la comunidad fue particularmente inspiradora. Observadores de aves como Edwin Ruiz y Maite Cordoví, a pesar de enfrentar desafíos personales, se unieron desde sus ventanas, demostrando que el amor por las aves no tiene límites. Otros, como Homar Labrada y su hijo Marcos, aprovecharon la ocasión para pasar el día juntos, transmitiendo el respeto y la fascinación por las aves a la próxima generación.
Contra viento y marea: La realidad cubana
La observación de aves en Cuba presenta desafíos únicos, centrados principalmente en el transporte. El mayor reto que enfrenta nuestra comunidad de observadores de aves es el transporte, tanto hacia áreas de fácil acceso como hacia nuevas regiones que queremos explorar. Aumentado por la escasez de combustible, esto limita significativamente nuestra capacidad para viajar, haciendo de cada viaje un gran desafío logístico. Además, lidiamos con frecuentes apagones y el estrés constante de satisfacer las necesidades básicas de nuestras familias. A pesar de estas luchas diarias y dificultades económicas que afectan desde el transporte hasta la comida, nuestra comunidad de observadores de aves sigue siendo determinada, activa y entusiasta.
Viñales Valley, Cuba.
Cada actividad que promovemos y cada evento en el que los observadores de aves participan es un logro significativo, reflejando el amor y compromiso que tenemos por las aves cubanas y las generaciones futuras.
Gran Día de Aves de Octubre en Cuba: Un éxito inigualable
El 12 de octubre, 63 eBirders de 15 provincias, con excepción de la Isla de la Juventud, registraron 186 especies de aves en tan solo 24 horas. Esto resultó en 140 listas de eBird, enriquecidas con 96 fotos y 31 grabaciones de cantos. Estos datos no solo fortalecen la base de conocimiento global sobre las aves, sino que también subrayan el compromiso de Cuba con la conservación y la ciencia ciudadana.
Miembros del formidable Equipo Gundlach.
Entre los logros individuales más destacados, Manuel López Salcedo de Las Tunas lideró el conteo con 96 especies observadas en 11 listas. Por parte de las mujeres, Yuzaima Ortiz de Ciego de Ávila se coronó como la mejor observadora femenina con un total de 87 especies observadas.
Este éxito local fue parte de un logro global mayor. Más de 750,000 observadores de aves de 201 países participaron en este histórico día de ciencia ciudadana, documentando más de 7,800 especies en solo 24 horas. Esta iniciativa global resalta la importancia de la observación de aves como una herramienta de conservación. Cada lista, foto y grabación contribuye con datos esenciales para la ciencia y la protección de la biodiversidad.
Semana Más Grande de Garrido: Un tributo a una leyenda
A pesar de la devastación causada por el huracán Oscar y los continuos apagones, la comunidad de observadores de aves de Cuba rindió homenaje a Orlando H. Garrido, el ornitólogo más influyente del país, quien falleció en junio de 2024. En un merecido tributo a la joya de la ornitología caribeña de Cuba, se celebró la primera edición de la Semana Más Grande de Garrido del 21 al 27 de octubre. Creada para honrar el legado de Garrido y fomentar la observación de aves durante la migración de otoño, el evento coincidió con las fechas en las que Garrido mismo salía al campo a reportar nuevas especies.
Orlando Garrido fue un incansable explorador del archipiélago cubano. Garrido tiene en su haber el descubrimiento de cuatro taxones de mamíferos y la descripción de: 58 insectos, 21 aves, 37 reptiles. Se le han dedicado 78 nuevos registros entre aves, reptiles y peces, y 23 taxones, y en total tiene 298 publicaciones. (Foto de Susan Jacobson)
Orlando Garrido deleita a nuestro grupo con historias de sus aventuras cubanas como biólogo y tenista profesional. BirdsCaribean Cuba Bird Tour (Foto de Lisa Sorenson)
Orlando Garrido, Nils Navarro y Herb Raffaele en la 21 Conferencia Internacional de BirdsCaribbean, en Topes de Collantes, Cuba, julio, 2017. Orlando recibió el premio BirdsCaribbean Lifetime Achievement Award.
Los observadores de aves de todas las provincias participaron con entusiasmo, registrando 183 especies y capturando un total de 76 fotografías. José Alberto Pérez Echavarría fue el ganador de esta competencia amistosa, observando 108 especies a lo largo del evento.
Esta semana presentó algunas observaciones afortunadas, entre ellas el primer registro en Cuba de un Bijirita de Lawrence, ¡un descubrimiento importante para la avifauna de la isla!
Un macho adulto de Bijirita de Lawrence. (Foto de Jeff Hapeman ML604876071)
Además, se observó el primer caso documentado de xantocromismo en un miembro de la familia Todidae, el Cuban Tody (Cartacuba o Pedorrera), un fenómeno raro que da a los aves afectadas una coloración amarilla inusual. Ambos descubrimientos formarán parte de un artículo próximo, ampliando estas observaciones únicas en la región.
La Semana Más Grande de Garrido se convertirá en una tradición anual. La comunidad también organiza otras semanas temáticas para honrar figuras prominentes de la ornitología cubana, como la Semana Charles Ramsden en diciembre, la Semana José H. Bauzá en abril y la Semana Juan Gundlach en agosto.
Estas actividades son esenciales para mantener activa a la comunidad de observadores de aves durante todo el año, más allá de grandes eventos como el Gran Día de Aves de Octubre y el Global Big Day, mientras enriquecen a eBird durante períodos de menor actividad turística en el país. A través de estos esfuerzos, la comunidad de observadores de aves de Cuba sigue avanzando en la exploración y conservación de la biodiversidad de la isla, incluso ante la adversidad.
El poder de la ciencia ciudadana
El Gran Día de Aves de Octubre y la Semana Más Grande de Garrido también son recordatorios del valor de nuestras aves y los desafíos que enfrentan. La fauna aviar cubana, al igual que la del resto del mundo, enfrenta presiones constantes por la pérdida de hábitats, el cambio climático y la actividad humana. Además, la captura ilegal es una gran amenaza para las aves endémicas, residentes y migratorias en Cuba. A través de la ciencia ciudadana y un compromiso inquebrantable, cada observador de aves cubano tiene la oportunidad de contribuir a la conservación y marcar la diferencia.
Catey en vuelo. (Foto de Garry Donaldson)
Voces cubanas desde el campo
Para concluir, aquí hay algunas historias que capturan la pasión y los desafíos de estos días inolvidables:
“Cuando llegué, el pack de baterías que había preparado para mi cámara falló, así que usé mis binoculares para hacer digiscoping e identificar aves en situaciones difíciles. Más tarde, en el bosque, mientras regresábamos al dique del embalse, Wency puso una mezcla de cantos de aves y vimos varias especies de warblers. ¡Sorpresa! Entre ellas estaba un Worm-eating Warbler (Bijirita gusanera), un lifer para mí. ¡La emoción fue indescriptible! Todos apuntaron sus cámaras y lograron capturar el momento.” – Freddy Ricardo, Club de Observación de Aves Holguín
“Tuve un lifer: Vireo de ojos blancos, aunque sin foto. Pero logré fotografiar un Águila pescadora por primera vez—¡81 fotos mientras me acercaba con digiscoping! Estaba emocionado de capturar esta especie.” – Manuel Aroche, Club de Observación de Aves Granma
“Un amigo y yo compartimos un lifer, ¡un Vireo de Filadelfia! ¡El segundo registro de esta especie en Ciego de Ávila, y durante la semana que honramos a Garrido! ¡No podría ser mejor!” – Nicolás Díaz, Club de Observación de Aves Ciego de Ávila
“Quiero dedicar mi participación en el Global Big Day de Octubre a mi papá, quien falleció recientemente. Le debo mi amor y respeto por la naturaleza.” – Ricardo Sánchez, Club de Observación de Aves Artemisa
Estas anécdotas reflejan la dedicación y el amor por las aves que motiva a nuestra comunidad a seguir adelante. En cada salida al campo, cada foto y cada lista enviada, hay un compromiso colectivo para preservar la rica biodiversidad de Cuba para las futuras generaciones.
Agradecimientos especiales
Queremos extender nuestro más sincero agradecimiento al Fondo de Conservación Betty Petersen, gestionado por BirdsCaribbean, por su generoso apoyo, y al equipo de BirdsCaribbean, especialmente a Lisa Sorenson y Adrianne Tossas, por su dedicación incansable a la comunidad de observadores de aves en Cuba.
Yaroddys Rodríguez, conocido como Yaro, es un ornitólogo autodidacta dedicado al estudio y conservación de las aves cubanas. Mentoreado por expertos como Orlando H. Garrido y James Wiley, comenzó a publicar artículos científicos desde joven. Yaro fundó el grupo de Observadores de Aves de Cuba en Facebook, ahora con más de 30,000 miembros, y promueve el uso de eBird para la ciencia ciudadana. También es miembro de la Sociedad Zoológica de Cuba, BirdsCaribbean y la Fundación Ariguanabo.
What a year it’s been! 2024 was a whirlwind of excitement, challenges, and growth, and we’re thrilled to share some of the highlights with you. From record-breaking events to building new partnerships, we’ve had quite the ride—and we couldn’t have done it without the support of our amazing community. Here’s a round-up of our most unforgettable moments from the year. Thank you to all our volunteers, members, donors, and everyone who believes in the future of Caribbean birds!
Fantastic fifteen for the Caribbean Waterbird Census
2024 started with us celebrating an amazing 15 years of the Caribbean Waterbird Census. From January 14th to February 3rd, over 200 birders across 14 islands helped us document over 300 CWC checklists! Highlights from this year’s count included a Baird’s Sandpiper spotted in Guadeloupe—a very rare Caribbean visitor!
A volunteer uses a Shorebird ID card at a Caribbean Waterbird Census count. (Photo by Dayamiris Candelario OPAS)
A group of Lesser Scaups at East End Pond. (Photo by Jacqueline A Cestero)
Carrying out CWC surveys on St. Eustatius. (Photo by Jethro van’t Hul)
Sanderling – X19 stopped on another winter visit to Jamaica. (Photo by Damany Calder)
Baird’s Sandpiper (Photo by Caio Osoegawa ML628469580)
Big Day got even BIGGER!
On Global Big Day, May 11, birders around the world got out and about to join in the fun. In the West Indies, we shattered our records for both participation and bird sightings! Big Day birders in the region saw 551 West Indian species, thanks to the amazing efforts of 710 eBird observers—up from 511 last year! But wait there’s more: there were more species sighted (1,354 total, 208 more than last year) and a huge leap in the number of checklists submitted—2,755 total, nearly 1,000 more than last year—phenomenal!! We’re proud of this fantastic win for citizen science in the West Indies!
Dominica’s Imperial Seekers seeking out the magnificent Imperial Parrot for GBD 2024. (Photo by Garry Auguiste)
Members of Wadadli Warblers in Antigua got in on the early birding action for GBD 2024. Photo by Shanna Challenger
A subgroup of the Gundlach Team in Cuba ready to dominate the competition on the morning of GBD 2024.
Big Day wasn’t just about ticking off the birds though, our fun ‘Teams competition’ and annual fundraising efforts were back—this time to enable Caribbean conservationists to come together and strategize to protect our birdlife. We raised over $25,000, an amazing effort that helped bring many deserving Caribbean nationals to our 24th International Conference in the DR! Speaking of which…
We made BirdsCaribbean history in the Dominican Republic!
A record-breaking 338 delegates from 32 countries and islands flocked to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, making our 24th International Conference our largest gathering ever! Conservationists from all walks of life came together, united by a shared mission: protecting the incredible birds that define our region. Centred on the theme: “From Mangroves to Mountains: Safeguarding our Avian Treasures,” the conference featured expert-led presentations, roundtable discussions, training sessions, networking opportunities, fundraising initiatives, and birding trips to observe Hispaniola’s diverse bird species, including its unique endemics. From mangrove conservation to Hispaniola’s endemics to habitat restoration—the conference was a hub of knowledge sharing, networking, collaboration, and inspiration.
Anne-Isabelle Bonifassi, Executive Director of Haiti National Trust, speaks about ecosystem restoration in Haiti, during the Hispaniola Day symposium.
Problem tree being analysed and turned into a results tree by participants.
First time BC Conference attendee Soraya proudly stands next to her poster.
Delegates birding at Ebano Verde.
Palmchat. (Photo by Dax Roman)
Traditional Dominican dancers at the opening reception.
In collaboration with researchers from Virginia Tech, BirdsCaribbean learned more about one of these threats—human disturbance. Early in 2024 we published a report based on a survey of those who do CWC counts, which showed that they perceive human disturbance to be the most significant threat to shorebirds in our region. The report highlighted the need for more social and biological research on human disturbance, and how to tackle this threat.
As we get ready for the 2025 CWC regional count we hope Caribbean birders head for the coast to observe and record shorebird sightings! If you would like to support shorebirds and their threatened habitats, please click here.
Birds and bugs: A perfect pairing for conservation!
Are you Team Insects or Team Birds — or both?! (Photo by TTBO)
Male Puerto Rican Mango. (Photo by Rafy Rodrguez)
Posters about insect types and functions, created by STENAPA staff. (Photo by STENAPA)
Youth enjoying bird games offered by the University of Havana Bird Ecology Group. (Photo by University of Havana Bird Ecology Group)
Completed birdhouses. (Photo by BarbudanGO)
Group birdwatching at Hope Botanical Gardens. (Photo by BirdLife Jamaica)
Six more reasons to celebrate Caribbean endemic birds
This year, we welcomed six newly-recognized Caribbean endemics, bringing the total to an impressive 185! Meet the latest members of our avian family: Grenada Wren, St. Vincent Wren, St. Lucia Wren, Kalinago Wren, Martinique Thrasher, and the St. Lucia Thrasher. More birds to celebrate, more species to protect!
The St Vincent Wren has a notably long wing chord. (Photo by David Hollie ML600921241)
The St Lucia Thrasher has dark brown plumage overall and white underparts. (Photo by Blake Matheson ML214222511)
New resources to keep you informed and inspired
We’ve been busy behind the scenes, launching new resources to keep you in the loop on all things bird conservation. Our first-ever Endemic and Threatened Species Working Group (ETSWG) newsletter debuted this month, packed with the latest research and happenings in the field. Click here for an insightful and enjoyable read! For the latest news and research about our birds farther from shore, dive into our Seabird Working Group newsletter. Both are available in English, Spanish, and French. As always, we welcome your feedback.
And by the way, have you checked out the latest edition (#37) of the Journal of Caribbean Ornithology? It includes research articles and notes, as well as conservation reports, book reviews, perspectives, and opinions. Even more exciting? Volume #37 is a JCO Special Issue!—featuring the contributions from the 24th International BirdsCaribbean Conference! Check out this amazing compendium to rediscover all the fantastic insights shared at the conference!
This year’s edition of “Birds Connect our World” featured stunning coloring pages by masterful Cuban illustrator Arnaldo Toledo.
Always released in English, Spanish, and French, the annual Seabird Working Group is the perfect resource to stay up-to-date on the latest in Caribbean seabird conservation.
From Mangroves to Mountains – Explore JCO Special Issue Vol. 37!
It’s a first edition! Dive right into the newly launched Endemic and Threatened Species WG Newsletter – in English, Spanish, or French, of course!
Training champions for birds and conservation
In October, BirdsCaribbean collaborated with a local NGO, WIRRED (Walkers Institute for Regenerative Research and Design) to conduct a week-long Caribbean Birding Trail Guide Training Workshop on the island of Barbados. Home to the endemic Barbados Bullfinch, the island’s wetlands and coastline harbour critical stopover sites and wintering habitat for migratory species. The training covered not only bird identification and guiding techniques, but also how to tell stories and make connections to the island’s rich cultural, historical, and ecological heritage through the art of environmental interpretation. Congratulations to the 21 newly trained bird guides and conservation champions from Barbados, Antigua, Sint Eustatius, and Cuba!
BirdsCaribbean is pleased to present our Caribbean Birding Trail 2024 cohort! (Photo by WIRRED)
In the US Virgin Islands, 22 educators from three islands learned to engage students with nature and science through birds! Two BirdSleuth Caribbean workshops were held in June, in partnership with SEA (St Croix Environmental Association), the USVI Dept of Environment and Natural Resources, and Horsley Witten Sustainable Environmental Solutions. Over two days, each group explored the BirdSleuth Caribbean curriculum and discovered how to bring birds into the classroom. Birds are excellent for teaching scientific skills as well as gaining appreciation of the islands’ wonderful bird life.
Our Caribbean Landbird Monitoring Program continues to build regional conservation capacity!
This year our 3rd annual bird banding workshop (as part of the Caribbean Landbird Monitoring Program) migrated down to the Lesser Antilles in St. George, Grenada. From March 7 – 11 participants learned all about songbird banding at scenic locations like the Blue Horizons Resort (featuring views of the white sand Grand Anse Beach) and in the dry forests of Mount Hartman National Park (featuring views of the critically endangered Grenada Dove). With collaboration from Klamath Bird Observatory, participants received training from internationally recognized and North American Banding Council (NABC) certified trainers on all the banding basics from how to properly handle birds, how to extract birds from mist nets, and an introduction to the topic on every bander’s mind, molt. We welcomed 18 participants from 9 different islands and at the end celebrated the certification of two more Caribbean NABC trainers: Daniela Ventura of Cuba, and Zoya Buckmire of Grenada. Congratulations!!
Daniela Ventura instructing participants during the CBB workshop in Grenada. (Photo by Holly Garrod)
We returned to the scenic mountains of Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic for our third annual Landbird monitoring Workshop from 22-26 February, 2024. This year we were ecstatic to welcome 25 participants from 14 different islands. Participants learned the ins and outs of how to set up PROALAS landbird monitoring on their islands, how to enter data using eBird, and how to train people on basic bird identification, featuring some endemic birds of Hispaniola! No workshop would be complete without excursions into the field to practice these monitoring techniques, and participants got to wander the rolling hills around Jarabacoa, finishing with a field trip to the Scientific Reserve, Ebano Verde for chances at finding a Hispaniolan Trogon! Thanks to our Caribbean Landbird Monitoring Small Grant initiative, participants are already making an impact! Six new monitoring programs have launched in The Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Grenada, and Cuba, putting skills into action to protect Caribbean birds.
Weathering the Storm: Resilience in the Face of Climate Change
2024’s hurricane season started early, impacting several of our islands to varying degrees. Climate change fueled extreme weather is no doubt becoming the “order of the day.” Hurricane Beryl (the earliest hurricane ever to reach Category 5 intensity) arrived in early July, and wreaked havoc on Union Island, destroying the 13 year-long Ashton Lagoon project, where the office of Sustainable Grenadines (SusGren) is located. Fortunately there were no casualties, but the entire island was devastated. Now, SusGren’s Executive Director Orisha Joseph is determined to “build back better and stronger.” If you would like to contribute to the restoration of Ashton Lagoon, click here. Beryl also devastated the small sister islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, near Grenada, and went on to cause destruction and flooding in parts of Jamaica.
The charming SusGren office before it was destroyed by Hurricane Beryl. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc.)
Sustainable Grenadines office was completely destroyed when Hurricane Beryl passed through Union Island on July 1, 2024. (Photo by Orisha Joseph)
Ashton Lagoon mangrove littered with littered with chairs, desks, filing cabinets, papers. (Photo by Orisha Joseph)
We recognized and celebrated our committed conservation community!
The BirdsCaribbean Awards were celebrated with rousing applause on the final night of our conference in the Dominican Republic.
Winners of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award were Christopher Rimmer, Emeritus Executive Director of Vermont Center for Ecostudies (VCE)—the “Bicknell’s Thrush man”; and Dr. Steven C. Latta, Director of Conservation and Field Research at the National Aviary of the Dominican Republic.
Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Christopher Rimmer with BirdsCaribbean Executive Director Lisa Sorenson, BirdsCaribbean President Adrianne Tossas and Andrea Thomen.
Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Dr Steve Latta with BirdsCaribbean Executive Director Lisa Sorenson, BirdsCaribbean President Adrianne Tossas and Andrea Thomen.
President Dr. Adrianne Tossas handed out the coveted President’s Awards to four exemplary organisations on the island of Hispaniola: The Peregrine Fund Dominican Republic, Grupo Jaragua, Grupo Acción Ecológica and Action pour la Sauvegarde de l’Écologie en Haïti. Meet our full roster of awardees here! Congratulations to all—you inspire us to keep pushing harder everyday!
We proudly supported 12 projects through the David S. Lee Fund for Caribbean Birds and the James A. Kushlan Research and Conservation Fund. These projects advanced avian research and conservation in seven Caribbean countries: Cuba, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Mexico (offshore islands), St. Eustatius, and The Bahamas. Projects ranged from establishing bird diversity data in The Bahamas, to evaluating education campaigns for the Endangered Jamaican Blackbird, studying the role of urban parks for birds in Cuba, tracking Puerto Rican Orioles, and enhancing Red-billed Tropic Bird conservation in St. Eustatius. We are thrilled to support the dedicated researchers and conservationists in our BirdsCaribbean community.
Without a doubt, we are #StrongerTogether
Giving Tuesday was a huge success, exceeding our $15,000 target! With the theme “Stronger Together: Empowering People, Saving Birds” we are continuing our fundraising efforts with a new target of $60,000! Our team members have raised just over $51,000 so far—we’ve got 18% to go and it’s not too late to help us reach our goal! View our fundraising page here—where a generous match from the BirdsCaribbean board means that any help you give is doubled to continue our work with the people and birds of the Caribbean!
Farewell to some true bird conservation legends
This year we said sad farewells to beloved champions of Caribbean birds. They will be missed…
Wayne Burke at Woodbourne Shorebird Refuge. (Photo by Yves Aubrey)
Wayne “Doc” Burke of Barbados who passed away on November 19, tackled the issue of hunting shorebirds, establishing the Woodbourne Shorebird Refuge, a former shooting swamp that became a haven for shorebirds. His pioneering efforts spurred a change in attitudes and practices among Barbadian hunters, and led to the establishment of more shorebird refuges. Read more here.
John Fletcher walking along the beach during a visit to Yallahs Salt Ponds, a place where he was always very happy. (Photo by Emma Lewis)
London-born John Fletcher, who died at the age of 95 in Kingston and adopted Jamaica as his home at a young age, became a successful businessman, a coffee producer—and most of all an avid birder and a President of BirdLife Jamaica. He was a revered and loved “guru” for bird watchers of all ages, conducting countless bird tours across the island. Read more here.
Simón Guerrero was a founding member of the Society for the Conservation and Study of Caribbean Birds. An engaging teacher and speaker with a great sense of humor, he influenced many to become fans and defenders of nature over several decades.
We remember an extraordinary environmental educator, Simón Guerrero, who passed away earlier this year. His research on urban ecology focused on making cities more habitable for wildlife, including birds. Simón had a remarkable ability to bring the wonder of birds into classrooms, captivating both students and teachers. A passionate advocate for inclusivity, he founded a birding group for blind Dominicans and emphasized the importance of ensuring that birds “know” our actions are in their favor.
Orlando Garrido was a tireless explorer of the Cuban archipelago. Garrido has to his credit the discovery of four mammalian taxa and the description of: 58 insects, 21 birds, 37 reptiles. 78 new records among birds, reptiles, and fish, and 23 taxa have been dedicated to him, and in total he has 298 publications. (Photo by Susan Jacobson)
We also said goodbye to a giant in Cuban ornithology on June 24, Orlando Garrido—an exceptional scientist, naturalist, colleague, teacher, mentor, and friend to so many. Orlando was dedicated to his work until the very end, discussing ornithology and measuring birds for another publication the evening before his passing! We are grateful to have celebrated Orlando’s numerous accomplishments with a Lifetime Achievement Award at our International Conference in Cuba in 2017 and a wonderful article with many photos on the occasion of his 90th birthday.
Looking ahead: Big things are coming in 2025!
With our focus remaining on our threatened shorebirds, we are looking forward to the 16th annual Caribbean Waterbird Census regional count (January 14 to February 3, 2025), which includes the global World Wetlands Day (February 2, 2025). With a long-term database of over 27,000 CWC lists, your participation will add to a valuable resource for bird conservation across the region. Don’t forget that we have a wealth of handy bird ID materials on our YouTube channel to help you in your quest—and you can conduct waterbird censuses at any time of the year, of course.
Speaking of shorebirds, in 2025 we will be working to have Monte Cristi in the Dominican Republic designated as a key site in the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network. Some 20,000 birds stop off at Monte Cristi annually during their migration.
Building our banding network will also be a 2025 priority, as we seek to equip conservationists with those important skills. Applications for our upcoming workshop in the DR are now closed but keep an eye out for future opportunities!
Aerial view of the Motus station installed at Walkers Reserve Barbados. (Photo by Shae Warren)
More Motus! We hope to install more Motus stations across the region, to track our precious migratory species.
We’re off to the bird haven that is the beautiful island of Cuba for what promises to be two amazing bird tours! (January 23 – 31 and March 19 – 30, 2025). Both tours are fully booked, but you can still browse the itineraries and join the waiting list for 2026 by clicking here.
Thank You for an Incredible Year!
2024 was a year to remember, and it was made possible by you—our dedicated members, partners, and supporters.
Stay up to date with us in 2025 with the latest news from the field, BirdsCaribbean programs and events, and opportunities to get involved—free to your inbox, by signing up for our monthly newsletter. Cheers to a fantastic 2025!
Georgie Thornton (right) and Kierra Clarke (left) from WIRRED. (Photo Lisa Sorenson)
Sun, sand, sea and….birds? Yes that’s right, birds! While Barbados is celebrated for its immaculate beaches, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, this Caribbean gem is also a haven for migratory birds and a great place for birdwatchers. From charismatic shorebirds to colorful warblers, Barbados offers a veritable treasure trove of avian wonder for those who know where to look. In October 2024, BirdsCaribbean teamed up with local NGO WIRRED to shine a spotlight on this hidden birding paradise by hosting a transformative week-long Caribbean Birding Trail Guide Training workshop. Together, we aim to change perceptions and unlock the island’s incredible birdlife for visitors and locals alike!
Although Barbados may not be known primarily as an ecotourism or bird watching hotspot, its wetlands and coastlines are critically important in supporting tens of thousands of migratory shorebirds each year—making them a goldmine for bird lovers! Barbados is also home to the Barbados Bullfinch, a unique and delightful species found nowhere else on earth. Positioned further east in the Atlantic than the rest of the Lesser Antilles, Barbados often welcomes unexpected feathered visitors, adding to its special charm! By cultivating a vibrant birding culture and tourism market, Barbados has the opportunity to raise awareness of the value wetlands and other habitats for birds, fostering sustainable livelihoods in local communities, and build momentum for long-term conservation efforts.
Participants practice identifying birds during the workshop. (Photo by WIRRED)
From October 21-25, participants dove into an immersive workshop designed to equip them with the essential skills for delivering exceptional birding experiences. The comprehensive curriculum covered bird identification, behaviour, ecology, habitat conservation, and environmental interpretation—the art of telling stories to connect visitors with the natural and cultural heritage of Barbados. Led by expert instructors from BirdsCaribbean, the training blended in-depth knowledge and hands-on field experiences, including visits to key birding sites around the island to hone bird identification and guiding techniques. Curious about the highlights? Keep reading as Georgie Thornton, Project Officer at WIRRED, and her colleagues share their insights!
The Wonderful Wetlands of Barbados
Georgie (left) takes part in a birding fieldtrip as part of the workshop. (Photo by Alex Sansom)
I have always been extremely proud of living in Barbados. We’ve got amazing people, gorgeous beaches, flamboyant gardens, and a generally positive atmosphere. But one thing that wasn’t on my ‘must see and do’ list for the island was birdwatching. After five incredible days immersed in the Caribbean Birding Trail Bird Guide Workshop, packed with thrilling tours to Barbados’s top birding spots, I’ve come to realize that no trip to Barbados is complete without exploring the island’s exceptional birdlife!
This tropical paradise serves as a vital stopover for countless migratory bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Over the last 10 years, Walkers Reserve has been creating or rehabilitating habitats that have attracted a wonderfully diverse variety of birds. Since I joined the team, I have started to recognise just how important birds are to the ecosystems throughout Barbados, and have developed a healthy respect for these feathered friends.
In 2022, we hosted BirdsCaribbean’s Wondrous Wetlands Workshop where I was able to dip my toes into the world of birding. Ever since, I have been waiting with great anticipation for the CBT Bird Guiding Workshop held this October. I was looking forward to deepening my appreciation for our resident and migratory birds and to sharing the experience with the 20 other local and regional participants!
Walkers Reserve is sanctuary for migratory birds, from colourful hummingbirds to soaring raptors. It is a birder’s paradise. (Photo by WIRRED)
Which Bird Sparked Your Passion?
Venicio ‘Beny’ Wilson broke the ice on the first day by asking everyone to name their ‘trigger bird’—the bird that first drew them into birding or made them start noticing birds. While some participants shared the same bird, everyone had their own wonderful and unique story. One participant mentioned a falcon seen at just 9 years old, shown to them by their grandparents on the south coast boardwalk. Another was completely captivated by the Osprey, which ignited their birding passion. My bird is the Bananaquit. It has always been a constant presence in my garden, gorging itself on the sugary nectar of the banana and bird of paradise flowers.
Osprey with fish. (Photo by Bernie Duhamel)
Dr. Amelia Rouse, Research Consultant at WIRRED, shared her experience of those first days of the workshop:
“I’ll be honest, before the workshop I wasn’t that interested in birds. I liked the typical Osprey and falcon—the big birds of prey with sharp claws. But the workshop helped me see differently. Suddenly all of the birds roaming around had names, features, field marks, bills, calls, and curious behaviours. Some just chill in the pond, some birds hover over the pond, and some birds even twerk by the pond. Who knew…”
Hear the Bird Call and Spread Your Wings
It was the start of a fantastic week of bonding over birds. It was awesome to see everyone spread their wings as they started to understand how to differentiate similar ‘sandpiper’ species, and to tell the call of the Lesser Yellowlegs from that of the Greater as they fly overhead. As the mini quizzes got harder, everyone stepped up to the challenge and soon, an uninitiated person dropping into the conversation wouldn’t have had a clue what we were all talking about!
Interactive classroom sessions came to life with learning activities and field trips to important birding locations on the island. These included visits to Walkers Reserve, Woodbourne Shorebird Sanctuary, Cherry Tree Hill, Harrison’s Point, and King George V Park.
Spotted — this pair of Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks and their brood of chicks thrilled participants and tested their ID skills! (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Woodbourne was particularly special for me. Greeted by a stunning rainbow which brilliantly spanned the reaches of the swamp, we were shown around by Ian Alkins, Woodbourne’s dedicated caretaker. We spotted a fascinating variety of birds, including the Wilson’s Snipe, Solitary Sandpipers, and lots of Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks—and their very cute babies! We were fascinated as a kingfisher hovered 60 ft in the air before careening down to grab a fish he’d been eyeing so far above.
Give Deeper Meaning to Your Story
In addition to Bird Identification, instructor Rick Morales introduced participants to the art of Interpretation*. Through this session, we learned how to tell stories that could foster meaningful and inclusive experiences for our guests, deepening their understanding, broaden their perspectives, and inspire engagement with Barbados’ natural and cultural heritage The workshop helped us to drastically improve our guiding and presentation skills, culminating in a presentation on something we were passionate about on the last day of the course.
Dr. Amelia Rouse presenting her topic of children can be inspired through cartoons to conserve nature. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Group watches as Amelia presents. (Photo by Alex Sansom)
Amelia highlights her experience below:
Georgie presents on the final day, about composing with worms. (Photo by Venicio Wilson)
“What I also found interesting about the workshop was how the different presenters engaged us with personal stories. One of the keys of the interpretation module was to add some of your own personality to your guiding and touring presentations. I kept this in mind when I prepared my final presentation at the end of the workshop and used personal stories about my childhood connection to nature and cartoons. The final message was that children can be inspired through cartoons to conserve nature. I’d like to thank the CBT, Birds Caribbean and WIRRED for organising a fun and engaging workshop.”
Other participants presented on native medicinal plants, archaeology, coral restoration, bees, tour guiding in Barbados and Antigua, worm compost, their native quail-doves, and even read moving poems they’d written about their experience throughout the week.
Now, for anyone who visits Barbados and specifically Walkers Reserve, I will always show off our splendid Bajan birds, ensuring they leave with an understanding of just how important these birds are to Barbados and a desire to experience them more. With 21 new birding champions on the island, we hope to foster the birding community here on island to ensure areas important to these birds are treasured.
Participants were thrilled with the experience!
Participants wholeheartedly described it as one of the most enriching experiences they’ve ever had. Amelia explained, “I joined the weeklong course to learn more about bird ID — but I learned so many more things! I learned about interpretive guiding, about the degradation of habitats for shorebirds, and I learned how to present better as a guide! I think it’s a really great course for anybody interested in birds and guiding.” Participant Chaka Audain agreed that the course delivered way more than he expected: “At first, when I started this course, I really thought it would just be specialized in increasing my knowledge about birds, but I realized that I was just scraping the surface of what the course offered. We dived into business strategy for tour guides, how to connect better with clients — and techniques to really relate to people! I gathered so much more than I originally thought I would in this workshop, and I’d recommend it — not just to bird enthusiasts, but anyone else in the tour guiding business, and anyone else dealing with tourists — it will help you multifold your ventures.”
BirdsCaribbean is pleased to present our Caribbean Birding Trail 2024 cohort! (Photo by WIRRED)
Next Steps—and a heartfelt Thank You to our Sponsors!
During the workshop, a “Birding in Barbados” WhatsApp group was formed where participants and more experienced birders in Barbados are sharing what birds they are seeing, finding out about the best birding spots on the island, and getting help with bird ID as needed. Some of the group have already been on birding field trips to continue practicing their bird identification skills—essential for becoming a knowledgeable guide. With all this enthusiasm and practice we have at least one participant, not previously a birder, who is already signed up to guide bird tours in Barbados!
The group out birding during the workshop (Photo by Alex Sansom)
Georgia Scarlett, Environmental Projects Manager at the Sandals Foundation, one of the main sponsors of the guide training, explained, “As a Foundation, we know that becoming stewards of your environment begins with education. With this, we continue to support capacity building sessions across the region.”
“This project not only strengthens capacity and fosters stewardship,” Scarlett continues, “but has the added benefit of livelihood development as birding is an exciting tourism opportunity. Globally, travellers are eager to participate in nature tourism activities and, with these sessions, trainees are able to provide this service.”
Georgie Thornton is a Bajan wildlife conservationist. She currently works at WIRRED as Project Officer, managing various habitat regeneration and monitoring programs.
Acknowledgements: The CBT Interpretive Guide Training was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors and local partners. These include the Sandals Foundation, WIRRED, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Forest Service International Programs, USAID, and Vortex Optics.
The Barbados CBT Interpretive Guide training is the eighth training to be carried out by BirdsCaribbean. Previous trainings have been held in Grenada, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Bonaire, Cuba, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the Turks and Caicos Islands. These guide trainings are integral to advancing the vision of the CBT—connecting people to the extraordinary places, diverse cultures, and people of each island. Through the CBT, we promote natural and authentic experiences that benefit local people and encourage the protection of the Caribbean’s natural resources, including birds and their habitats.
*Interpretation is a purposeful approach to communication that facilitates meaningful, relevant, and inclusive experiences that deepen understanding, broaden perspectives, and inspire engagement with the world around us. (National Association of Interpretation).
I wanted to get to know the elusive Whistling Warbler on the island of Saint Vincent — which meant that we needed to go up. Straight up some very steep slopes!
Whistling Warbler spotted on La Soufriere Windward Trail. (Photo by Jonathan Slifkin ML621602299)
The Whistling Warbler (Cathoropeza bishopi) is an endangered, endemic species of bird that lives on the Lesser Antillean island of Saint Vincent. When we say a species is endemic, it means that the species exists nowhere else on the planet other than at a discrete location. This is a common designation for many island species. When a species is endemic and endangered, that can be a ‘code red’ for conservationists — because the species has nowhere else to go to disperse from threats! In the case of the Whistling Warbler, those threats come mainly from deforestation, land use change, hurricanes (exacerbated by climate-change), and the recent explosive eruption of Saint Vincent’s La Soufrière volcano in 2021, the largest to occur in the Caribbean in the last 250 years.
Figure 1. Map of St Vincent showing locations of our PROALAS Point Counts without Whistling Warbler (WHWA) sightings, with warbler sightings, and eBird Caribbean sightings prior to the April 2021 eruption of La Soufriére Volcano.
So where is the Whistling Warbler to be found? Well, this charming bird (whose plumage delightfully brings to mind an Oreo cookie!) appears to require a specific kind of natural forest for habitat: forests growing in steep, wet, montane environments. These mostly grow on the windward (east) side of the island. However, these forests have been experiencing a great deal of “wear and tear” in recent years. Some have been cut to grow non-native tree plantations, or terraced to provide farmland, in some cases for the illegal cultivation of Cannabis. Many of the northern areas were decimated by wind and volcanic ash from the 2021 volcanic eruption. The windward forests also take the brunt of hurricanes moving west across the Atlantic, which can wreak havoc on the essential habitat of the warbler. Hurricane Beryl just recently tore through St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG); the extent of the damage to the mainland forests (and the warbler) is currently unknown, though nearby Union Island has been devastated. These growing and more frequent impacts of climate change cannot be overlooked.
And yet, the Whistling Warbler has so far been able to hold on in small numbers, in the face of these daunting challenges to its habitat. Much of its success is thanks to conservation efforts that protect and restore their habitat. Now, it is absolutely vital that the warbler population is actively monitored to ensure its survival, and to inform future conservation efforts aimed at protecting its habitat. Part of the challenge here is that there is still so little known about this bird. We don’t know much about their habitat requirements; their nest construction; and when and where they breed. It is critical to understand these aspects of the warbler’s life cycle to make effective management decisions. We can only find this information by getting people out into the forest to make these discoveries and to monitor the population.
Preparing for the trip: some homework required
I am a graduate student at Antioch University New England studying Conservation Biology. Antioch Professor Dr. Mike Akresh has been working with Caribbean birds for over a decade, and when he asked if I would like to accompany him on a two-week field study trip in March 2024 to Saint Vincent, I was initially apprehensive. Leaving my young child and a pile of school work at home for two weeks sounded daunting, but I knew there was important work to be done on Saint Vincent as there is not an overabundance of researchers working on the Whistling Warbler. I made the decision to go.
The Vulnerable St Vincent Parrot. (Photo by Mike Akresh)
A pair of Rufous-throated Solitaire in St. Vincent (Photo by Frantz Delcroix)
Lesser Antillean Tanager on St. Vincent. (Photo by Steven Hunter ML200625941)
Firstly, I went into an intense learning period focussed on the birds of Saint Vincent; it was especially important to learn their calls. With the help of eBird, the Merlin App, and a handy field guide to the “Birds of the West Indies,” I familiarized myself with most of the birds we could expect to encounter on the trip. How were we going to monitor for the Whistling Warbler? Well, we were planning to work with the PROALAS landbird monitoring protocol, which requires us to document every bird seen and heard during a specific period of time at a point or transect. Every bird has a story to tell about the environment; birds are regarded as indicator species. This means that the presence of certain species or lack thereof provides critical insights about the impacts of land use change, climate change, and volcanic activity; in other words, the obstacles and challenges that the Whistling Warbler faces.
The song of the Whistling Warbler consists of an ascending trill of loudly whistled notes.
Our enthusiastic team on Saint Vincent
Our collaborators on the island were the talented and professional members of the SVG Forestry Department. Our point of contact and monitoring collaborator was the energetic Glenroy Gaymes, who has been working closely with the Whistling Warbler conservation efforts. Glenroy is an expert birder and naturalist, whose passion for conservation on Saint Vincent is infectious. With invaluable help from Glenroy and other Forestry staff such as Felicia Baptiste, Romano Pierre, Caswin Caine, and Kishbert Richards, we reached the steep and remote areas where the warbler lives. Glenroy and the Forestry Department have also been monitoring the endemic and endangered Saint Vincent Parrot (Amazona guildingii) and many other non-bird species.
Mike Akresh, Glenroy Gaymes and Christian Carson in Kingstown, St. Vincent.
Our days on Saint Vincent were demanding, but rewarding. We did find the Whistling Warbler!
Mike hiking nearly straight uphill. Accessing the Whistling Warbler’s habitat is not easy. (Photo by Christian Carson)
Primary Forest in St. Vincent. (Photo by Christian Carson)
Every morning we would wake up before sunrise, and head up into the sawtooth-like mountains, shrouded in mist. You may have seen these impressive mountains before if you have seen the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, which were largely filmed on Saint Vincent. Fortunately, we encountered the Whistling Warbler several times at various locations. In keeping with previous observations, most or all of our encounters with the Whistling Warbler took place over 300 meters and in steep, wet forests. Did I mention that we had to go up high? The slopes of the misty mountains of Saint Vincent were steep and slippery.
Notes from the field
When studying where Whistling Warblers like to live, we found that they prefer primary forests with lots of moss. Younger and older secondary forests had fewer warblers. Interestingly, palm brakes were about the same as primary forests for warbler sightings, especially near certain trails. Detection was low in elfin woods, which seem to be unsuitable habitat for them. The drier, western side of the island has less of the wet montane forest they prefer.
We noticed that Whistling Warblers really like wetter forests, especially where there’s a lot of moss. For example, at one site – Silver Spoon, where the forest is very wet, we found lots of warblers. However, on the leeward side of the island, the forests were dry and grassy, and we didn’t find any warblers there.
We didn’t look for warblers in the northern part of the island because it’s too dry and no warblers have ever been found there. Tree plantations were the least likely place to find Whistling Warblers because these areas have trees, like Blue Mahoe and Big-leaf Mahogany, that are all the same age and don’t provide enough food or shelter for the birds. Overall, we also noticed that there were fewer other forest birds around areas affected by the volcano. Birds like Bananaquits and House Wrens were common near the volcano, but other species like Cocoa Thrush and Ruddy Quail-Doves were missing. The ash from the volcano may have made it harder for some birds to find food. However, some of these birds are starting to come back now, so we’ll keep studying and monitoring the area to learn more.
Christian and Kishbert surveying for the Whistling Warbler on La Soufrière. (Photo by Mike Akresh)
We still need more information on the mysterious Whistling Warbler!
Over the past few years and during this current trip, we have come across several nests that might possibly be those of the Whistling Warbler, but without a positive ID of a warbler using the nest, we cannot say for sure. Finding a nest is particularly important for conservation efforts because it allows us to better understand the warbler’s breeding ecology and habitat requirements. We also do not know how successful the warbler is in breeding; invasive mongoose or black rat populations may prey on eggs or fledglings. But it must be acknowledged that without more research, we cannot know for sure. There are limited resources available to protect the Whistling Warbler, so the more specifics we have about this species, the better those resources can be utilized to have the greatest conservation impact. We need to know more, so that we can do a better job at protecting this species, which is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
With the data we have been able to collect while on Saint Vincent, we aim to create a conservation action plan (CAP) specifically for the Whistling Warbler. Without the dedicated work of the Saint Vincent Forestry Department, BirdsCaribbean, and donors small and large, this work would not be possible, and the Whistling Warbler would likely be added to the alarming (and growing) number of species lost forever.
We owe it to the Whistling Warbler, up there in the remote rainforest and beautiful mountains of Saint Vincent.
Christian holding a Sphinx Moth. (Photo by Mike Akresh)
Christian Carson is a graduate student at Antioch University New England studying conservation biology. He is interested in ways people seek and find meaning in the living world, and how this meaning (or lack thereof) shapes global environmental issues. He lives with his partner and three-year-old son in Western Massachusetts. He enjoys quiet walks in the woods, flying kites, and sitting zazen. You can reach him at ccarson@antioch.edu.
Acknowledgements: BirdsCaribbean is grateful to the Critical Ecosystems Partnership Fund (CEPF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for funding our Conservation of the Endangered Whistling Warbler Project, launched in 2022. We are also deeply grateful to Mr. Fitzgerald Providence and his staff at the St. Vincent Forestry Department for their help and support. Special thanks Glenroy Gaymes, who has been working closely with us on the warbler project. Finally, we thank BirdsCaribbean members, partners, and donors for your support, which made this work possible.
If you like Caribbean birds, maybe you want to learn to put a ring (or band) on them!
BirdsCaribbean is excited to invite applications to participate in a 5-day training workshop focused on bird banding, an important tool for research and monitoring! Participants will learn about the basics of bird banding, from setting up a mist-net to examining molt patterns, through a blend of classroom and field based activities. We’ll also discuss and demonstrate some of the benefits of joining our new Caribbean Bird Banding Network. We’re very excited to return to the Dominican Republic to one of our favorite workshop sites, Baiguate Ecolodge in Jarabacoa. Mark your calendars — this year’s workshop will take place from 20-24 February, 2025.
Why do we need to band birds?
A Cuban Tody wearing a BirdsCaribbean band about to be released. (Photo by Daniela Ventura)
Bird surveys, like those covered in our Caribbean Landbird Monitoring Training Workshops, provide valuable information about abundance and species presence. But bird banding is a different methodology that takes a deeper dive into how bird populations are doing by assessing the condition of individual birds. By marking and assessing birds in the hand, we can collect data that can tell us about their demography and health, including:
Looking at fat scores and weights to assess the body condition of birds in different habitats and at different times of the year, which in turn sheds light on the quality of the habitats these birds are using.
Aging birds using plumage to investigate demographic patterns.
Using recapture records to learn about survivorship and longevity.
Assessing the presence or absence of breeding characteristics to better understand the timing of breeding and life history for many of our understudied Caribbean endemics.
Finding out which migratory routes our shared birds are taking and gaining a better understanding of factors influencing survival and longevity of species.
Over the long-term, bird banding data can also help us understand patterns and trends in bird populations, to aid in their management and conservation.
About the workshop
This workshop is the fourth annual Caribbean Bird Banding (CBB) Training Workshop. It will cover many of the same topics explored in our previous CBB Training workshops held in The Bahamas (March 2022) and the Dominican Republic (March 2023) and Grenada (March 2024). This bilingual (English and Spanish) workshop is designed for Caribbean wildlife professionals and volunteers who are interested in gaining more experience with bird banding. Prior banding experience is not required. However, priority will be given to applicants who are likely to continue training to gain the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to contribute to or initiate avian research and/or banding programs on their home islands.This workshop will focus on banding landbirds, with an emphasis on Passerines. We hope to provide banding training opportunities for other bird groups in the future.
Daniela Ventura del Puerto (Cuba) provides instruction on bird molt to workshop participants Giselle Raganoonan (Trinidad) and Elvin Manual Vargas Estevez (Dominican Republic).
Zoya Buckmire instructs a participant on how to correctly hold a bird to take measurement. (Photo by Maya Wilson)
The purpose of the workshop is to:
Provide participants with a basic understanding of bird banding techniques and best practices.
Discuss what it takes to set-up and run a bird banding station.
Prepare participants for additional bird banding training and potential North American Banding Council (NABC) certifications (assistant, bander, trainer) in the future.
Share information about the other training opportunities, resources, and community available through the CBB Network.
Several NABC-certified trainers will share their knowledge in the classroom, at the mist-net, and at the banding table, covering topics including:
Juan Carlos Fernández Ordóñez shows participants how to correctly set up mist nets in Grenada. (Photo by Maya Wilson)
Proper set-up and placement of a mist-net
Proper techniques for extracting birds from mist-nets
Starting a banding station
Bird first-aid and safety
Bird banding ethics and basics
Using bird banding for education and public demonstrations
Aging birds using both WRP and Howell-Pyle terminology
Molt patterns
Bird banding is a complex skill to learn. This workshop is intended to be a starting point, and participants should not expect to leave the workshop with the necessary qualifications to band birds independently. To become fully immersed and practice what was learned at the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to be considered for bird banding internships following the workshop.
In an effort to decrease the amount of time spent in the classroom, some materials will be shared virtually prior to the in-person workshop. These virtual sessions will also be made available to a wider audience. Stay tuned for more information!
Funding and Logistics
We aim to include approximately 15 participants in this workshop. BirdsCaribbean has funding for a limited number of need and merit-based scholarships to cover the costs of travel and participation. Participants who are able to contribute all or part of their costs can allow us to include additional participants. We encourage applications from all candidates who are well-suited to make use of this training, regardless of their financial ability. Participants should plan to arrive in the Dominican Republic by February 18 and depart on February 25.
Participants at our Caribbean Bird Banding Workshop held in the Dominican Republic in March 2023. (Photo by Joshua Covill)
Applications
If you are interested in participating in this workshop, please fill out this form by 8 December 2024.
Oportunidad de formación: Taller de anillamiento de aves caribeñas
Si te gustan las aves del Caribe, ¡Quizás quieras aprender a ponerles un anillo (o una anilla)! BirdsCaribbean se complace en invitarte a participar en un taller de formación de 5 días centrado en el anillamiento de aves, ¡Una importante herramienta para la investigación y el monitoreo! Los participantes aprenderán los fundamentos del anillamiento de aves, desde la instalación de una red de niebla hasta la revisión de los patrones de muda, a través de una mezcla de actividades en el aula y sobre el terreno. También discutiremos y demostraremos algunos de los beneficios de unirse a nuestra nuevaRed de Anillamiento de Aves del Caribe. Estamos muy contentos de volver a República Dominicana, a uno de nuestros lugares favoritos para los talleres: Baiguate Ecolodge, en Jarabacoa. Márcalo en tu calendario: el taller de este año tendrá lugar del 20 al 24 de febrero de 2025.
¿Por qué necesitamos anillar aves?
Los censos de aves, como los que se tratan en nuestrosTalleres de Formación para el Monitoreo de Aves Terrestres del Caribe, proporcionan información valiosa sobre la abundancia y la presencia de especies. Pero el anillamiento de aves es una metodología diferente que profundiza en la situación de las poblaciones de aves mediante la evaluación del estado de cada individuo. Marcando y estudiando a las aves en la mano, podemos recopilar datos que nos informen sobre su demografía y salud, entre otros:
Observar la acumulación de grasa y el peso para evaluar la condición corporal de las aves en diferentes hábitats y en diferentes épocas del año, lo que a su vez arroja luz sobre la calidad de los hábitats que estas aves están utilizando.
Determinación de la edad de las aves mediante el plumaje para investigar patrones demográficos.
Utilizar los registros de recapturas para conocer la supervivencia y la longevidad.
Evaluar la presencia o ausencia de características reproductivas para comprender mejor el momento de la reproducción y el ciclo biológico de muchas de nuestras poco estudiadas endémicas caribeñas.
Averiguar cuáles rutas migratorias siguen nuestras aves compartidas y comprender mejor los factores que influyen en la supervivencia y longevidad de las especies.
A largo plazo, los datos provenientes del anillamiento también pueden ayudarnos a comprender los patrones y tendencias de las poblaciones de aves, para contribuir a su gestión y conservación.
Sobre el taller
Este taller es el cuarto taller anual de formación sobre anillamiento de aves en el Caribe (CBB). Cubrirá muchos de los temas ya explorados en nuestros talleres anteriores de capacitación sobre la CBBN celebrados enBahamas (marzo de 2022), República Dominicana (marzo de 2023) y Granada (marzo de 2024). El taller bilingüe (inglés y español) está diseñado para profesionales y voluntarios que trabajan con vida silvestre en el Caribe y que estén interesados en adquirir más experiencia en el anillamiento de aves. No se requiere experiencia previa en anillamiento. Sin embargo, se dará prioridad a los solicitantes que tengan posibilidades de seguir formándose para adquirir los conocimientos, habilidades y experiencia necesarios para contribuir o iniciar programas de investigación y/o anillamiento de aves en sus islas de origen. Este taller se centrará en el anillamiento de aves terrestres, con énfasis en los paseriformes. Esperamos ofrecer oportunidades de formación en anillamiento para otros grupos de aves en el futuro.
Los objetivos del taller son:
Proporcionar a los participantes una comprensión básica de las técnicas de anillamiento de aves y las mejores prácticas.
Discutir lo que se necesita para montar y dirigir una estación de anillamiento de aves.
Preparar a los participantes para formación adicional en anillamiento de aves y posibles certificaciones del Consejo Norteamericano de Anillamiento (NABC) (asistente, anillador, entrenador) en el futuro.
Compartir información sobre otras oportunidades de formación, recursos y comunidades disponibles a través de la Red CBB.
Varios formadores certificados por el NABC compartirán sus conocimientos en el aula, en las redes de niebla y en la mesa de anillamiento, cubriendo temas como:
Montaje y colocación adecuados de una red de niebla
Técnicas adecuadas para extraer aves de las redes de niebla
Puesta en marcha de una estación de anillamiento
Primeros auxilios y seguridad
Ética y fundamentos del anillamiento de aves
Uso del anillamiento de aves para educación y demostraciones públicas
Determinación de la edad de las aves utilizando terminología WRP y Howell-Pyle
Patrones de muda
El anillamiento de aves es una habilidad compleja de aprender. Este taller pretende ser un punto de partida, y los participantes no deben esperar salir del taller con las calificaciones necesarias para anillar aves de forma independiente. Para sumergirse completamente y practicar lo aprendido en el taller, los participantes tendrán la oportunidad de ser considerados para prácticas o pasantías de anillamiento de aves tras el taller.
En un esfuerzo por reducir la cantidad de tiempo que se pasa en el aula, algunos materiales se compartirán virtualmente antes del taller presencial. Estas sesiones virtuales también se pondrán a disposición de un público más amplio. Mantente atento para más información.
Financiación y logística
Nuestro objetivo es contar con aproximadamente 15 participantes en este taller. BirdsCaribbean cuenta con financiación para un número limitado de becas basadas en la necesidad y el mérito para cubrir los costes de viaje y participación. Los participantes que puedan contribuir con la totalidad o parte de sus costes pueden permitirnos incluir participantes adicionales. Animamos a presentar solicitudes a todos los candidatos que reúnan las condiciones necesarias para aprovechar esta formación, independientemente de su capacidad financiera. Los participantes deben planificar su llegada a la República Dominicana para el 18 de febrero y su salida para el 25 de febrero.
Solicitudes
Si estás interesado en participar en este taller, llena este formulario antes del 8 de diciembre de 2024.
John Fletcher holds his gift book prepared by his birding family at his 90th birthday celebrations in April, 2019. (Photo by BirdLife Jamaica)
We are saddened to share the recent passing of John Fletcher, a true pioneer of birdwatching in Jamaica. Emma Lewis—an influential blogger, environmental advocate, and longtime BirdsCaribbean member—has written a heartfelt tribute to John, honoring his remarkable legacy of inspiring Jamaicans to appreciate and protect their island’s birds. Emma, also a valued member of our Media Working Group, originally posted this tribute on her blog, Petchary, on November 3, 2024. We extend our gratitude to her for allowing us to share it here.
The birdwatching community has become quite close-knit over the past few years. It is small, but growing. Last month was a sad one, however, as we lost a beloved member of the older generation of birders. I penned this obituary; please feel free to share. As you can tell from the tributes at the end of this piece, we all miss John very much – but we are reflecting on the many good times we shared with him.
He was a teacher. He was a mentor. He was an expert bird guide. He was a friend. And he was never happier than when he had a pair of binoculars slung round his neck.
John was all about business and birds
Former President of BirdLife Jamaica (BLJ) and revered “elder statesman” of the island’s birding world, John Oliver Fletcher passed away in Kingston, Jamaica on October 11, 2024 at the age of 95, after a short illness. He leaves behind his two sons, Andrew and Mark, three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
Lisa Sorenson, Executive Director of BirdsCaribbean, shared her condolences with Jamaican birders: “John was amazing, such a huge and positive influence on the birding community in Jamaica and a mentor and friend to so many. A life well-lived for sure and he will be missed. His spirit lives on in our memories—and in every joyful moment spent with binoculars in hand. Our condolences to all of you.”
President of BLJ Justin Saunders shared: “The significance of John to BLJ was evident from my first day as a BirdLife member over two years ago. The outpouring of love since his passing only confirms the beautiful stories I’ve heard about him since. I was not fortunate enough to have met and gone birding with John, something I expected would have been a memorable and fun experience; but I’m inspired every time I see one more picture and hear one more person speak about their favorite ‘John moment’. Even though John’s passing is a sad moment I think it’s also a beautiful reminder of the family we have here in BirdLife Jamaica.”
In a Facebook post, the Environmental Foundation of Jamaica conveyed its sincere condolences, noting that John was a dedicated member for many years.
Born in Balham, south London on April 5, 1929, John arrived in Jamaica in 1948 as a nineteen year-old, to do his second year of required National Service in Jamaica. He worked in the Army Ordnance Depot on Princess Street, downtown Kingston. He fell in love with Jamaica, met and married a Kingstonian (Kitty Paxton), and started work with the Citrus Company of Jamaica as an assistant chemist. John worked in a management position in Stann Creek, Belize (then British Honduras) for a short while; however, Belize did not suit the Fletchers, and they returned to Jamaica. They lived in Bog Walk for twelve years, where John was Managing Director of Jamaica Citrus Growers. In 1970, he formed his own company, Fletcher Bowman Ltd., in Yallahs, St. Thomas. John was elected President of the Jamaica Exporters Association (JEA) in 1980. Following an illness, he sold the company in 1984. After serving as Managing Director of Salada Foods from 1986 for nine years, he retired at 65 and decided to join his son Mark’s company, Country Traders, where he started his own roastery – Coffee Roasters of Jamaica – an enterprise he enjoyed.
Somehow, despite all his responsibilities, John balanced his business career with his love for the environment – and birds in particular.
John Fletcher walking along the beach during a visit to Yallahs Salt Ponds, a place where he was always very happy. (Photo by Emma Lewis)
While living in Yallahs in the 1970s, John had started bird watching in the fascinating wetland area of the nearby Salt Ponds in the evenings; it remained one of his most beloved birding spots. He became a member of the Gosse Bird Club (now BirdLife Jamaica) where he served as Treasurer from 2005 to 2010 and then as President, until 2014. Besides his birding activities, he was Honorary Consul for Sweden from 1983, for 17 years; and wrote a fortnightly column in the Daily News on business and environmental issues from 1978. In 1990 he was appointed to the Appeals Tribunal of the National Resources Conservation Authority and became Chairman, resigning in 1996 from this and other posts.
John threw himself into his activities as an expert bird guide for locals and overseas visitors, conducting tours all over the island from 2001 onwards. Birding with inner city children, as part of a project with Jamaica Environment Trust, and talking to groups of schoolchildren about birds were among his most rewarding experiences – besides, of course, numerous field trips with BLJ.
Indeed, John loved life, laughed readily and easily, and “connected” with people of all ages and backgrounds. He even got on well with bird hunters. It was noticeable that birdwatchers would gather round him during field trips, to gather up his wisdom.
John adjusting the scope for young birders. (Photo by Doris Gross)
John helping a new birder identify a bird by using a field guide. (Doris Gross)
John helping a group of birders identify a bird. (Doris Gross)
John lived life to the fullest, and was very much a family man. His ninetieth birthday was celebrated in style with friends, family and birders at the Pages Restaurant in Hope Gardens, where he was presented with a book created by BLJ members in celebration of his life with birds, among other gifts. It was a joyous and at times emotional occasion.
John on his 90th, after a birding session at Hope Gardens, with the BirdLife “crew.”
While staying at Silver Sands in late July this year, John “really enjoyed his early morning swims,” according to his son Andrew. He had celebrated his 95th birthday with a party at a restaurant in Golden Spring, St. Andrew.
John gave so much to Jamaica’s birding family. He was much loved and appreciated as a colleague and teacher, and he will be greatly missed.
Other BLJ members and birders shared their fond memories:
“John Fletcher will live on in the hearts of birders in Jamaica. He has taught many about the birds of Jamaica and also how to be a superb bird guide…You have taught and shared so much information about birds to so many people, including me. On behalf of the birding community in Jamaica, we would like to send condolences to your family at this time. You were such a birder and you will live on in our hearts – even in our binoculars.” ImmediatePast President/BLJ Executive and Biologist Damion Whyte
“John and I have shared many birding moments, especially at Parrottee Ponds, St. Elizabeth. I chant that JAH grants all those who are connected to him extra strength in this time of bereavement. May his soul rest in the arms of the Ancestors. John, you have stepped into the next realm and the JAH of the birds are with you all the way. Live on Birding Brother.” – Wolde Kristos, BLJ Executive and Bird Guide
“John was serious about birds. He was always ready to share his knowledge with us all. His enthusiasm was truly infectious. He was a very kind and thoughtful man. I will always remember the steaming hot coffee that he would bring on bird trips and share with us; for example, at the top of a cliff in Hector’s River, as we watched White-tailed Tropicbirds sailing by.” – Emma Lewis, BLJ Executive and blogger
“It was so easy to take beautiful photos of John Fletcher. Because he was a beautiful soul and that showed on the outside…I always told him he is our inspiration for aging gracefully. Fly high with the birds John!” – Doris Gross, BLJ member
“I was honoured to have John Fletcher as a friend for over 30 years. John was remarkable not only for his extensive knowledge of birds, but for his amazing memory of people, places and events in Jamaica over the past seven decades. John was not only a birder, but a ‘hasher’ – a member of the running club, Jamaica Hash House Harriers (‘JAH3’) – and because he was an Englishman with a lifelong interest in birds, he earned himself the cheeky Hash name of ‘Tit Pincher’. It was always a pleasure having John on a birding trip: he brought his bird expertise, his stories of bygone times in Jamaica, and his delicious coffee. Farewell, John – fly with the birds you loved so much.” – Wendy Lee, Conservationist and Bird Guide
“I met John about 2002 through the late Dr. Peter Vogel when I was first introduced to BirdLife Jamaica.
I affectionately look back at the fact that John has always been an old man, even seeing pictures of him from years before he always looked the same…sort of how no one can conjure up a picture of a young Santa Claus. He automatically and effortlessly commanded the room as he immediately got the respect and undivided attention whenever he opened his mouth. He always spoke calmly, never overly excited – but still able to convey his passion for the subject at hand…birds.
Since I was studying birds at the time, John immediately knew I needed his help without me ever asking. So he became my unofficial mentor, keeping me grounded in the local and cultural aspects of birding while I was otherwise building up my technical knowledge. He guided me in how to be a bird guide, which is much more difficult than it seems. The one takeaway I always held on to is that he told me to remain calm and not get too excited when I find the bird, thus not robbing the birders I’m guiding of that experience. In that way he taught me how to let the other birders “discover” the birds themselves, even if it meant I should pretend that I’m not sure of what I am looking at. I understood the assignment.
From there he encouraged me to help train other guides and got me into the commercial aspect of birding to the point where I formed Arrowhead Birding Tours in 2012.
In my eyes, John lived the perfect life. We all knew this day would come when we bid him farewell, but we would never be sad about it.” – Ricardo Miller, Past President of BLJ and Bird Guide.
We’re still buzzing from our fantastic BirdsCaribbean 24th International Conference in Santo Domingo! Our week-long Dominican Republic adventure was packed full of insightful learnings, spectacular birding, and experiencing the rich culture of our gracious hosts — but there’s one feature of the conference that most stands out to us — our incredible community! The opportunity to connect with the passionate trailblazers advancing the work of bird conservation across the region was unforgettable. Thanks to our generous sponsors, we were able to offer scholarships to Caribbean conservation leaders from around the region to join us in sharing knowledge and planning interventions to tackle the Caribbean’s most pressing conservation challenges. One superstar conservationist that we were thrilled to host at the conference was Trinidad and Tobago’s Giselle Ragoonanan.
Giselle Ragoonanan, Co-founder of the Trinidad and Tobago Bird Observatory and Research Centre.
An indigenous naturalist and dedicated educator, Giselle is the co-founder of the Trinidad and Tobago Bird Observatory and Research Centre (TTBO) which works towards advancing avian research, conservation, and education through bird banding, habitat management, and community engagement spanning across both islands. As a sponsored delegate, Giselle Ragoonanan had the privilege of diving deep into workshops and discussions that nurtured her passion for preserving Caribbean birds. From hands-on training in advanced monitoring techniques to dynamic sessions led by conservation leaders, each moment was a step toward impactful change. Join Giselle as she shares insights from inspiring keynotes, innovative collaborations, and the personal connections that transformed this conference into a pivotal experience for her work at the TTBO.
Bird Nerds Unite! Workshops and Learning: Diving into Conservation
July was a whirlwind month, and the highlight was undoubtedly the BirdsCaribbean International Conference in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. This event brought together hundreds of bird enthusiasts, conservationists, and researchers from across the world, all with a shared passion for avian life. For me, it was more than just a conference—it was an unforgettable experience filled with learning, laughter, and connections that I’ll carry with me for years to come.
The pre-conference workshops were a true highlight of the event, setting the stage for the deeper discussions that would unfold during the conference itself. These sessions were intense but incredibly rewarding, covering everything from advanced bird monitoring techniques to community-based conservation strategies diving into the nitty-gritty of bird conservation across the region. Each session offered valuable insights that were immediately applicable to our work on the ground. It was a chance to deepen my knowledge, share experiences, and learn from some of the brightest minds in bird conservation.
Giselle completes an activity during the Create Your Own Coloring and Activity Book workshop hosted by Les Fruits de Mer. (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
What made these workshops particularly effective was their interactive nature. Instead of passively absorbing information, we were actively engaged in problem-solving exercises, hands-on work, and group discussions that fostered collaboration and idea-sharing. This approach deepened our understanding of the topics and equipped us with new tools and techniques that could be adapted to our unique challenges back home.
Giselle explaining the conservation challenges she faces in Trinidad and Tobago during the BirdsCaribbean’s Capacity Building Assessment session at the conference. (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
These workshops laid a solid foundation for the conference’s breakout sessions. The knowledge and skills we gained beforehand allowed us to engage more meaningfully in discussions, ask more targeted questions, and contribute to the collective learning experience. The seamless integration of these pre-conference workshops with the broader conference agenda made the entire event cohesive and impactful, ensuring that we left with actionable takeaways and a clearer sense of direction for our conservation efforts.
The Urban Birder: David Lindo’s Inspiring Keynote
One of the most anticipated sessions of the conference was the keynote address by David Lindo, famously known as “The Urban Birder.” David’s talk was nothing short of inspiring. He’s well known for his mission to connect urban populations with nature, particularly birds. He talked about his fascinating journey to to get the nation involved in changing Britain’s national bird from the robin to a species that truly represented the country. What struck me most was his genuine passion for getting people to simply look up and appreciate the birds around them, regardless of where they are. His energy was contagious, and it left everyone in the room buzzing with ideas on how to engage more people in birding, whether in bustling cities or rural landscapes.
David Lindo, The Urban Birder, inspired delegates with his keynote on connecting with nature in urban spaces. (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
Shaping the Future of TTBO: Insights and Innovations from the BirdsCaribbean Conference
The BirdsCaribbean International Conference was a turning point for the Trinidad and Tobago Bird Observatory and Research Centre (TTBO). The insights and connections we gained during the event will undoubtedly shape our organization’s future. One of the most significant takeaways was the potential to integrate cutting-edge technologies and collaborative networks into our conservation efforts with the MOTUS project. This stood out as a particularly promising initiative. I think by joining this network, TTBO can contribute to and benefit from a global effort to better understand bird migration patterns, which is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies.
The Near Threatened White-tailed Sabrewing is one of TTBO’s target species for enhanced conservation initiatives on Tobago. (Photo by Adam Bowley ML 205389221)
Additionally, the conference highlighted the importance of rigorous, standardized monitoring techniques, such as Landbird Monitoring through point counts and transect points. Applying these methods will allow us to gather consistent, high-quality data on bird populations in Trinidad and Tobago, providing a solid foundation for our research and conservation initiatives.
The connections made at the conference were just as impactful. Engaging with other conservationists who are implementing similar projects across the region offered valuable insights into best practices, potential challenges, and innovative solutions. These interactions have already begun to shape our approach to future projects, ensuring that TTBO’s efforts are aligned with global conservation standards, and are part of a broader, collaborative network.
Building Connections and Sharing Our Work
One of the most rewarding aspects of the conference was the opportunity to share the work we’ve been doing in Trinidad and Tobago with a broader audience. Presenting our initiatives and progress at the Trinidad and Tobago Bird Observatory and Research Centre sparked insightful conversations and constructive feedback from peers across the region. It was incredibly validating to hear seasoned professionals express admiration for our efforts, and even more so to engage in dialogues where we could exchange ideas and strategies.
Giselle discussing her research project with Jamaican ornithologist Dr Ann Sutton. (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
Northern Waterthrush. (Photo by Jesse Gordon)
Che Ragoonanan’s presentation on community engagement in Trinidad. (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
Children and ARC Conservation members wear their hand crafted masks.
Kelvin Kirk discussing his study on the avifauna of Tobago with Cuban ornithologist and scientific illustrator Arnaldo Toledo. (Photo by Holly Garrod)
Daveka Boodram speaking about efforts to conserve the Near Threatened White-tailed Sabrewing in Tobago.
Shivam Mahadeo and Jennifer Wheeler reviewing the data obtained from his seabird research in Tobago. (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
The connections we made were not just professional; they were deeply personal. It was fascinating to see how scientists and conservationists from different corners of the Caribbean and the world, each working in distinct ecosystems, were tackling similar challenges. The sessions became a melting pot of ideas, where everyone was eager to share their successes, failures, and lessons learned. We were all trying to piece together similar puzzles in our respective environments, and this collective brainstorming inspired me.
The genuine interest people showed in our work was both humbling and motivating. There was a strong sense of camaraderie as we realized that, despite the geographical distances, we were all part of a larger, interconnected community. These interactions reinforced the idea that conservation is not a solitary pursuit but a collaborative effort that thrives on shared knowledge and mutual support. For me, the conference drove us beyond networking; it was about building lasting partnerships and fostering a regional network of allies who are all striving towards the same goal: the preservation of our unique Caribbean biodiversity.
The Grand Silent Auction: Beautiful Chaos
The Grand Silent Auction was, in true Caribbean style, anything but silent. It was a delightful, chaotic spectacle where the usual calm and composed demeanor of scientists gave way to competitive zeal. Picture this: conservationists and researchers, who are usually discussing bird migration patterns and habitat restoration, suddenly turn into stealthy bidders, eyeing each other’s movements with laser focus. The air was thick with a beautiful and disruptive chaos as everyone tried to silently undermine their competitors by upping the bid by just 50 cents (AKA ME LOL). The room was filled with furtive glances, whispered strategies, and the occasional playful smirk as someone outbid their colleague at the last second. It was one of the funniest yet most rewarding human interactions I’ve ever observed—who knew that scientists could be so cutthroat when there’s a field guide or a rare bird print on the line? The auction was a hilarious reminder that, underneath the serious commitment to conservation, we all have a playful, competitive side just waiting for the right moment to emerge. And yes, ah win the map I alone bid on! Success!
Bidders placing their last, and hopefully winning bids during the Silent Auction. (Photo by Holly Garrod)
The Infamous Field Trip: From Punta Cana to “Poola Cana”
Giselle enjoying sightseeing on her ‘Poola Cana’ trip.
Ah, the field trip—what should have been a serene journey to the stunning hotspot of Punta Cana turned into an adventure all its own. In a classic case of “missing the bus,” what actually happened was the bus was scheduled to leave at 3:30am and I snoozed my alarm. Instead of Punta Cana, we jokingly dubbed our unexpected destination “Poola Cana.” We may not have reached our intended location, but the pool, pizza, and spontaneous birding we enjoyed made it one of the trip’s highlights. Sometimes, the best memories are the ones you don’t wake up on time for!
A Journey of Inspiration and Growth
Attending the BirdsCaribbean International Conference was not just an opportunity for professional development—it was a journey of inspiration and growth. My primary purpose for attending was to deepen my understanding of regional conservation efforts, to learn from others, and to find ways to enhance the work we’re doing in Trinidad and Tobago. BirdsCaribbean delivered on all these fronts and went far beyond my expectations.
The collective energy of the conference was palpable. Even those who have been in the field for over 20 years were visibly inspired by the new ideas and fresh perspectives brought by the younger generation of conservationists. There was a sense of renewal, as seasoned professionals shared their wisdom while also eagerly embracing the innovative approaches presented by up-and-coming researchers and activists. It was a powerful reminder that conservation is a dynamic field, one that benefits immensely from intergenerational collaboration.
Members of the TTBO at the poster session.
For me, the conference reaffirmed the importance of our work and provided a renewed sense of purpose. I left Santo Domingo with a deeper commitment to the birds and ecosystems we strive to protect, fueled by the knowledge that we are part of a vibrant and supportive community. The experience was a reminder that no matter how challenging our work may be, we are not alone in this journey. We are all connected by our shared passion for the natural world and our determination to ensure that future generations can continue to marvel at the beauty of Caribbean birdlife.
The BirdsCaribbean International Conference was more than just an event; it was a transformative experience. It strengthened my resolve, expanded my horizons, and connected me with a network of incredible individuals who are all making a difference in their own unique ways. As I return to Trinidad and Tobago, I carry with me not only new knowledge and ideas, but also the inspiration and support of a community that I am proud to be a part of.
Giselle Ragoonanan is an Indigenous naturalist and wildlife conservationist with a deep passion for preserving biodiversity. A certified NABC bird bander and nature soundscape recordist, Giselle is honing expertise in avian research and conservation. As the co-founder of the Trinidad and Tobago Bird Observatory and Research Centre (TTBO), she has been working towards advancing bird conservation in the Caribbean. Giselle is also a committed educator, sharing her knowledge and fostering a deeper connection between people and the natural world. Through her work, she continues to inspire and engage communities in the protection of wildlife and their habitats.
Acknowledgements
We extend our sincerest gratitude to everyone who contributed to the overwhelming success of this conference! Travel and Attendance scholarships were made possible through the generosity of our conference sponsors, donors, and local partners. These include The Rufford Foundation, Audubon, US Forest Service, Teleuniverso, American Bird Conservancy, Banco Popular, Caribbean Biodiversity Fund, Fondo Nacional para el Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (Fondo MARENA) Dominican Republic, Naturalist Journeys, Vermont Center for Ecostudies, Mass Audubon, Cúa Conservation Agency, Vortex Optics, Rare Species Conservatory Foundation, and the FUPAROCA Foundation.
Note that the same proposal cannot be submitted for more than one award in a given year.
BirdsCaribbean’s general Grant Application Guidelines are available here.
Learn more about the eligibility criteria of each program by visiting their respective websites.
Seeking Donors
BirdsCaribbean encourages others to consider endowments or other large awards to ensure that our grants programs continue indefinitely. You may also make a donation to support our work. BirdsCaribbean is a tax-deductible organization in the United States.
Birdwatching is a fun hobby that everyone can enjoy. Being in nature with people who share your interests can be very fulfilling. However, not everyone has equal access to these experiences, especially those with disabilities or chronic illnesses. While people with disabilities may not be able to explore trails without help, we should be wary of assuming that they are not interested in experiencing the joys of nature, and that they do not care deeply about the wellbeing of the environment.
Virginia Rose, disability rights advocate and founder of the non-profit Birdability, who has been a wheelchair user for over forty years knows how challenging it can be to enjoy nature as a disabled person. But her use of a mobility aid did not diminish her curiosity about the world around her. As she inspiringly shared, “the only thing that I felt really changed was that I had to manage getting around in a wheelchair.”
Founder and President of Birdability, Virginia Rose. (Photo credit: birdability.org)
It is this desire to explore and connect with the world that has fueled her dedication to increasing access to nature for people of all abilities and helping them find community. Inspired by movements like #BlackBirdersWeek, Latino Conservation Week, and Let’s Go Birding Together, Virginia founded Birdability in 2020. Birdability’s vision is that birding is for everyone — including those with disabilities and other health concerns. We at BirdsCaribbean wholeheartedly support this vision. Over 1 million people in the Caribbean are living with some form of disability and face daily discrimination and exclusion.
But our partners in Antigua and Barbuda, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Cuba and St. Vincent and the Grenadines are exploring ways to make their birding events more welcoming and inclusive. For this year’s Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival, our partners at the University of Havana Bird Ecology Group (UHBEG) visited the Solidarity with Panama school for disabled children to give a talk on the endemic birds of Cuba. They were then taken to the National Botanical Garden for a short birdwatching tour and ended the day painting, building puzzles, and playing bird-themed dominoes. Alieny González Alfonso, member of UHBEG and event organizer, beautifully captured the curious spirit of the students, noting, “They participated in many activities with such enthusiasm and eagerness to learn about Cuba’s birds.”
We would love to see more of these events taking place throughout the region, whether it’s allowing visually impaired participants to “see” birds by handling carved wooden birds, as done by Sociedad Ornitólogica Puertorriqueña, or learning to ID birds using bird songs, as done bySimón Guerrero.
Simón Guerrero was a founding member of the Society for the Conservation and Study of Caribbean Birds. An engaging teacher and speaker with a great sense of humor, he influenced many to become fans and defenders of nature for many decades.
University of Havana Bird Ecology Group brought the wonders of birds and birdwatching to differently abled students. (Photo by University of Havana Bird Ecology Group)
A member of the Antigua and Barbuda Association of Persons with Disabilities birdwatching with staff from the Environmental Awareness Group. (Photo by Sherrel Charles)
Birdability Week (21st-27th October 2024) offers the opportunity for birding groups, non-governmental organizations, and groups of family and friends to host an accessible bird outing. With some thoughtful planning this event asserts that birding can be enjoyable for everybody.
Birdability focuses on people with mobility challenges, blindness or low vision, chronic illness, intellectual or developmental disabilities, mental illness, and those who are neurodivergent, deaf or hard of hearing, or have other health concerns. So if you are looking for Information and resources to help your organization be more mindful and inclusive of these birders please check Birdability’s their website!
Watch the Birds or Follow the Birdsong — Birding is for ALL
A Scaly-breasted Thrasher calls in Guadeloupe. (Photo by Judd Patterson)
Help Put Accessible Birding Locations in the Caribbean on the Map!
There is also a Birdability Site Map which allows you to search for potential accessible sites near you. The majority of the locations are in North America and a few have been identified in Central America and South America. If you know of accessible birding locations on your island we encourage you to complete on-site, in-person Birdability Site Reviews and add them to the Birdability Map.
Birdability Site Map showing locations of nature reserves and parks with varying degrees of accessibility. (Photo credit: birdability.org)
Attend a Virtual Event and Connect with Differently Abled Birders
Students at Sandy Bay Primary School with a St Vincent Parrot plushie during CEBF celebrations organized by the local NGO SCIENCE. (Photo by Science SVG)
BirdsCaribbean is thrilled to lead the charge for the annual Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival (CEBF), collaborating with a vibrant network of environmental and community organizations throughout the region! Join us as we reflect on the fantastic celebrations of our beloved Caribbean birds, being in nature, and the joy of discovering the fascinating world of insects. Together, we’re making bird conservation an exciting and essential part of daily life in the Caribbean!
This year, the Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival (CEBF) celebrated the theme “Protect Insects, Protect Birds.” This theme highlighted the vital connection between birds and insects, emphasizing the crucial role insects play in sustaining bird populations and ensuring the overall health of ecosystems. The festival ran from April to May, with some organizations continuing the festivities well into summer. Our partners were instrumental in uniting bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, conservation organizations, and communities across the region to raise awareness and foster a deeper appreciation for endemic birds and the environmental balance that supports them.
A hive of activity across the Caribbean
This year’s CEBF saw vibrant participation from more than 20islands. CEBF island coordinators organized engaging activities, including birdwatching tours, habitat cleanups, parades, educational talks, art exhibitions, and so much more, all focused on endemic bird species and the critical role insects play in their survival.
Insects provide a rich source of protein essential for birds’ energy needs and overall health. Unfortunately, insect populations worldwide are declining, making this festival theme a timely call to action for insect conservation. “This year’s theme serves as a friendly reminder that every bee, butterfly and bug play a vital role in keeping nature thriving,” said Eduardo Llegus, co-regional coordinator of the CEBF. “Unsung heroes, insects are key players in our ecosystems. Without them, many birds – and the very balance of nature – would face serious problems, including the forests and wetlands that are essential for their survival. Protecting insects is about ensuring that all life, including birds, in the Caribbean can flourish together.”
A Martinique Oriole searches for food. They eat both insects and fruits. (Photo by Bussier Romain-Macaulay Library-ML136544221)
Trinidad and Tobago
The Trinidad and Tobago Bird Observatory and Research Centre (TTBO) held a fun-filled event hosting more than double the previous year’s participants — from 30 in 2023 to over 70 in 2024! Activities like the “Save the Soil for Cicadas” parade and interactive displays on birdwatching and insect identification captivated participants. The day culminated with habitat model constructions of nests and hives.
Are you Team Insects or Team Birds — or both?! (Photo by TTBO)
Handmade nests with paper birds. (Photo by TTBO)
Green-backed Trogon spotted during the TTBO Bird Harvest festival. (Photo by TTBO)
Youth learning about beekeeping. (Photo by TTBO)
Proud to be on Team Insects! (Photo by TTBO)
Beekeepers demonstrating how to handle bees safely. (Photo by TTBO)
Happy to be on Team Birds! (Photo by TTBO)
Youth birdwatching during the Bird Harvest festival. (Photo by TTBO)
Youth wearing an insect face mask. (Photo by TTBO)
St Vincent and the Grenadines
The team at Science Initiative for Environmental Conservation and Education (SCIENCE SVG) brought the excitement of bird festivities to Sandy Bay Primary School. Students were thrilled to dig deep into the world of their unique endemic birds, such as the majestic St. Vincent Parrot and the charming Whistling Warbler. For many, it was their first-time observing the beautiful birds in their schoolyard through a spotting scope, sparking awe and a deeper appreciation for local wildlife.
The event was not just about birdwatching; it also featured a variety of fun activities, including face painting, coloring, and mask-making. These creative endeavors allowed students to explore self-expression while learning about birds and insects.
Student displays his colored in drawing of the Whistling Warbler. (Photo by SCIENCE SVG)
Students coloring endemic bird coloring pages and decorating their insect and bird masks at Sandy Bay Primary School. (Photo by SCIENCE SVG)
Youth wearing a bird mask that she colored. (Photo by SCIENCE SVG)
Guadeloupe
AMAZONAhosted a birdfair for the community of Petit-Bourg. The event was a delightful celebration of nature, with birdwatching taking center stage. Enthusiastic participants ventured into the lush surroundings, where they were thrilled to spot an impressive 19 species of birds, including the striking Guadeloupe Woodpecker and the adorable Plumbeous Warbler.
The Guadeloupe Woodpecker is endemic to Guadeloupe. (Photo by Frantz Delcroix)
Plumbeous Warbler. (Photo by Frantz Delcroix)
St Eustatius
The St. Eustatius National Parks Foundation (STENAPA) hosted a booth at the monthly Taste of the Cultures event, allowing them to engage with and educate the public and visitors, especially children, on the importance of birds and insects through fun games. A major hit was the “I spy” bird game where children used binoculars to spot small bird photos that were set up around the booth. They shared with us that teenagers especially enjoyed the game, one of whom exclaimed “You should have more of these games! Seriously, I was looking for all the hidden birds around the booth with the binoculars for a while!” They also provided Endemic Birds of the West Indies coloring books, Statia bird ID guides, activity guides, stickers and other materials to fuel their interest in birds and nature.
STENAPA staff setting up their bird booth for the event. (Photo by STENAPA)
Posters about insect types and functions, created by STENAPA staff. (Photo by STENAPA)
STENAPA’s bird booth at the Taste of Cultures event with books, stickers and other materials on display. (Photo by STENAPA)
Antigua and Barbuda
barbudanGO hosted a variety of activities aimed at enhancing understanding and appreciating the Barbuda Warbler, the only endemic bird to Antigua and Barbuda, currently listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN. Participants engaged in artistic events that provided insights into the warbler’s habitat and conservation needs, fostering awareness and advocacy for its protection. Key highlights included the “Sip and Paint” event, which combined relaxation with artistic expression and education, and the “Puzzle Master” challenge designed for adults.
For children, they offered a “Birdhouse Construction” workshop where 11 to 16 year olds built and decorated birdhouses for a garden that was specifically planted to attract the Barbuda Warbler!
Completed birdhouses. (Photo by BarbudanGO)
Over in Antigua, the Environmental Awareness Group hosted bird fairs at two Important Bird Areas on the island: McKinnon’s Saltpond and Fitches Creek/Parham Harbour (Byams Wharf) and a habitat cleanup. Participants enjoyed seeing regional endemics like the Lesser Antillean Bullfinch, Caribbean Elaenia, and Green-throated Carib. Of course, no CEBF bird fair would be complete without games from our BirdSleuth Caribbean curriculum such as “Bird Spy Bingo” and the “Bird Survival Game.” Find out more about BirdSleuth Caribbean here.
Habitat cleanup crew consisting of members of both Environmental Awareness Group and The Rotaract Club. (Photo by EAG)
St. Martin
Les Fruits de Mer integrated birds into their larger Endemic Animal Festival, which included challenging scavenger hunts, free book giveaways, and lots of art and craft activities for over 100 attendees. Their coloring and activity books are free to download here.
A young girl decorating her pouch using bird stencils during the Endemic Animal Festival. (Photo by Mark Yokoyama)
Les Fruits de Mer founders Mark Yokoyama and Jennifer Yerkes with volunteers.
Both children and adults attended the Endemic Animal Festival. (Photo by Mark Yokoyama)
Young girls learning about the endemic animals of St. Martin. (Photo by Mark Yokoyama)
Puerto Rico
Conservation Opportunity headed to Playa Buje, Cabo Rojo for a bird census — which we were told was a hit among participants! They rounded out the day with a beach cleanup, an educational talk that emphasized the integral role insects play in bird conservation, and installed an interpretive sign at the beach reminding beach goers to keep their environment clean.
Participants of the morning bird census led by Carla Montalvo of Roots and Shoots Puerto Rico.
Bird ID cards used by participants of the morning bird census. (Photo by Conservation Opportunity)
Fabiola Torres, Conservation Opportunity Founder, giving a presentation on endemic birds and insects. (Photo by Conservation Opportunity)
And at El Yunque National Forest, over 1,000 enthusiastic participants came together for what could be the biggest CEBF one-day event of the year! The Fundación Amigos de El Yunque joined forces with Para La Naturaleza, Fundación Alma de Bahía, Sociedad Ornitológica Puertorriqueña (SOPI), Hacienda El Portal, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service to create a spectacular celebration of birds and bugs! From bird tours to inspiring presentations and nature-based activities, this event was a whirlwind of energy, creativity, and a shared commitment to protecting our birds!
Opening remarks from Yaritza Bobonis. (Photo by Amigos de El Yunque)
Iguaco (Puerto Rican Parrot mascot) from USFWS with Amigos de El Yunque. (Photo by Amigos de El Yunque)
Families having fun at the festival. (Photo by Amigos de El Yunque)
Youth learning how birds eat and build their nests through sensory play. (Photo by Amigos de El Yunque)
Presentation by Jessica Ilse from Forest Service. (Photo by Amigos de El Yunque)
USFWS exhibit at the festival. (Photo by Amigos de El Yunque)
Coriecis, Inc. invited adults and children to learn about the endemic birds of Puerto Rico through a webinar, after which they took the learning into nature at the Piñones State Forest — where they documented 34 species! Check out their eBird checklist here.Surfrider Foundation Puerto Rico and Pajareo Virtual superbly integrated their CEBF celebrations into Global Big Day bird counts. They formed a small but determined team to spread the message that insects are important to birds and people and conducted a bird count at Playa Table Rock. Here is their checklist from Global Big Day. Along their route they spotted some insect munching birds like the Gray Kingbird and Puerto Rican Flycatcher. This activity was repeated at Caño Madre Vieja Reserve where 33 species were recorded.
Coriecis’ virtual presentation on the endemic birds of Puerto Rico. (Photo by Coriecis)
Birding group at Bosque Estatal de Pinones. (Photo by Coriecis)
Surfrider Foundation Puerto Rico’s small but dedicated birding group at Playa Table Rock for CEBF and GBD 2024. (Photo by Surfrider Foundation Puerto Rico)
Gray Kingbird feeding, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Edgardo Cruz)
At the University High School, Miguel Sabatier (OREC) gave a riveting presentation highlighting the importance of insects for both endemic and migratory birds. Miguel shared with us that “the students, teachers, and graduate students’ faces lit up when they heard the bird calls and recognized some they were familiar with.”
Birding is truly for every body and we are proud to share that the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources’ CEBF activities involved leading an interpretive tour through La Plata Reservoir Natural Reserve for a group of blind birders.
The staff of the US Fish and Wildlife Service led a massive 580 participants on exhilarating birdwatching tours through Laguna Cartagena and Cabo Rojo NWR. They also organized an epic movie night under the stars that brought people together in celebration of birds and community.
Movie night at Cabo Rojo. (Photo by USFWS)
The staff at the Estuario de la Bahía de San Juan concentrated on recruiting more citizen scientists from nearby communities for their bird monitoring initiatives. To engage various community groups, they offered informative webinars and exciting birdwatching trips to local natural reserves.
Eliezer Nieves giving a presentation on the birds of Estuario de la Bahia de San Juan.
Despite the rainy weather which impacted attendance, Para La Naturaleza made a meaningful impact by introducing a dedicated participant to the fascinating world of birds. Together, they identified 15 species, including six that are endemic to Puerto Rico.
Eduardo Llegus, CEBF Coordinator based in Puerto Rico, along with his students got their hands dirty for the birdies and completed an early morning habitat cleanup at Punta Cucharas Nature Reserve in Ponce.
Eduardo with is students at Punta Cucharas.
Dominican Republic
Grupo Jaragua created an exciting roster of events for Dominicans to discover and celebrate their iconic birds. Throughout May, they hosted a variety of engaging activities, including an interpretative walk and bird count celebration for Global Big Day on May 11. They also held a recycling workshop and a short talk on the connections between pollution, insects, and birds on May 25. Their vibrant social media campaign featured nine informative posts, while a live webinar on May 16 brought in a wider audience. Additionally, influencer, nature advocate, and entomologist Yohan Nunez (@YohanNature) produced a captivating reel, and bird conservation outreach took place in the preschool program Natura Avventura throughout the month.
The CEBF celebrations in Cuba were a huge success. We owe a huge thank you to our amazing partners at Club de observadores de aves Granma, Club de Observadores de Aves de Guisa, Club de Observadores de Aves en Libertad (Holguín), Grupo Ecologia de Aves (University of Havana) and Jardín Botánico Nacional Cuba, Empresa Flora y Fauna, Museo de Historia Natural Joaquín Fernández de la Vara, Museo Nacional de Historia Natural de Cuba, and independent coordinator Yorniel Martínez Cruz! Their enthusiasm and expertise were truly invaluable in making the events both memorable and impactful for Cuban bird conservation.
People of all ages and abilities enjoyed bird-themed puzzles, cartoons, and games, while also taking part in habitat clean-ups and tree planting. They were especially excited to see the birds in their neighborhoods, school yards, and nature reserves. Local media, and a podcast for kids by kids, Amiguitos de Las Aves, helped spread the word about the important relationship between birds and insects.
Youth enjoying bird games offered by the University of Havana Bird Ecology Group. (Photo by University of Havana Bird Ecology Group)
A young Cuban birder’s one-stop bird station set up by Club de Observadores de Aves de Guisa.
How long is your wingspan? A young girl measures her arm length against a banner with various bird wing lengths printed on it. (Photo by University of Havana Bird Ecology Group)
University of Havana Bird Ecology Group brought the wonders of birds and birdwatching to differently abled students. (Photo by University of Havana Bird Ecology Group)
University of Havana Bird Ecology Group member shows a younger birder where to locate the bird. (Photo by University of Havana Bird Ecology Group)
Protect Cuban birds posters designed by Yorniel for the Proyecto Amiguitos de la Naturaleza.
Youth birdwatching in Laguna de Maya Wildlife Refuge in Matanzas, Cuba.
Youth with their bird masks and participation certificates. (Photo by University of Havana Bird Ecology Group)
Jamaica
BirdLife Jamaica joined forces with Hope Gardens once again to host not just one, but two captivating bird walks at the beautiful Hope Botanical Gardens. This engaging event allowed participants to spot some of Jamaica’s unique endemic birds right in the heart of the city of Kingston! To cap off the experience, attendees also had the chance to plant bird-friendly trees, contributing to the preservation of these remarkable species. It was a wonderful blend of education, appreciation, and action for our feathered friends!
Group birdwatching at Hope Botanical Gardens. (Photo by BirdLife Jamaica)
Common Gallinule at Hope Botanical Gardens. (Photo by BirdLife Jamaica)
Insect mounts on display at Hope Botanical Gardens. (Photo by BirdLife Jamaica)
The Yellow-billed Parrot is one of two endemic parrots on Jamaica.(Photo by BirdLife Jamaica)
Two young birders using our Landbirds of the Caribbean bird ID card while birdwatching. (Photo by BirdLife Jamaica)
You’re never too young to start birdwatching! (Photo by BirdLife Jamaica)
Over in Clarendon, our partner Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation hosted a poster competition for primary and secondary schools. They also provided delightful activities at the Portland Bight Discovery Centre such as Pin the Beak on the Bird, a Scavenger Hunt, and a Guess That Bird Sound activity for staff, students, and teachers. After an engaging presentation by guest speaker Michelle Roberts (BirdLife Jamaica) on Caribbean birds, participants were led on a birdwatching trip around the Centre.
Michelle Roberts speaks to attentive students during CCAM’s CEBF event at the Portland Bight Discovery Centre
CCAM staff member and Michelle Roberts teaching students how to use binoculars. (Photo by CCAM)
Students in CCAM’s bird hide using binoculars to watch birds. (Photo by CCAM)
Poster from the Pin the Beak on The Bird game. (Photo by CCAM)
The Bahamas
On Grand Bahama Island, EARTHCARE Bahamas was kept busy with tree planting (over 1500 mangrove seedlings!) and habitat clean-up at Water Cay; a magnificent birdfair and thrilling bird count at Rand Nature Centre; and a presentation at Bishop Michael Eldon School introducing students to the wonderful world of birds.
Gail Woon of EARTHCARE Bahamas explaining how to complete the scavenger hunt. (Photo by EARTHCARE Bahamas)
Gail and Dr Ancilleno Davis speaking to attendees about Bahamian birds during their CEBF 2024 event. (Photo by EARTHCARE Bahamas)
A Legacy of Advocacy for Urban Wildlife and Inclusivity in Conservation
We remember an extraordinary environmental educator, Simón Guerrero, who passed away earlier this year. His research on urban ecology focused on making cities more habitable for wildlife, including birds. Simón had a remarkable ability to bring the wonder of birds into classrooms, captivating both students and teachers. A passionate advocate for inclusivity, he founded a birding group for blind Dominicans and emphasized the importance of ensuring that birds “know” our actions are in their favor.
His bird festivals always included the planting of native trees around schools and the university he worked at. Through the CEBF Small Grants and with the support of the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo, he was able to install nests for Hispaniolan Woodpeckers and Hispaniolan Parakeets. The Hispaniolan Parakeet is one of two endemic but threatened parrot species on the island. While there is a breeding population on the university campus, there are not enough nest cavities. During World Migratory Bird Day celebrations last year, Simón shared, “I always plant some trees to be sure birds will know we are doing something real for them, not just talking.”
Simón Guerrero was a founding member of the Society for the Conservation and Study of Caribbean Birds. An engaging teacher and speaker with a great sense of humor, he influenced many to become fans and defenders of nature for many decades.
Students plant the firebush plant in their school’s garden. (Photo by Simón Guerrero)
Artificial nest boxes built by Simón and his team. (Photo by Simón Guerrero)
Simon leading a birdtour in the DR. (Photo by Grupo Jaragua)
We believe that his vision for greener urban spaces will continue to inspire future generations of conservationists.
Conservation champions honored at #BCDR24
In July, we were grateful for the opportunity to connect with our amazing community of Caribbean conservationists at the BirdsCaribbean 24th International Conference in the Dominican Republic. We took the opportunity to honor organizations and educators too. They were awarded for their exceptional efforts in celebrating the CEBF over the past two years in consistently organizing creative and enjoyable activities for youth and local communities, and submitting their event reports and photos. Recipients of the 2024 Educator Awards will be shared in an upcoming blog highlighting all of BirdsCaribbean’s 2024 awardees.
We also distributed CEBF materials, featuring the artwork of Arnaldo Toledo, to participating organizations for their bird conservation outreach activities.
Feathery facts and free resources for classrooms and homes
Each day, we featured a new Endemic Bird of the Day on our website and across BirdsCaribbean’s socials, sharing 27 new species in 2024. The species were carefully selected to include truly unique birds, like the Vitelline Warbler; species which keep birders’ ID skills in check, like the Antillean Palm Swift; and endemic crooners, like the Greater Antillean Elaenia. You can find the complete library of 131 endemic birds covered thus far here.
Each endemic bird profile was accompanied by a beautifully drawn image by award-winning Cuban artist Arnaldo Toledo, stunning high quality photos and videos, online puzzles tailored for different levels (between six and 1,024 pieces), and bird calls. Fun, free and engaging activities were also provided for both kids and adults, including downloadable coloring pages, experiments, up-cycle crafts, and more. If you’re looking for more insect activities to do with children, inside and outdoors, to have fun together and be creative, download our ‘Incredible Insects’ activity booklet today.
This year’s CEBF is over — but don’t worry, we still have plenty of bird content for you to enjoy! Make sure you are following us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn; and have joined the BirdsCaribbean mailing list to keep up to date with our latest news via our monthly newsletter.
The Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival will return next April 2025 — but we need your support to help ensure that bird education remains accessible to all in the Caribbean.
Your donation is an invaluable investment in the future of Caribbean bird conservation and will help us provide materials and access to capacity-building programs to early-career Caribbean conservationists. These passionate individuals are committed to advancing bird conservation on their islands through engaging outreach events, like those listed above, that inspire communities to embrace bird-friendly practices. Your support will help amplify their efforts, fostering a deeper connection between people and the incredible wildlife that surrounds them.
Acknowledgements: A massive THANK YOU to the island coordinators for your enthusiasm and dedication to making this another memorable CEBF! Each year we see a growing number of participants committed to increasing their knowledge of Caribbean birds and actively working to protect their habitats. We also extend our gratitude to our donors and members who help us provide the coordinators with the support and resources they need to educate and inspire future generations of bird and nature loving communities. Special thanks to the US Forest Service, International Programs and the United Nations Development Program Ridge to Reef and IWEco Project for funding for our education and conservation programs.
The Dominican Republic, renowned for its pristine beaches and tropical charm, also boasts 33 endemic bird species and a wide range of habitats — from coastal mangroves to misty cloud forests. At our 24th International Conference, attendees had the opportunity to experience this natural diversity firsthand. The submissions we received for our photo contest beautifully captured the essence of the unique birds and landscapes of this Caribbean gem. We’re excited to showcase the winning shots that highlight the avian diversity of the Dominican Republic.
The judges were impressed by the stunning composition, technical skill, humor, and rich emotion reflected in the submissions. Photos were taken between 15th and 25th July, 2024 and uploaded to Flickr (photo sharing site). Click here to view all the photos submitted in the contest (labeled with tag: BCPhotoContest2024). The Grand Prize for the contest was generously donated by Vortex Optics.
Photographers had the opportunity to submit up to six photographs in each of three categories:
Endemics – including endemic birds of Hispaniola (Dominican Republic and Haiti) and regional endemics;
Fun With Birds and People – showing humans, birds and nature interacting (including conference activities); and
Birds and Nature – featuring Hispaniola’s non-endemic birds, close-up shots of other wildlife, natural habitats, and landscapes.
BELOW ARE THE WINNERS, WITH SOME COMMENTS FROM THE JUDGES:
Grand Prize Winner
Hispaniolan Parakeets by Rondel Smith. The judges were unanimously captivated by this vibrant and energetic photo. Their comments highlight its engaging qualities: “A brilliant shot, full of life and movement. The composition is perfect, drawing the eye to each bird in turn—it feels as if even the birds are having fun!” Another judge noted, “Excellent composition and framing. It’s dynamic—you can almost hear the noise and sense the social interaction. The colors are striking, and the image sparks conversation.”
Hispaniolan Parakeets are known for their noisy, social behavior, often seen in large, chattering groups, just like in this photo. They’re a common sight on the rooftops of Santo Domingo, where their lively interactions are hard to miss!
Hispaniolan Parakeets by Rondel Smith.
Endemics
1st Prize: Broad-billed Tody by Juan Oteyza. “Great capture of this gorgeous bird emerging from its nest hole.” “Eye level with subject, intimate, shows behavior, teaches about the natural history of Broad-billed Tody.”
Broad-billed Toady by Juan Oteyza.
2nd Prize: Palmchat by Rondel Smith. “This photo really works with such an interesting green pattern formed by the palm fronds.” “Picture is in focus, there is a nice angle of the bird on the palm frond, it’s well lit, and there is a nice eyeshine.”
Palmchat by Rondel Smith.
3rd Prize: Hispaniolan Mango by Noelia Nieves. “I love the way this composition between bird and plant is color coordinated! The head is in such sharp focus.”
1st Prize: For the Love of Birds by Giselle Deane. “This picture for me sums up the wonder and delight of birdwatching.” “Shows the joy of birding while bringing people together.”
For the Love of Birds by Giselle Deane.
2nd Prize: Kayakers by Martin Rodriguez. “Great composition of three very happy people!” “Good in-focus shot complemented by a nice blurred background.”
Kayakers by Martin Rodriguez.
3rd Prize: Silent Auction by Daniela Ventura. “No doubt about what is going on here. Captures the energy of the atmosphere very well.” “Nice picture, good subject.”
1st Prize: Cucu (Burrowing Owl) by Martin Rodriguez. “Eye to eye with subject, good depth of field, great definition, habitat, moment of surprise.”
Cucu (Burrowing Owl) by Martin Rodriguez.
2nd Prize: Village Weaver by Rondel Smith. “Very eye-catching, good composition, definition, it’s dramatic.”
Village Weaver by Rondel Smith.
3rd Prize: Village Weaver by Tommie Catanach. “An extraordinary pose has made this a really interesting photo.” “Photo shows movement and bird behavior, has good light and subject balance.”
A heartfelt thank you to our three outstanding judges — Andrew Dobson, Ivan Mota, and Nick Hollands — for their time and careful evaluation of each submission. We are also incredibly grateful to Vortex Optics for generously donating the Grand Prize. We deeply appreciate the artistry and dedication everyone brought to capturing the diverse wildlife and conference events with such respect. Thank you to all participants in the contest!
Enjoy this photo gallery of all the Honorable Mentions!
Broad-billed Tody by Michael Ocasio. Honorable Mention in the Endemics category.
Hispaniolan Spindalis by Tommie Catanach. Honorable Mention in the Endemics Category.
En busca de aves en la belleza de las dunas by Isamar Flores. Honorable Mention in the Fun with Birds and People category.
The White-breasted Thrasher has been split into two species! (Photo by Hank Tseng and Adams Toussaint)
Exciting news is in from the American Ornithological Society (AOS) — the Caribbean can now boast six newly recognized endemic bird species! The 65th Supplement to the AOS Checklist of North American Birds has recently been released, bringing the total number of Caribbean endemics to an impressive 185 species.
Rather than discovering completely unknown birds, these new species typically emerge from deeper research into the unique geographical and biological features of the Caribbean. Islands are hotspots for endemism because isolated bird populations tend to evolve into distinct forms over time. As these differences accumulate, some populations eventually diverge enough to be classified as separate species!
These taxonomic updates often come in the form of “splits,” where what was once considered a single species is divided into multiple species due to significant differences in traits such as appearance, genetics, or behavior. In contrast, “lumps” occur when distinct populations are found to be similar enough to merge into a single species. Ornithologists use a combination of genetic analysis, morphology (shape and size), plumage, and vocalizations to determine whether a bird population deserves species status.
This year, we’re thrilled to introduce six newly recognized bird species in the Caribbean, thanks to two exciting splits!
Presenting the Caribbean’s Newest Endemic Birds:
The Wrenaissance is Here!
The bird formerly known as the House Wren (Troglodytes aedon) has undergone a major revision and is now split into seven different species — four of which are newly recognized as Caribbean endemics! Say hello to the Grenada Wren(Troglodytes grenadensis), St. Lucia Wren (Troglodytes mesoleucus), St. Vincent Wren (Troglodytes musicus), and Kalinago Wren (Troglodytes martinicensis), which is native to Dominica. The Kalinago Wren, named in honor of the island’s Indigenous Kalinago people, was also historically found on Guadeloupe and Martinique, though it has since disappeared from those islands.
Additionally, the Cozumel Wren (Troglodytes beani) has been recognized as a distinct species for Cozumel, Mexico; and Trinidad and Tobago now has the Southern House Wren (Troglodytes musculus), whose range extends into Central and South America. Further research may even reveal that Trinidad and Tobago harbors its own distinct wren species, so stay tuned!
So, what makes these wrens distinct enough to be classified as separate species? One of the biggest factors is habitat. As the name House Wren implies, these birds are typically found around houses and neighborhoods, and often thrive around human settlement. However, this is not the case for Caribbean House Wrens — these birds much prefer forested and more natural habitats. While continental House Wrens have continued to thrive with expanding urbanization, many island populations have been declining, possibly due to loss of habitat.
This taxonomic split also highlights the need for more targeted conservation efforts, which can now be advanced as these birds have been given species-level recognition. Initially, the American Ornithological Society (AOS) proposed grouping all Caribbean House Wrens under a single species called the Antillean Wren. However, further genetic studies revealed that the wrens from the Lesser Antilles were more genetically distinct than previously thought, leading to the decision to split them into multiple species.
Meet the Caribbean’s New Wrens
Here’s a quick overview of our newly recognized Caribbean wrens, compared to the continental House Wren found in North America, which is small, brownish-gray, with a slightly curved bill, barred wings, and a barred, rusty-colored tail.
Grenada Wren: This species is larger and shorter-tailed with dark, richly colored plumage, and a whitish throat. It has one of the longest bills among House Wrens, giving it a distinctive, almost hammer-headed appearance. Interestingly, it behaves more similarly to the mainland House Wrens than the other Caribbean wrens, even adapting its song to urban environments.
The Grenada House Wren has dark, richly colored plumage, and a whitish throat. It also had one of the longest bills of the House Wrens. (Photo by David Hollie ML602671511)
St. Lucia Wren. The St. Lucia Wren is relatively rare and restricted to drier forest habitats in the southwestern and far northern parts of the island. Its plumage is overall paler than the Grenada Wren’s, and its song is quite different from that of its mainland relatives.
The St Lucia Wren’s plumage is paler than the Grenada Wren overall. (Photo by Charlie Bostwick ML 549893181)
St. Vincent Wren: This wren sports a lot of white and buff in its plumage, and it has a notably long wing chord, which suggests a larger overall size. Its song, too, is quite different from that of other House Wrens, making it one of the most distinctive of the new species.
The St Vincent Wren has more white and buff in its plumage. (Photo by David Hollie ML598496181)
The St Vincent Wren has a notably long wing chord. (Photo by David Hollie ML600921241)
Kalinago Wren: Unfortunately, this species has disappeared from Martinique and Guadeloupe. The remaining population on Dominica stands out with its rich rufous coloration and a long, mostly yellow bill. Its song has been described as loud and ebullient, distinctly different from that of mainland House Wrens, adding to its unique charm.
The Kalinago Wren has a distinct rufous coloration and a mostly yellow bill. (Photo by Holger Teichmann ML616854679)
Thrash Talk: The White-breasted Thrasher Split!
In more exciting news from the Lesser Antilles, we now have two new thrasher species! Say hello to the Martinique Thrasher (Ramphocinclus brachyurus) and St. Lucia Thrasher (Ramphocinclus sanctaeluciae), previously classified together as the White-breasted Thrasher (Ramphocinclus brachyurus). Genetic studies have shown that these two populations have been evolving separately for quite some time, with no evidence of gene flow or interbreeding between them. Additionally, there has been no observed movement of thrashers between Martinique and St. Lucia, further confirming that these birds are isolated and distinct species.
The Martinique Thrasher is considered Critically Endangered, while the St. Lucia Thrasher is listed as Endangered. With their elevation to official species status, there is hope this recognition will help drive more conservation efforts to protect these unique birds, such as this study of the St Lucia Thrasher.
Let’s take a closer look at these birds:
The St. Lucia Thrasher is the larger of the two. It has darker brown overall plumage, darker black lores and ear coverts, and brighter white underparts. The markings on its flanks are more neatly organized, and it lacks the scalloping on the wing coverts seen in its Martinique counterpart. Interestingly, the St. Lucia Thrasher also tends to build its nests much lower in the vegetation.
The St Lucia Thrasher has dark brown plumage overall and white underparts. (Photo by Blake Matheson ML214222511)
The Martinique Thrasher, by contrast, is smaller, with grayer plumage and muddier white underparts. Its flank markings are more irregular, and it has scalloping on the wing coverts. Both species also have distinct calls, which further supports their classification as separate species.
The Martinique Thrasher has gray brown plumage overall and muddy white underparts. (Photo by Pam Rasmussen ML 619242216)
Listen to the differences between the calls of the Martinique Thrasher and St. Lucia Thrasher.
Shearing of a Shearwater
And finally, seabird aficionados rejoice — Cory’s Shearwater has been split! This wide-ranging seabird is now recognized as two distinct species: one breeding in the Mediterranean, and the other on islands in the East Atlantic. For those worried about having even more bird names to remember, rest assured — the species observed in the Caribbean will still be known as Cory’s Shearwater (Calonectris borealis), while the Mediterranean breeders have been reclassified as Scopoli’s Shearwater (Calonectris diomedea). Both species have been recorded in the West Indies, so keep an eye out and try to photograph any Cory’s-type shearwaters you see (especially the underwing — Cory’s has less white in the underwing)!
Cory’s Shearwater feeding on fish in open water off the coast of Bermuda. (Photo by Richard Brewer ML620511968)
Scopoli’s Shearwater soaring at sea. (Photo by Brian Sullivan ML104100491)
Note that while this reclassification is exciting for our region, the shearwater’s range is not limited to the West Indies — so this does not add to our endemic checklist.
New Species Highlight the Need for More Research and Conservation
We’re thrilled to welcome these new endemics to the Caribbean! These new species underscore the ongoing potential for further bird research in the region. With new species being identified every year, it’s clear there is still much to learn about the incredible birdlife right here in our backyards, parks, forests, wetlands, and coastal habitats. It’s also imperative that we take care of these unique birds by reducing the threats they face. It’s up to all of us to protect their habitats to ensure they thrive long into the future, for the benefit and enjoyment of all.
So — did these recent splits add any new species to your life list? Or have they just given you six more reasons to start planning your next Caribbean birding adventure?
Ready, set—BIRD! It’s time to flock together for the season’s biggest day of birding!
A male Magnolia Warbler in breeding plumage, with his bright yellow underparts and heavy black streaking, forming a necklace band on its upper breast.
Get ready for a spectacular October Big Day! This annual event, falling on Saturday, October 12, 2024, coincides with World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) and is a thrilling celebration of our feathered friends and the vibrant birding community.
At BirdsCaribbean, we eagerly anticipate October Big Day. It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to unite with fellow bird lovers to share in the joy of birdwatching and the beauty of Caribbean wetlands, forests, botanical gardens, and neighborhoods. This is our chance to celebrate our passion for birds, support science, and strengthen our conservation efforts. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning from your balcony or heading to a prime birding hotspot with your birding crew, October 12 is your moment to puff out your chest and rack up those eBird checklists!
And there’s more! Global Bird Weekend runs from October 11 to 13, offering even more opportunities to engage and possibly set new world records. Last year, we saw record-breaking participation during Global Bird Weekend—36,332 people from 191 countries submitted 83,735 checklists with eBird, and we’re aiming to surpass that achievement this year. Let’s make birdwatching history together!
Where are the birds, and what are they doing?
Dive into the excitement—track the birds, observe their behaviors, and discover their favorite spots. Early mornings are perfect for spotting warblers, while raptors soar as the day heats up. Seagulls and shorebirds are ever-present, and you might catch tanagers and bullfinches at their most active.
Make your birding count—submit & share your data!
Participating is easy with the essential tool, eBird, where you should record all the birds you see (and even hear) on Saturday 14th October via the eBird website or mobile app. If you’re in the Caribbean, be sure to choose the eBird Caribbean portal in your eBird app settings on mobile. If you do not already have one, it’s easy to sign up for a free eBird account—here’s a quick guide on how to use eBird.
Birders should aim to spot as many birds as they can from midnight to midnight in their local time zone on October 12; or bird anytime during the weekend of October 11-13 for the Global Bird Weekend. The handy mobile app allows you to keep and submit lists while you’re still out birding, perhaps exploring nearby hotspots. It will even track how far you have walked while watching birds. Remember to submit eBird checklists before October 15, 2024 to be included in the initial results announcement!
Make connections: Birdwatching can be a peaceful solo activity, like a serene stroll through the forest punctuated by bird sightings. But it’s also a fantastic social experience, and there’s so much to learn from fellow birders. They can help with spotting and identifying birds. Connect with your local environmental or birding club—there’s a good chance someone is organizing a birding event for October Big Day on your island, and they’d be thrilled to have you join in!
Don’t wing it: Make a to-pack list and use a backpack. Remember to pack your field guide, stylish and functional BC buff, medicine, water, and food too! If you’re birding in an unfamiliar place, make a trip plan. Be sure to consider where you might park your car, the amount of time you plan to spend birdwatching, how far you want to walk, and tell your friends and family about your plans and where you will be.
Embrace being a beginner birder: If you’re a newbie don’t let anxiety keep you from discovering the wonderful world of birds. Birding groups love it when new members join their flock; they will share their scopes and field guides and work with you to identify the birds you see. They’ll even help you navigate the eBird app and submit your very first eBird checklist!
Find your flock! Birding in a group can be rewarding and fun. (Photo by Edward Hernandez Lara)
Show off your bird sightings and let us in on the birding blast!
Don’t forget to share your birding stories and photos with us on social media. Follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram @birdscaribbean and tag us in your posts. If social media isn’t your thing, join our discussion group with over 950 members to share your October Big Day experiences.
May we remind you that BirdsCaribbean membership has so many benefits; you will receive discounts on our products, workshops, and conferences; meet and network with fellow birders, scientists, educators and conservationists across the region; and keep in touch with birding trends and news through our monthly newsletters (free sign-up here). Join us today to help protect Caribbean birds and their habitats!
Let’s make October Big Day 2024 unforgettable. Have a blast, remember to stay hydrated, and tag @BirdsCaribbean in all your birding adventures. We can’t wait to see the incredible migratory birds that have arrived in the Caribbean!
Jennifer Wheeler weaves through the buzzing crowd at the Dominican Fiesta Hotel’s Convention Centre, raises the BC conch shell to her lips, and blows with all her might. The booming sound of the conch fills the air, instantly silencing conversations and commanding everyone’s attention. This spirited signal marks the official start of the BirdsCaribbean 24th International Conference—five exhilarating days of non-stop science, birding, and forging lasting conservation connections! Here we dive into the standout moments that made the conference truly unforgettable.
The BirdsCaribbean conch shell. (Photo by Martin Rodriguez)
Conservation thrives on the strength of community. This belief in the power of community is why every two years, BirdsCaribbean joins forces with our partners to host our International Conference—a transformative event where collaboration and learning drive real, impactful change. Conservationists from all walks of life come together on a beautiful Caribbean island, united by a shared passion: protecting the incredible birds that define our region.
This year’s conference, held at the Dominican Fiesta Hotel in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, in partnership with local NGO Grupo Jaragua, invigorated this mission. Centered on the theme “From Mangroves to Mountains: Safeguarding Our Avian Treasures,” the conference brought together a diverse group of conservationists—including representatives from international and regional higher education institutions, research centers, government agencies, NGOs, the ecotourism industry, and the media. The event provided the platform for delegates to share their knowledge, ideas, science, and resources—strengthening the conservation community and re-energizing the fight to save our precious Caribbean birds.
Spanning five exciting days, the conference featured expert-led presentations, roundtable discussions, training sessions, networking opportunities, fundraising initiatives, and birding trips to observe Hispaniola’s diverse bird species, including its unique endemics.
United for Birds: A Community-Driven Mission
The conference began on July 18th with opening remarks by Sixto J. Incháustegui, President of Grupo Jaragua, who emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to protect nature and wildlife. “Participation must come from all sectors of society to conserve biodiversity,” he stated.Frederico Franco, Vice Minister of Protected Areas at the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, echoed this sentiment, stressing the need to work together to ensure a sustainable environment for our birds. He highlighted the significance of conferences like the BirdsCaribbean, noting that “they play a crucial role in sharing scientific knowledge and promoting sustainability as a national culture.”
Sixto J. Incháustegui, President of Grupo Jaragua. (Photo by Martin Rodriguez)
Frederico Franco, Vice Minister of Protected Areas at the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources
BirdsCaribbean President Adrianne Tossas and Executive Director Lisa Sorenson warmly welcomed the record-breaking 338 delegates from 32 countries and islands. “I am elated to see so many young people here,” Sorenson remarked, “Your interest in birds and environmental stewardship bodes well for the long-term conservation of our biodiversity, which is vital to our health and well-being.”
Keynotes that Ignite: Wisdom, Vision, and Passion for Birds
Each morning, delegates gathered to hear phenomenal keynote speakersshowcase the diversity of thought, culture, knowledge, and work within our community. On the first day, Dr. Yolanda León, a Dominican biologist and immediate past president of Grupo Jaragua, emphasized the importance of effective conservation action for birds and habitats. She honored Simón Guerrero, a beloved member of BirdsCaribbean and Dominican conservation stalwart who passed away earlier this year, by posing the question he always asked: “Does the species know?” She underscored the significance of ensuring species know we are working to protect them and their habitats, as reflected in populations thriving in healthy ecosystems.
Dr. Yolanda León, a Dominican biologist and immediate past president of Grupo Jaragua, addresses the delegates during the opening ceremony.
Yolanda answers the question “Does the species know?” during her talk.
David Lindo, also known as The Urban Birder, captivated the audience with his keynote address “Conservation at Your Doorstep.” He inspired delegates with his passion for learning about birds in urban spaces and his dedication to encouraging city dwellers to connect with their environment. His speech was a captivating blend of humor, insight, and inspiration, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees.
David Lindo, also known as The Urban Birder.
Delegates listening to David’s inspirational talk.
Chris Rimmer shared insights from 30 years of research in his talk “Bicknell’s Thrush: Conserving a Vulnerable Songbird in the Caribbean and Across the Hemisphere”. He outlined the necessary conservation actions to safeguard this migratory songbird in the Dominican Republic and Greater Antilles. Dr Steve Latta, in his talk “The Synergies of Advancing Conservation: Using Field Research and Avian Monitoring to Build Capacity and Conservation Awareness” emphasized that conservation research should also facilitate field training and capacity building, raise awareness, and demonstrate the interdependence of healthy communities and healthy ecosystems.
Chris Rimmer, Emeritus Executive Director of Vermont Center for Ecostudies, speaks to delegates about conservation priorities for the Bicknell’s Thrush.
Dr Steve Latta speaks to the crowd of delegates about creating nurturing relationships, and advancing conservation through training opportunities and awareness raising campaigns.
Other keynote presentations reinforced delegates’ belief in their ability to achieve their own bird conservation goals and become successful conservation leaders. Award-winning Antiguan conservationist Shanna Challenger delivered an inspiring, instructive talk “From Passion to Purpose: The Journey of a Caribbean Wildlife Conservationist.” She shared how the knowledge and skills acquired from various projects, trainings, partnerships, and mentorships transformed her approach to conservation and helped her to achieve remarkable successes, including the restoration of Redonda through the Rewilding Redonda project.
Shanna Challenger retelling the hard work it took for her team to restore Redonda Island.
Eric Carey reflected on his 20-year tenure as Executive Director of the Bahamas National Trust, during which he significantly expanded the organization from a 10-person staff to 90, and developed a 32-park system covering 2.2 million acres, a substantial increase from the initial handful of national parks. In his presentation, “20 Years Protecting Habitat and Species through the Stewardship of Conservation Opportunities in The Bahamas—Success Stories and Lessons Learned,” Carey highlighted the challenges and triumphs of conservation in The Bahamas, and how he and his team overcame obstacles to protect habitats and wildlife while gaining the support of local Bahamians.
Keynote speaker Eric Carey. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Finally, Dr. Terry Root addressed the pressing issue of climate change in her presentation, “Climate Change Impacts in the Caribbean.”Shedetailed the sobering realities of the ecological consequences for birds and emphasized the role of science in developing effective mitigation policies. Dr. Root concluded with a hopeful message, urging attendees to come together, take action, and pressure governments to shift the societal approach to combating climate change, much like the successful campaigns to reduce smoking.
Dr Terry Root addresses climate change and discusses the social marketing approach needed to combat it.
A good conference day starts with birdwatching
Each day of the conference, many of our delegates were up before dawn, eager to connect with nature and discover the incredible birdlife at the Jardín Botánico Nacional (Dr. Rafael María Moscoso Botanic Garden). Guided walks through the 400-acre nature preserve were led by members of Grupo Jaragua and Grupo Acción Ecológica. The Garden, known for its extensive variety of native trees, palm species, over 300 types of orchids, and diverse bird species, provided an ideal setting for these early morning explorations.
Group of early morning birding delegates at the National Botanical Garden in Santo Domingo. (Photo by Stefan Gleissberg)
Birders in action! (Photo by Bryan Naqqi Manco)
During the 2-3 hour walks, delegates explored wooded areas, stream-side habitats, and open palm savannas, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities, including the chance to spot endemic species. Participants were thrilled to observe endemic “lifers” like the Vervain Hummingbird, Broad-billed Tody, Hispaniolan Woodpecker, Black-crowned Palm-Tanager, and Yellow-faced Grassquit, all commonly found in the garden. Some were also fortunate enough to spot elusive species like the Limpkin, as well as threatened birds such as the West Indian Whistling-Duck and Hispaniolan Parakeet. Observing these birds in the tranquil garden setting was a refreshing way to start the day before diving into the conference’s stimulating presentations and discussions!
Water lilies at the garden. (Photo by Aaliyah Cunningham)
West Indian Whistling-Duck. (Photo by Rondell Smith)
The national bird of the Dominican Republic, the Palmchat. (Photo by Rondel Smith).
Collaborative Learning and Dialogue for Conservation Success
338 delegates from 31 countries gathered for workshops, presentations, discussions and to connect with fellow Caribbean conservationists.
Workshops
This year’s conference featured a wide range of workshops tailored to the diverse bird conservation and research needs of our delegates. In the “Adaptive Project Management using Conservation Standards” workshop, participants enhanced their project management and implementation skills. The “Introduction to Data Analysis using R” workshop provided essential training on cleaning and analyzing data effectively for publications and reports. “Motus in the Caribbean” focused on the regional use of the Motus wildlife tracking system, offering critical guidance on designing, installing, and maintaining functional and robust Motus receiver stations, as well as planning collaborative projects. Additionally, “Navigating Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in Ornithology” addressed the cultural differences across Caribbean islands and emphasized the importance of ensuring that all stakeholders feel respected, accepted, and recognized for their contributions to bird conservation.
Jody Daniel (Gaea Conservation Network) explains to participants how to code and analyse their data using R.
Participants discuss threats and solutions among themselves during the Adaptive Management breakout sessions.
Todd Alleger speaks about the utility of Motus tracking stations in the Caribbean.
Participants engaged in interactive learning activities led by Marta Curti and Gabriela Diaz, utilizing “Environmental Education Guide: Raptors of the Caribbean” from The Peregrine Fund. These activities aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of the vital role of raptors in their ecosystems while enhancing their ability to educate others about birds of prey using the guide’s materials and strategies. Mark Yokoyama and Jennifer Yerkes of Les Fruits de Mer led a creative workshop titled “Make Your Own Coloring Activity Book,” which received high praise from participants for its innovative approach to teaching children about the natural world.
Dominican delegates with their raptor made with recyclable materials.
Jennifer Yerkes (Les Fruits de Mer) shares how the workbook ‘Booktastic’ will be used as an ideation and planning tool during the workshop.
Damany Calder reads the guidelines given in the ‘Booktastic’ workbook.
Mark Yokoyama (Les Fruits de Mer) shares insightful tips for creating engaging educational materials.
The “Connecting Birds and People: Environmental Interpretation as a Key Tool in Bird Conservation and Appreciation,” workshop highlighted the importance of interpretation in fostering bird conservation awareness among the general public. In “How to Publish Your Research and Conservation Reports with the Journal of Caribbean Ornithology,” participants received valuable insights into effective publication practices.
The workshop “Protect Insects, Protect Birds: Educational Tools to Celebrate WMBD,” presented by Environment for the Americas, addressed the current threats facing migratory birds and insects and the actions needed to slow their decline. Participants also learned how to organize and execute a successful bird festival. Finally, “Conservation Photography for Biologists, Artists, and Stakeholders” presented by Jerry Bauer, USFS International Programs, equipped attendees with skills to enhance their visual communication and inspire conservation action.
During the conference, we took the opportunity to assess BirdsCaribbean’s capacity-building initiatives and identify future priorities. Participants were asked to provide feedback via an online survey on how resources, training, equipment, and grants from BirdsCaribbean have helped them achieve their conservation goals. The conference also featured a collaborative session where participants worked together to create a comprehensive theory of change, or results tree. This involved identifying necessary intermediate results, specific actions, and SMART indicators to measure the impact of those actions. The group then reviewed and validated the problem tree and engaged in a hands-on activity to further develop the results tree by identifying specific actions, indicators, and implementers.
Christel Mohammed, BirdsCaribbean Communications Manager, and workshop facilitator, Jim Goetz.
Participants break into groups for the problem identification exercise.
Jethro van’t Hul shares the problems he faces as a conservationist working in the Caribbean.
Shanna Challenger adds a problem to her group’s results tree.
Problem tree being analysed and turned into a results tree by participants.
Group of participants discussing capacity building opportunities in the Caribbean.
Symposia
As is customary at each BirdsCaribbean conference, local ornithological work was highlighted during the first symposium, ‘Hispaniola Day.’ Rosanna Guzmán-Pérez from the Ministerio de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales shared findings from her study on plant-frugivore mutualism in the Casabito cloud forest at the Ebano Verde Scientific Reserve, identifying the Hispaniolan Spindalis as one of the main seed dispersers in the forest. Pedro Genero Rodríguez from the Asociación Dominicana Fotógrafos de la Naturaleza discussed the critical role of Reserva Privada el Zorzal as a refuge for both rare migratory birds with specific habitat requirements and common bird species.
Pedro Genero Rodriguez, Dominican photographer, speaks to delegates about the use of wildlife photography in conservation.
Male Hispaniolan Spindalis feeding on berries. (Photo by Jose Miguel Pantaleon)
Andrea Thomen answers a question from a delegate on the domestic parrot trade in the Dominican Republic, during the Hispaniola Day symposium.
Hispaniolan Parrot eating. (Photo by Dax Roman)
Anne-Isabelle Bonifassi, Executive Director of Haiti National Trust, speaks about ecosystem restoration in Haiti, during the Hispaniola Day symposium.
Jennifer Wheeler presented “Mountain Top Strongholds: The Story of Haiti’s Black-capped Petrel” on behalf of Haitian researchers who could not attend. Delegates were deeply moved by a short film, The Diablotin Festival, which tells the heartwarming story of how the community of Boukan Chat, alongside a team of conservationists, humanitarians, and storytellers, has united to protect the endangered Black-capped Petrel.
Other pivotal symposia addressed key issues in Caribbean bird conservation. “Conserving Caribbean Threatened and Endemic Birds” focused on the impacts of natural threats like hurricanes and the illegal bird trade on island endemics and discussed strategies for protecting the region’s unique avifauna. “Ecology of Migrants and Importance of Stopover Sites in the Caribbean” highlighted crucial research on migratory patterns of Near Threatened species like the Kirtland’s Warbler, and the role of stopover habitats which are often targeted for development on islands.
The “Waterbirds, Wetlands, and CWC” symposium examined the interconnections between waterbirds and wetland ecosystems, the severe threats they face, and the outreach, advocacy, and actions needed to protect these critical habitats. “On the Ground Bird and Habitat Conservation: New Approaches, Success Stories and Lessons Learned” shared practical conservation methods and outcomes aimed at strengthening the management of green spaces including protected areas and urban parks like botanical gardens in the Caribbean for birds and other wildlife.
Simon Busutill shares the triumphs and challenges of protecting a nature reserve in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Grenada Dove. With fewer than 190 individuals left in the wild, we must act NOW to secure its survival. (Photo by Greg Homel)
Lourdes Mugica, co-author of the field guide “Birds of the National Botanical Garden of Cuba.”
Caribbean conservationists are also leading social transformation through art, social media, and environmental education to gain support for protecting our feathered friends. In the symposium “Outreach and Education: Raising Awareness and Engaging Diverse Audiences,” they shared what strategies have been successful (and what hasn’t) in involving local communities and stakeholders in bird conservation efforts.
Discussions on “Habitat Restoration and Best Management Practices” provided insights into effective restoration techniques, while talks from “Landbird and Endemic Monitoring– Challenges, Solutions, Needs, and Results” addressed various monitoring methods, results from current projects, and the emerging issues and challenges encountered at different stages of a monitoring project.
Miguel Landestoy shares the findings from his study on the distribution of the Bay-breasted Cuckoo in the Dominican Republic.
Bay-breasted Cuckoo. (Photo by Carlos Pedro, Macaulay Library- ML393609811)
Dr Mark Hulme, reports on the behaviour of the range restricted Trinidad Piping-Guan and pressures affecting the population.
The large turkey-like Trinidad Piping-Guan is only found in Trinidad’s mountainous Northern Range. (Photo by Wendell SJ Reyes (ML66246621))
Demonica Brown, of The Bahamas National Trust, explains how bird monitoring is carried out at the Lucayan National Park.
Mangroves at Lucayan National Park. (photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Claudia Mantilla shares the findings from her Oriente Warbler research in Cuba.
Oriente Warbler. (Photo by Ian Burgess, Macaulay Library- ML558957951)
Finally, the symposia “From Mountains to Mangroves…and the Sea: Challenges and Opportunities for Caribbean Seabird Conservation, Research, and Monitoring” and “Invasive Alien Species From Mangroves to Mountains” tackled the multifaceted challenges of seabird conservation across the region, especially those faced by researchers and citizen scientists during the 2023-24 Caribbean Seabird Census, and the impact of invasive species on Caribbean bird populations and ecosystems.
The abstracts for the BirdsCaribbean 24th International Conference can be viewed by session here.
Roundtables
The Caribbean Motus Collaboration’s “Let’s Talk Motus!” roundtable brought together Motus leaders from across the Caribbean and beyond to discuss their experiences using and managing Motus as a whole, from building and maintaining receiver stations, to deploying transmitter tags on birds, all with the goal of advancing partners’ Motus efforts and facilitating potential collaborations.
Maya Wilson, BC’s Landbird Monitoring Program Manager, provides an update on new Motus stations in the Caribbean.
Motus audience listens attentiviely.
“Advancing Bird Conservation and the 30×30 Initiative through new Caribbean subnational Protected Areas” introduced the Conserva Aves initiative to the Caribbean bird conservation and ornithological communities. Delegates discussed the potential, opportunities, challenges, and geographic priorities for the implementation of a Caribbean-wide initiative that would preserve essential habitat for birds and biodiversity over the next 5-6 years by catalyzing local leadership in the creation and sustainable management of new local protected areas. Teams worked together to develop recommendations for the expansion of the Conserva Aves initiative to the unique context of the Caribbean.
Sebastion Herzog leads a discussion on advancing bird conservation and the 30×30 initiative through new subnational protected areas in the Caribbean.
The Caribbean Bird Banding Program’s roundtable discussion explored “Landbird Monitoring in the Caribbean”. Participants discussed ideas to continue developing the Caribbean Bird Banding Network by investigating the needs of bird banders in the Caribbean.
Working Group Meetings
Caribbean Parrots
The BirdsCaribbean Parrots Working Group meeting was attended by 10 members from the Dominican Republic, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Trinidad and Tobago. Andrea Thomen chaired the meeting. Members reached a consensus that more effort should be directed towards fostering collaboration and sharing information among parrot biologists in the region. Additionally, members requested the creation of an online library for parrot research papers, technical reports, articles, and books.
Bird Educators Working Group
Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival Coordinators Aliya Hosein and Eduardo Llegus, along with World Migratory Bird Coordinators Laura Baboolal and Miguel Matta, presented our bird educators with a fantastic set of CEBF and WMBD branded materials for their bird conservation outreach activities. The materials included t-shirts, bookmarks, buttons, bird masks, bird bands, and stickers. The stickers feature the artwork of Arnaldo Toledo and Anna Rose, showcasing a variety of Caribbean birds, including endemics, residents, waterbirds, shorebirds, migrants, and the seven selected migratory species for WMBD 2024.
Miguel, Aliya, Laura, and Eduardo with CEBF and WMBD materials for Caribbean coordinators and educators.
Organizations and educators were honored for their exceptional efforts in celebrating CEBF and WMBD over the past two years, consistently organizing creative and enjoyable activities for youth and local communities, and submitting their reports and photos.
We asked our delegates to Sing Like A Bird!
Our delegates have dedicated countless hours to studying our beloved Caribbean birds. They’ve uncovered critical nesting and feeding sites, as well as behaviors that enable these incredible birds to survive and thrive in the wild. But wait, can they sing like a bird? Hit play on the videos below to find out! It’s going to be amazing!
Exquisite artwork, rare first-edition books signed by the authors, heirloom-quality jewelry, premium Caribbean chocolates and rum, apparel that allows you to wear your love for nature and birds, and so much more, the Silent Auction always draws in a lively crowd at our conferences. Mix these irresistible auction items with highly competitive personalities and you’ve got a recipe for fundraising success!
Ancilleno explaining the rules of the auction.
A delegate places her bid during the coffee break.
Auctioneers Ancilleno and Andrew stirred the crowd into a bidding frenzy!
Caribbean ornithological books for auction.
A massive thank you to our generous delegates who donated handmade auction items from their home countries, and to our enthusiastic bidders who helped us raise US$4,700 for Caribbean bird conservation.
“It’s about this big.” Delegates browse the selection of items for auction.
“Hmm, how do I out-bid my competition?”
Stunning bird inspired jewelry were hotly contested at the aution!
Delegates try to decide which items they should place bids for.
A huge round of applause goes to Jennifer Wheeler, Linda Fuller and Natasha Atkins, for organizing the auction and all the volunteers who worked tirelessly to collect, categorize, and display the items, as well as our auctioneers Andrew Dobson and Dr Ancilleno Davis for keeping up the excitement and energy. Their hard work made this event a huge success, and we couldn’t be more grateful!
In search of Hispaniola’s beautiful birds
From mangroves to mountains, birding adventures were not in short supply in the Dominican Republic. Delegates explored vast mountain landscapes, enchanted forests, calm rivers, lagoons, and even rolling sand dunes, all in search of the country’s phenomenal endemic birds. Conference field trips to Sierra de Bahoruco, Reserva Privada Zorzal, Los Haitises and Cotubanamá, Ebano Verde Scientific Reserve, Cayo Arena, Punta Cana and Cordillera Central were led by local tour companies: Explora Ecotours, La Cua Birding Tours, Ova Trails, and independent guide Holly Garrod.
Ebano Verde Scientific Reserve.
Delegates birding at Ebano Verde.
A Hispaniolan Trogon perched quietly at Ebano Verde.
Andrew Dobson takes a photo of the Hispaniolan Trogon.
Some of our delegates are eagerly working on blogs about their incredible conference field trips. Stay tuned for their firsthand experiences!
Acknowledgements
We extend our sincerest gratitude to everyone who contributed to the overwhelming success of this conference! Working alongside our co-host and local partner, Grupo Jaragua, was a true pleasure. We must express our deepest appreciation to all the conference sponsors and donors, including The Rufford Foundation, Audubon, US Forest Service, Teleuniverso, American Bird Conservancy, Banco Popular, Caribbean Biodiversity Fund, Fondo Nacional para el Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (Fondo MARENA) Dominican Republic, Naturalist Journeys, Vermont Center for Ecostudies, Mass Audubon, Cúa Conservation Agency, Vortex Optics, Rare Species Conservatory Foundation, and the FUPAROCA Foundation. Your generous support was instrumental in making this conference a resounding success!
We are truly thankful to everyone who provided funding and donated to help us provide travel scholarships to 93 Caribbean wildlife professionals and students, including those who participated in and donated to our 2024 Global Big Day fundraising event in May.
The conference provided an invaluable platform for Caribbean conservationists to connect with and learn from a diverse array of international and regional professionals, thereby enhancing their professional visibility and honing their skills. The exchange of ideas and perspectives has equipped them with fresh insights and innovative strategies to drive bird conservation efforts in the Caribbean.
We also thank American naturalist and painter Alex Warnick for making her stunning artwork available for us to use for the conference. Her gorgeous work adorned our conference t-shirt and buff, and was used across our merch and promotional material.
Special shoutout to our delegates who volunteered with conference related activities like taking photos, assisting with sales at the merch table, and being rapporteurs. A special thank you goes to Egido Sanz, Juan Carlos (JC) Hernández Ordoñez and Mario Merrero. We appreciate your willingness to give your time and talents!
Mario takes a break from conference tasks to have his photo taken in front of the wingspan banner.
JC helps a delegate from St Vincent and the Grenadines with registration at the conference.
Egido helped with many conference tasks, and here she is helping delegates register for the conference.
We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved in collaboration with our sponsors, donors, and delegates and eagerly anticipate the next conference!
Relive the fun moments through the #BirdsCaribDR24 Photo Gallery
This year, we went paperless for the conference program and used the Whova app!
Alieny and Matthew at the cocktail reception.
Howard gave us his best smile, while Ellie an Stefan continue chatting.
Alondra next to her poster on the use of social media to raise bird conservation awareness.
Dominican dancers in traditional dress at the opening reception.
Arnaldo and Lillian at the BC Merch table.
Audience at the Caribbean Birding Trail symposium
The Diablotín Team. (Photo by Yolanda Leon)
Caribbean Birding Trail symposium speakers: Dave, Holly, David, Ivan, and Manny, with Lisa.
Chocolate and honey for sale at the conference.
JC at the BC Merch table.
Laughs over cocktails at the opening reception.
Chit chat during the coffee break.
Damany and Jeanelle with their Spirit Mountain coffee.
Daniela, Maya, Todd, and Saul at the poster session.
Daveka and Giselle selling t-shirts at the BC Merch table.
Ellie and Sue at the opening reception.
Traditional Dominican dancers at the opening reception.
Geronimo and Elvin at the poster session.
Hand-knitted Black-capped Petrel chick by Jennifer Wheeler.
Hispaniolan birds in a row.
More honey for sale at the conference.
Birdlife Jamaica representatives having fun with our selfie board and Hispaniolan Parrot prop.
Laura and Todd enjoying the local Dominican music at the opening reception.
Joshua and Steve at the opening reception.
Kah Kow chocolates on display at the conference.
Lisa Sorenson with some of our Caribbean delegates.
Mark wins the bid! (Photo by Daniela Ventura)
Matthew at the poster session.
Puerto Rico en la casa! (Photo by Christina Rodriguez)
PROALAS Girls at the closing gala. (Photo by Gail Woon)
Shanna and Devon catching up during the coffee break.
First time BC Conference attendee Soraya proudly stands next to her poster.
A coffee lover’s dream come true!
St Martin and Anguilla delegates at the opening reception.
Representatives of the Trinidad and Tobago Bird Observatory at the poster session.
For more memorable moments captured at the conference, by our delegates, check out our photo album on Google Photos!
Caribbean birders, it’s time to get “buggy” with it for World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) 2024!
Celebrated this fall on October 12th (or anytime during the ongoing fall migration from August through October) WMBD is a special time of year when birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts across the Caribbean eagerly welcome migratory birds to their winter retreats. Our gardens, forests, wetlands, and coastlines serve as vital “all-inclusive” havens, providing essential food and shelter for these incredible travelers.
Similarly, our neighbors in Central and South America join in the celebration as they too welcome back plump warblers, wading shorebirds, agile raptors, and other migrants. WMBD unites people across the Americas in a shared commitment to securing a bright and sustainable future for these marvelous migrants.
The WMBD 2024 theme “Protect Insects Protect Birds” is particularly timely as insects are declining worldwide due to pesticides, habitat loss, and other threats. Insects are crucial food sources for many migratory birds, providing the energy they need for their long journeys. This theme is especially relevant to the Caribbean, where our warm tropical climate supports thriving insect populations—a hearty buffet for which migratory birds make epic journeys covering thousands of miles, every year! This October, we’re urging Caribbean islanders to trade in pesticides for binoculars and join the global initiative to raise awareness about the threats to both birds and insects. By taking simple actions, like those suggested below, we can help protect these vital species.
For the Americas, the WMBD 2024 theme is presented in English, Spanish and French:
Bugs for Birds… and People
Insects are essential sources of energy for many migratory bird species during their long journeys. The success of these migrations often depends on the timing, as birds rely on peak insect abundance at stopover locations to replenish their energy reserves before continuing their travels.
Worm-eating Warbler with a caterpillar in its beak. (Photo by Bryan Calk ML54410741)
A Common Nighthawk chases its insect prey in flight! (Photo by Brad Imhoff ML367282621)
Insects are an important protein source for growing birds too. A female Common Yellowthroat feeds its offspring. (Photo by Dawn Gunderson ML621947269)
Insects play a crucial role in ecosystems that directly benefit people. They pollinate crops, helping to produce a significant portion of the world’s food supply. Insects also contribute to natural pest control by preying on harmful species, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Additionally, they help decompose organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil, which supports healthy plant growth. Without insects, our agriculture, food security, and overall ecosystem health would be severely impacted.
However, insects face significant threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, and light pollution, among others. The decline in insect populations not only impacts ecosystems but also leads to a scarcity of this vital energy-rich food source for migratory birds, resulting in weakened immune systems, reduced reproductive success, and increased mortality rates for both adult birds and their offspring.
Your backyard is a lifeline for insects
Protect insects and help birds by taking these actions:
Plant native flowers, trees, and shrubs in your gardens
Support organic farming or start your own pesticide-free kitchen garden
Preserve natural habitats
Leave leaf litter! It provides a crucial ecosystem for insects
Educate your friends and family about the importance of insects
You are cordially invited to celebrate birds, explore nature, and reverse insect decline
Our amazing community of Caribbean educators and WMBD coordinators are busy preparing exciting events, including birdwatching trips, habitat clean-ups, all-day festivals, art competitions, presentations in schools, webinars, and so much more, all aimed at raising awareness of the importance of insects to birds and people. Get in touch with your local environmental groups to find out where and when the festivities will be held, and make plans to attend with friends and family.
WMBD pins, stickers, bracelets, and more were distributed at Conservation Opportunity’s event. (Photo by Conservation Opportunity)
A volunteer ensures no trash is left behind. (Photo by Conservation Opportunity)
‘Job well done!’ Conservation Opportunity members and volunteers after the amazing cleanup effort.(Photo by Alexia Morales))
We invite all who are interested to join our educator flock! As you join the WMBD campaign, you may request WMBD educational materials by contacting Laura Baboolal, the WMBD Caribbean coordinator at lbaboolal@environmentamericas.org.
If you are planning a WMBD event or two (and we hope you are!), you will find free digital resources in English, Spanish, and French on the World Migratory Bird Day Trello board.
BirdsCaribbean will also be featuring WMBD bird species that occur in the Caribbean on our Migratory Bird of the Day webpages (Birds Connect Our World). Our drawings this fall are featuring the art of Arnaldo Toledo—Cuban ornithologist, photographer, and scientific illustrator extraordinaire!
As in past years, we will provide free downloadable resources, including coloring pages, natural history information, puzzles, photos, videos and activity sheets—we invite you to check it out!
We also encourage you to add your events to the interactive map, so we can see where WMBD activities are taking place throughout the Caribbean: https://www.worldmigratorybirdday.org/events-map
Add your event to the WMBD Events Map and let the world know how you will be celebrating in the Caribbean!
Meet Your 2024 Migratory Bird and Insect Ambassadors!
Every year, EFTA selects species as WMBD ambassadors. The seven focal species this year highlight the diversity of migratory birds and their dependence on healthy insect populations and thriving habitats:
Cliff Swallow Petrochelidon pyrronota*
Cliff Swallows eat insect all year round, foraging during the day in pairs or flocks of up to 1000 birds. (Photo by Brad Imhoff ML338869051)
Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus*
Male Bobolink in breeding plumage. (Photo by Ryan Sanderson, Macaulay Library-ML342377131)
Nacunda Nighthawk Chordeiles nacunda
Semipalmated Sandpiper Calidris pusilla*
Semipalmated Sandpiper in Jamaica. (Photo by Ann Haynes Sutton)
Broad-tailed Hummingbird Selasphorus platycercus
American Kestrel Falco sparverius*
The American Kestrel is a more frequently seen migrant to the region. (Photo by Imran Ashraf)
Wood Duck Aix sponsa*
The male Wood Duck is one of the most colorful waterfowls in North America. (Photo by Brad Imhoff)
At least five of these species, marked with an asterisk, occur in the Caribbean, though they are not all common. The region is critical for these traveling birds as they move to, from, across, and through our islands.
This year, insects are also in the spotlight as focal species:
Vivid Dancer Argia vivida
A male Vivid Dancer (blue morph) on a pitcher plant. (Photo by Judy Gallagher)
Willow Sawfly Nematus corylus
Giant Cicada Quesada gigas
Giant Cicada. (Photo by Juan Cruzado)
Buzzer Midge Chironomus plumosus
Mayfly Cinygmula ramaleyi
Red-legged Grasshopper Melanoplus femurrubrum
Giant Water Scavenger Beetle Hydrophilus triangularis
Giant Black Scavenger Beetle. (Photo by Robert Webster)
First WMBD Photo Contest!
Join us for the first-ever World Migratory Bird Day Photography Contest, presented by Environment for the Americas. This year’s theme, “Protect Insects, Protect Birds,” highlights the important relationship between birds and insects. Our competition focuses on the role insects play in order to sustain migratory birds on their journeys. Win cash prizes and Vortex binoculars! Deadline is September 30th 2024.
Anna Rose, a talented artist from Columbus, Ohio, is the Featured Artist for World Migratory Bird Day 2024! With a deep connection to wildlife, Anna has received the Susan K. Black Foundation Scholarship three times, was named ‘Student Artist of the Year’ by the American Birding Association, and won first place in the Junior Duck Stamp Contest hosted by the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service. She pursued graduate studies at Ohio State University, focusing on the nesting ecology of warblers and thrushes, blending her enthusiasm for art and science. Anna’s artwork will be used throughout the Caribbean in this year’s WMBD events.
Birders, brace yourselves for some exciting news! Jennifer Valiulis, Executive Director of the St. Croix Environmental Association (SEA), made an incredible discovery at St. Croix’s Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge in St Croix, US Virgin Islands. She spotted a White Tern—only the second recorded sighting of this species in the West Indies!
A Serendipitous Discovery
On Sunday August 11th, Jennifer set out for a routine sea turtle track patrol along the southwest shore of St. Croix. She had just wrapped up a morning bird survey when something unusual caught her attention. Hovering above her dog, a completely white bird floated gracefully, following them along the beach. The bird’s shape suggested that it could be a tern, but this behavior was unlike anything Jennifer had seen before, especially compared to the Least Terns commonly found in the area—which typically fly with quick wingbeats and dive aggressively to defend their nests and chicks.
White Tern spotted by Jen Valiulis at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge (photo by Jennifer Valiulis)
The White Tern following Jennifer along the southwest shore of St Croix at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge (photo by Jennifer Valiulis)
Note the completely white body and head and black bill (photo by Jennifer Valiulis)
“I first assumed it was a Least Tern,” Jennifer recalls. “But as I looked closer, I realized the markings weren’t right.” The Least Tern is small, with a grayish back, yellow bill, white forehead, and black cap. This bird however was larger, entirely white, and had large striking black eyes. Jen’s keen observation skills and a bit of luck led her to take several photos with her phone, capturing this unique moment before she continued her turtle patrol.
White Tern in Hawaii. It’s a medium-sized tern with entirely white plumage, a slightly forked tail, and glittering inky pools for eyes. The bill is black with a blue base. (photo by Cameron Rutt ML2863700)1
The White Tern is graceful and buoyant in flight. It sometimes flies very high in pairs or trios. (photo of White Tern in Wake Island in the Pacific Ocean, by Eric VanderWerf ML42169701).
Piecing Together the Mystery
Once home, Jennifer struggled to match her photos with any local bird species. Eventually, she shared her images in a U.S. Virgin Islands birding group chat, where her fellow birders, including BirdsCaribbean’s Executive Director and ornithologist, Lisa Sorenson, began to weigh in. After some research, Lisa suspected it was a White Tern, a bird typically found in the Pacific Ocean, especially around Hawaii and around several islands in the south Atlantic.
A White Tern chick on Midway Island. White Terns have been recorded breeding in trees and both natural and artificial ledges on coral islands. (photo by Caroline Pott)
Caroline Pott, a former St. Croix resident now working as a Wildlife Biologist on Midway Island in the Pacific, confirmed the identification. “I live with White Terns—they’re everywhere here—on my windowsill, in the trees like Christmas decorations, on my shed roof,” Caroline said. “That is most definitely what it is. They love to follow, floating as you describe, like the birds in Cinderella.”
A Rare Visitor in a Safe Haven
This sighting marks only the second time a White Tern has been recorded in the West Indies, with the first being in San Salvador, The Bahamas, in June 2010. Jennifer’s discovery is a testament to the importance of wildlife refuges like Sandy Point, which provide a sanctuary for lost and exhausted birds that have strayed far from their normal habitats.
Jennifer reflected on the significance of refuges like Sandy Point, noting, “It’s a safe place for them to rest and refuel so they can hopefully find their way back to where they would normally be found. Although we have not seen anything quite so unusual at Sandy Point before, it is not uncommon to see tired, hungry birds that have strayed from their migratory routes.”
How did the White Tern end up in St Croix?
The White Tern (Gygis alba) is typically found in tropical and subtropical regions, with its normal range spanning the Pacific and Indian Oceans, including Hawaii, where it is commonly known as the “Fairy Tern,” and a handful of islands in the South Atlantic. The sighting in the US Virgin Islands is extraordinary because the species rarely strays to the North Atlantic.
eBird range map for the White Tern clearly depicting its abundance in the Pacific Ocean.
Seabird expert Rhiannon Austin, who studies seabirds in the Turks and Caicos Islands, commented, “This individual bird could have been blown off course during a storm or strong winds, a phenomenon known as “vagrancy,” where birds end up far outside their usual range.” She also explained that changes in weather patterns, possibly linked to climate change, can disrupt traditional migratory routes, movements, and food availability. These shifts can force birds to stray from their typical habitats as they search for suitable conditions. This makes the sighting both exciting and a poignant reminder of the broader environmental changes impacting wildlife globally.
The White Tern nests on islands throughout tropical and subtropical oceans of the world. In the Hawaiian Archipelago, it is a common breeder in northwestern refuge islands, with a small population also on O’ahu Island. (photo by Tony Palliser ML63353901)
A Message to Fellow Birders
Jennifer’s experience serves as a reminder to all birders: trust your instincts and always document unusual sightings. “Even if it isn’t something very rare, the observation is still valuable,” she advises. She also emphasizes the importance of slowing down and taking in the natural world, rather than just focusing on data collection. “Once in a while, those cool anomalies turn out to be something really unusual and exciting—like a White Tern on St. Croix!”
This incredible sighting has not only thrilled the birding community but also highlights the critical role of conservation areas in protecting wildlife, even those far from home. Keep your eyes peeled—you never know when you might spot something truly extraordinary!
Jen Valiusus doing a waterbird count in St Croix. (photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Editor’s Note: Jennifer returned to Sandy Point to try and spot the White Tern again, but with no luck. With Tropical Storm Ernesto bearing down on the US Virgin Islands, she had to shift her focus to hurricane preparedness. She and her fellow birding enthusiasts will continue to search for the White Tern, an exciting opportunity to add an extremely rare bird to their life lists. However, the recent storm may have carried the bird off to another island. West Indies birders: keep your eyes peeled for an all-white tern with a pointed black beak!
We’re excited to announce our 2024 Raffle, where you can win fantastic prizes while supporting crucial bird conservation efforts in the Caribbean! Thanks to our incredible partners, this year’s raffle is bigger and better, with proceeds directly funding scientific research and empowering Caribbean wildlife professionals. Together, we can make a lasting impact on both the birds and the communities that share their habitats.
Click on the flyer to purchase your tickets now!
But wait, we haven’t even mentioned the amazing prizes you could win! Are you ready to find out if you could be our next lucky winner? This is your chance to make a difference and score some incredible rewards – it’s a win-win!
Grand Prize: Vortex Razor HD 8X42 Binoculars
That’s right—we have TWO grand prizes! Birdwatchers will love the Vortex Razor HD 8×42 Binoculars, a premium-quality, award-winning binocular packed with everything you need for field observation. It is rugged, waterproof, compact, and its HD optical system “delivers the sharpest images possible.” With so many amazing features you may think this binocular is hefty. It is not. It is actually one of the lightest full-size binoculars on the market! In addition, the binocular comes with Vortex’s incredible unlimited, unconditional, life-time VIP Warranty!
Vortex Razor HD 8X42 Binocular side view.
Vortex Razor HD 8X42 Binocular front view.
Second Grand Prize: “Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo”Painting
“Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo” painting by acclaimed Cuban Artist Arnaldo Toledo.
Our Grand Prize is an exquisite original painting titled “Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo” by award-winning Cuban scientific illustrator Arnaldo Toledo. One of Puerto Rico’s beloved endemics, this lanky, lizard-munching cuckoo is known for its distinctive “ka-ka-ka-ka” call, which has earned it the local name Pájaro Bobo Mayor (“big ape bird”). Another local name is Pájaro de Lluvia or Pájaro de Agua (“rain bird”), because its call is believed to forecast the rain! This stunning 38.5 x 28 cm watercolor painting on Stonehenge Aqua paper was part of a special collection commissioned for the 2022 American Ornithological Society and BirdsCaribbean joint conference, featuring all 17 Puerto Rican endemic birds.
In an interview, Arnaldo shared his process for creating this collection with us. “I carefully researched each species and made an extensive study of reference material. This was essential for rendering each individual in a way that shows the beauty and life of the bird, as well as precisely draw and paint its field marks and diagnostic details. The pose and attitude of each bird is drawn to set the flow and balance of the composition, while at the same time showing all the splendor of these Puerto Rico endemics.”
The Raffle drawing will take place on Sunday, September 8th, 2024 at 10 PM EDT.
Tickets are $5 each, or you can get five for $20. The more tickets you buy, the better your chances of winning!
Click here to purchase tickets online, or send a check made out to “BirdsCaribbean,” put “Raffle” in memo, and mail to:
BirdsCaribbean,
841 Worcester St. #130
Natick, MA 01760
For questions, contact Lisa Sorenson at Lisa.Sorenson@BirdsCaribbean.org. Remember to get your tickets by Sunday, Sept 8th at 10pm LATEST.
It only takes one to win, but you can’t win without one! Good luck!
Proceeds from the raffle support our conservation, research, and education programs, as well as scholarships for Caribbean conservationists to attend our workshops and conferences.
A huge thank you to our generous donors for providing awesome prizes for the Raffle: Arnaldo Toledo, Vortex Optics, and Nils Navarro, and thank you to all those supporting our 2024 Raffle!
Whether you’re passionate about landscapes, birds, or wildlife in general—our photo contest is your chance to gain recognition and inspire others to protect Caribbean biodiversity. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to win incredible prizes. See below for more details.
BirdsCaribbean is excited to announce our 5th Digital Photography Contest at the BC Conference in the Dominican Republic—we invite you to participate!
BirdsCaribbean se complace en anunciar que celebraremos nuestro 5º Concurso Anual de Fotografía Digital en la Conferencia de República Dominicana – ¡Te invitamos a participar!
BirdsCaribbean est heureux d’annoncer son cinquième Concours Annuel de Photographie Numérique à la conférence BC en République dominicaine et vous invite à y participer !
The Vortex Viper HD spotting scope is a high-end scope with incredible optical performance bringing even the finest distant details in for a closer look. It is built to withstand rugged terrain and harsh weather.
Adjusting a spotting scope for participants during a Bird Guide Training workshop in Turks and Caicos. (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
Students learn to use binoculars and a spotting scope to look at birds at Hope Gardens, Jamaica.(photo by Natural History Museum of Jamaica)
Participants learned about spotting scope set up and management – especially when dealing with the needs of a large group!
In addition to the Grand Prize, the following prizes will be awarded in each category:
First Place: $100 Amazon Gift card
Second Place: $50 Amazon Gift card
Third Place: $25 Amazon Gift card
Photos must be taken during the time of the conference, including the pre- and post-conference field trips and workshops, in the Dominican Republic between the 15th and 25th of July 2024. Photos can be submitted online starting July 16. (See the full contest rules and submission details below)
The deadline for submitting entries is 11:59 pm EDT on Sunday, August 25th, 2024.
Winners will be announced by Thursday September 12th, 2024.
The BirdsCaribbean 2024 Photography Contest is open to ALLphotographers (aged 18 and over), except board members of BirdsCaribbean and the judges of this contest and their immediate families. The contest is open to all participants of the conference regardless of residence or citizenship, so long as the laws of their jurisdiction allow participation. Review the rules for entering below.
Contest Categories
Our Conference Photography Competition is all about showcasing the beauty of Caribbean birds, ecosystems, and people. That’s why we have included a variety of submission categories that provide a wide range of opportunities to capture rare endemic species and vibrant habitats. We are also excited to see passionate individuals dedicated to preserving our unique biodiversity. Our ultimate goal is to find compelling digital photos that embody our 2024 theme, From Mountains to Mangroves: Safeguarding Our Avian Treasures.
Here are the photo contest categories that you can enter:
“THE ENDEMICS”: Hispaniolan and regional (West Indies) endemic birds found in the Dominican Republic
“FUN WITH BIRDS AND PEOPLE”: Fun with birds, nature, and human interaction* (including photographs of people during conference activities, people experiencing and enjoying nature)
“BIRDS AND NATURE”: Natural habitats and landscapes in the Dominican Republic, including close-up photography, and birds that are not endemic to Hispaniola
Please do not include photographs of pets or domestic animals, nor images of captive animals.
*If you choose to include people in your submission, you are responsible for obtaining the necessary (verbal) releases from the individuals depicted. Entrants must not submit images that involve human nudity, or the willful harassment of wildlife.
All photos must be submitted via the photo-sharing site Flickr. Here’s how:
Log on: To submit your photos via Flickr, use your Yahoo! ID, Google, or Facebook account to login to http://www.flickr.com. If you do not have an account, you can sign-up for FREE.
Join the BirdsCaribbean Flickr group: go to the home page for the group and click the button that says “+ Join Group”
Upload your images: Click “Upload” in the top near the search bar and upload your entries.
VERY IMPORTANT – Tag your photos: Browse to the image you wish to submit for the contest and add tags (there is a tags section below the image in the right column). Please add the following tags: BCPhotoContest2024, and the category you are entering (Endemics, FunwithBirdsandPeople OR BirdsandNature), so each photo should have two tags total. Type the tags exactly as you see them here (or copy and paste). Please include your name, the location where the photo was taken, and the subject or title of the photo. Adding a descriptive caption in the title or comments about your photo is also helpful also!
Submit the image: Use the “Send to Group” function above the image to add your photograph to the BirdsCaribbean group.
The deadline for submitting entries is 11:59 pm EDT on Sunday August 25th, 2024.
You can check to see that your photos are uploaded and properly tagged by making sure they are there when you type in the overall contest tag BCPhotoContest2024 in the search bar at the upper right. Check that they are in the proper category by typing in two tags for each category, for example:
BCPhotoContest2024 Endemics
BCPhotoContest2024 FunwithBirdsandPeople
BCPhotoContest2024 BirdsandNature
Rules, Eligibility, and Judging:
This competition is open to all registered participants (full time and part time) of the conference.
All submissions must have been taken during the time of the conference, including the pre- and post-conference field trips and travel between 15th and 25th July, 2024 inclusive.
To ensure eligibility for the contest all entries must have a resolution of 2MB or greater.
Color, black & white, and edited formats are accepted.
SIX entries are allowed per participant for EACH CATEGORY, thus you can submit as many as 18 photos total.
The welfare of the bird always takes priority. Please keep your distance and do not disturb birds!
No audio playback.
No flash or other artificial lights may be used.
Any still photography method is acceptable, including digiscoping, SLR, point-and-shoot, mobile phone, etc.
BirdsCaribbean reserves the right to adjust any deadline(s) as the result of causes beyond its immediate control.
Winning Photos and Prizes
First, second, and third prize winners will be selected in each category and there will be one grand prize winner. Photos will be judged on originality, technical excellence, composition, overall impact, and artistic merit. All decisions made by the judges are final.
The judges are a selected panel of birders, photographers and scientists. Winning photos will be featured online on the BirdsCaribbean website, social media and Flickr site.
Read the Fine Print—Rules, Terms, and Legal Conditions
By entering, participants agree to indemnify BIRDSCARIBBEAN and its representatives, from any and all third party liability for any injuries, loss, claim, action, demand or damage of any kind arising from or in connection with the competition .
Each entrant in the Contest is responsible for ensuring that he or she has the right to submit the photos that he or she submits to the Contest per these rules.
BIRDSCARIBBEAN is not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information.
BIRDSCARIBBEAN assumes no responsibility for any error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, of entries.
If, for any reason, the photo competition is not capable of completion as planned, BIRDSCARIBBEAN reserves the right at its sole discretion to cancel, terminate, modify, or suspend the photo competition.
By entering, participants agree for BIRDSCARIBBEAN to use all submitted images for their purpose online and in printed matter. The participants do retain the ownership of the photos submitted, and when used, all photographs will be credited to the photographer.
Questions and inquiries about contest rules or issues with submitting your photos can be emailed to Lisa Sorenson: Lisa.Sorenson@BirdsCaribbean.org. You must read the following rules, terms, and legal conditions before submitting any photos!
Your photographs help BirdsCaribbean raise awareness of how important it is to protect the Caribbean’s amazing diversity of wildlife, plants and habitats. Thank you for helping to further our mission through your photography.
We wish you the best of luck and look forward to seeing the best of Caribbean nature photography!
A look back at past winners
2022 Grand Prize Winner – Red-legged Thrush by Edward Hernández-Lara
Back in May 2019, BirdsCaribbean joined other guests to celebrate the opening of the lovely office of Sustainable Grenadines (SusGren), perched on the edge of Ashton Lagoon on Union Island in the Grenadines. It was a joyful occasion—the result of 13 years of planning and sheer hard work which transformed an old, abandoned, and failed marina development into a beautiful place for local residents to enjoy—as well as the birds and other wildlife nestling in its restored mangroves and lagoon waters. Read more here. On July 1, 2024, this brilliantly successful project was dealt a catastrophic blow by the major Hurricane Beryl, sweeping away the SusGren office building and most of Ashton Lagoon’s infrastructure, and causing widespread devastation.
Here SusGren’s Executive Director Orisha Joseph talks about her devotion to the project and her determination to “build back stronger.”
Sustainable Grenadines office was completely destroyed when Hurricane Beryl passed through Union Island on July 1, 2024. (Photo by Orisha Joseph)
If you would like to assist, please donate at the link below, and help Ashton Lagoon, Union Island and its residents—both human and animal—get back on their feet! Your generosity will be greatly appreciated.
I first visited Union Island as a young reporter in 2009, on a trip to the world famous Tobago Cays Marine Park. Instantly, I fell in love with this small beautiful island. Soon after, I was introduced to the non-governmental organization Sustainable Grenadines Inc (SusGren).
Who knew that this introduction would lead me to migrate from Grenada to Union Island in 2012, where I began work as Administrative Officer with this amazing organization!
At SusGren, I used my communications skills to further reach audiences across the Transboundary Grenadines, in the region and further afield, sharing the impactful work we do in conservation, sustainable livelihoods, youth engagement and policy development.
Orisha Joseph speaking at the opening ceremony for the successfully restored Ashton Lagoon.
Fast forward to 2024. As Executive Director of SusGren, looking back at our journey, I wouldn’t change a thing—no regrets, at all!
However, on July 1st, 2024, Hurricane Beryl “changed everything.”
In 2019 we completed restoration work in the largest mangrove ecosystem on Union Island: the “Ashton Lagoon Restoration Project”. It was one of our flagship projects, to rehabilitate a failed marina area, which had caused significant ecological and socio-economic impacts with both long-term and short-term consequences for Union Island.
Twin suspension bridges over breached gaps in failed marina causeway in the Ashton Lagoon. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc.)
Birdwatching tower in Ashton Lagoon. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc.)
Ashton Lagoon trail. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc.)
Our achievements after restoration saw the construction of a two-storey office space and welcome centre, twin bridges at Ashton Lagoon to provide access—which became the main attraction on Union Island—restoration of red mangroves, construction of wildlife viewing towers, trails and interpretive signage, and a swale system for water exchange in the mangrove forest.
Sadly, since Hurricane Beryl visited us on that fateful day, we have lost everything.
Ashton Lagoon trail destroyed by Hurricane Beryl, the earliest hurricane to reach Category 5 intensity. (Photo by Orisha Joseph)
I was with one of my team members, her partner, my landlord, and 10-year-old grandson. As Hurricane Beryl displayed her strength, hurled broken glass at us, and lifted our roof, we held a mattress in front of us for protection. As the roof began to cave in, we realized we were not safe and needed to get to another house on the property.
Once I thought it was “safe,” I ran across the yard to the next house, then called for the others to do the same. We made it! We were alive! We are all together!
We stayed there until Hurricane Beryl decided she had done enough, and it was calm enough to go outside. I looked around in total shock, I could not believe this was the second time I am experiencing a devastating hurricane—my first being Hurricane Ivan, which destroyed Grenada in 2004. I cried….
Hurricane Beryl damaged or destroyed more than 90% of homes on Union Island. (Photo by Orisha Joseph)
My mind went to my two other team members. Were they OK? Were their families OK? Was the office OK? Was the bridge OK? What about other infrastructure? My heart sank as I started to walk through the island, witnessing the utter devastation, people with bewildered looks on their faces, homes destroyed.
SusGren employee Kisha McFarlen and other residents of Union Island survey the damage around them. (Photo by Orisha Joseph)
Then it all sank in, as I got to the office. It was completely gone, except for the stairs and two walls on the first floor. The mangrove was littered with chairs, desks, filing cabinets, papers. Birds were just hanging around and fiddler crabs were trying to find shelter.
The charming SusGren office before it was destroyed by Hurricane Beryl. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc.)
Sustainable Grenadines office was completely destroyed when Hurricane Beryl passed through Union Island on July 1, 2024. (Photo by Orisha Joseph)
Ashton Lagoon mangrove littered with littered with chairs, desks, filing cabinets, papers. (Photo by Orisha Joseph)
Despite the devastation, there was an overwhelming sense of relief. We had survived. Hurricane Beryl tested our resilience and reminded us of the power of Mother Nature.
But more importantly, Hurricane Beryl showed us the strength of our community and the unyielding spirit of Union Island. In the face of such adversity, we discovered that together, we could weather any storm.
As we pick up the pieces from here, to build back better and stronger, we welcome your support! If you are able to help, please go to our fundraising page here. Any gift, no matter how small, will be gratefully received!
Exciting news! Our online Conference Merch Store for the upcoming BirdsCaribbean 24th International Conference is now OPEN! Order all your #BirdsCarib24DR merchandise online for pick-up in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, from 18 to 22 July 2024!
We’ve got a wonderful variety of items on sale to delight any bird or nature lover, including conference t-shirts, hats, buffs, and stickers. Our conference merch features stunning illustrations of Hispaniolan endemic birds by American naturalist and painter Alex Warnick. These aren’t just great souvenirs—they’re keepsakes that will remind you of your amazing time in the Dominican Republic for years to come. Plus, we have Birds of the Dominican Republic and Haiti field guides on sale—and two of the authors will be on-site to sign your copies!
New buff on the block! This must-have gear ensures UPF50 sun protection and features gorgeous illustrations of Hispaniola’s finest birds.
We’ve got the perfect hat for all your outdoor adventures! Beautifully illustrated with Hispaniola’s stunning endemic birds!
The new edition of the Field Guide to the Birds of the Dominican Republic and Haiti is the perfect companion to all your DR birding adventures—grab a copy in our e-shop.
Waterproof stickers showcasing 15 of Hispaniola’s endemic birds. Ideal for sprucing up laptops, water bottles, luggage, and so much more.
Our Caribbean birds ID cards are waterproof and UV coated making colors and shapes more rich and in-depth. These are perfect for field conditions and for educational events.
These items and more will make unique gifts for your family and friends. And the best part? Your order will directly support our work to help Caribbean birds and people thrive. Check out all the offerings at our e-shop: bit.ly/BCDR24-Merch
Important: All merchandise items purchased on this site must be collected during the conference at the Dominican Fiesta Hotel. We cannot ship items to anyone.
If you can’t attend the conference, you can arrange with a friend or colleague attending the conference to pick up your items for you.
The excitement doesn’t end online! Attendees can also stop by our merch table at the Dominican Fiesta Hotel for a retail therapy break in between sessions to purchase something beautiful and fun that will help them remember the conference. But hurry, quantities are limited, so be sure to shop early to get your desired styles, sizes, and amounts.
The BC conference will take place in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic from 18 to 22 July 2024. The theme is “From Mangroves to Mountains–Safeguarding Our Avian Treasures” Find out more about our exciting workshops, round-table discussions, field trips, and networking opportunities on the website and register at this link: bit.ly/BC24DR
The Ridgway’s Hawk is one of the most critically endangered raptors in the world and is endemic to Hispaniola. (Photo by Dax Román)
An estimated 90% of the Bicknell’s Thrush population overwinters in Hispaniola’s dense, humid broadleaf forests. (Photo by BirdsCaribbean)
A Pearly-eyed Thrasher in the Dominican Republic. (Photo by Tony Pe)
Hispaniolan Mango (female) feeding on hibiscus in the Dominican Republic. (Photo by Neil Hilton)
The Hispaniolan Trogon (called Papagayo in the Dominican Republic and Caleçon Rouge in Haiti), is one of only two trogon species found within the Caribbean (the other being the sister species, the Cuban Trogon). (Photo by Dax Roman)
Baiguate River, Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic.
Our conservation impact is stronger when we work together. We can’t wait to see you in Santo Domingo!
Acknowledgments: A huge thank you to Alex Warnick for making this amazing artwork available for us to use for the conference! Get ready for an incredible experience!
Global Big Day 2024 was an electrifying celebration of birding, fundraising, and phenomenal photography! We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who participated and shared their incredible photos with us. We are thrilled to announce the winners of our annual Global Big Day Photography Awards. This year’s photos beautifully capture the splendor of Caribbean birds and the unifying spirit of our community.
If you missed our Global Big Day 2024 report—click hereto catch up on the teams’ performances and find out who the new reigning champ is!
When great people, birds, and art converge, extraordinary achievements are within reach! A massive thank you to everyone, especially our exceptional team leaders and generous donors, for propelling Global Big Day 2024 to unparalleled success. With a record-breaking 29 teams participating, we soared past our $25,000 fundraising goal to support Caribbean nationals attending our 24th International Conference this July—absolutely amazing! We’re stretching our ambitions and raising our goal to $30,000 to support as many dedicated Caribbean conservationists as possible! If you’d like to contribute to these travel scholarships, please visit: https://givebutter.com/BCGBD2024
Photography Award Winners 2024
We especially congratulate this year’s First Place Best Bird Photo winner, Northern Mockingbird by Jose Alberto (Cuba).
The Second Place Best Bird Photo goes to Rufescent Tiger-Heron by Jerome Foster (Trinidad and Tobago).
The Third Place Best Bird Photo goes to White-cheeked Pintail by Rondel Smith (British Virgin Islands).
The photos we received were outstanding and we couldn’t not share more stunning photos from the competition. Along with the winning photos, the judges selected the three honorable mentions below.
Puerto Rican Tody. (Photo by Edgardo-Cruz)
Semipalmated Plover, St Lucy, Barbados. (Photo by Julian Moore)
Snowy Plover, Anegada, BVI. (Photo by Rondel Smith)
Photographers from almost every team and corner of the world are recognized for their stunning photos in the following categories.
Best Endemic Bird
There were teams named after warblers, ducks, and even cuckoos. The Trinidad and Tobago team decided to mix it up a bit by adding a guan. But not just any guan—one that is endemic to the island and quite restricted in its range, the Trinidad Piping-Guan, locally known as the “Pawi.” Josh Bajnath, a member of the reigning GBD 2024 team—the Piping Pawis—submitted this photo of the Pawi and secured another victory for his team. We imagine that the moment Josh snapped this photo and exquisitely captured the rare and elusive Pawi must have felt like magic—his stunning shot certainly looks like it!
Trinidad Piping-Guan, locally known as the “Pawi”, Bajnath’s Estate, Trinidad. (Photo by Josh Bajnath)
Best Camouflage
Rondel Smith, a member of the BVI Birders team, didn’t just come to play; he came to hide, and he did so well, ultimately helping him to capture some amazing shots of birdlife in the British Virgin Islands.
Rondel Smith decked out in camo gear for GBD 2024.
A well hidden Killdeer. (Photo by Ancilleno Davis)Red Knots resting on Playa del Chivo, Havana, Cuba. (Photo by Samuel Núñez)
When Watchers Become the Watched
Sometimes you do the bird watching, other times you’re being watched!
Click the arrows to scroll through the images.
Youngest Global Big Day-er 2024
We love to see when young people connect with the incredible bird communities in their home countries and we hope to see more young naturalists participating in next year’s GBD! Perhaps, we should add a ‘Junior Birderwatchers’ team to the competition next year?!
Marjel Morales Jr., member of Club de Observacion de Aves Holguin, in Mayabe, Cuba.
The Calming Effect
Science suggests that viewing pictures of nature and seascapes can induce relaxation. Take a look at the photos below and let us know if the science holds true.
St. James Farm. (Photo by Steve Constantelos)Freshwater Lake, Dominica. (Photo by Derzan Peltier)
Sublime Silhouettes
Silhouettes are a beautiful way to play with light and add variety and drama to your photos.
Double-crested Cormorants, Tommy Thompson Park, Canada. (Photo by Nicole Gutierrez)
Worst Camouflage
This bird needs to figure out if it wants to be seen or not!
Killdeer, The Bahamas. (Photo by Ancilleno Davis)
Spectacular Shorebirds
Spotting these great travelers might be easy, but getting great photos of shorebirds is a real challenge! However the following photographers have captured their beauty almost effortlessly!
Killdeer, Bayamón, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Edward-Hernández Lara)Least Semipalmated and White-rumped Sandpipers, Playa del Chivo, Havana, Cuba. (Photo by Samuel Núñez)
Maritime Masterpiece
While some of our teams birded by land, other birders took to the seas and left the shore behind—far behind! Backyard birds, forest birds, waterbirds, and even seabirds were all accounted for during the Global Big Day count in the Caribbean. We certainly have the most dedicated and thorough community of birders!
South Polar Skua off the coast of Guadeloupe. (Photo by Frantz Delcroix)
Photographer spotlight: Jose Alberto
Cuban photographer and our First Place Best Bird Photo winner Jose Alberto knows how to perfectly frame a moment, an especially impressive feat when dealing with erratic and challenging subjects—birds! Our judges were awed by Jose’s keen eye for “the little things”—the subtlest movements, changes in posture, and the way light gracefully illuminates the colorful feathers of the birds. Enjoy more of his photos below.
Click the arrows to scroll through the images.
Best Selfie
We couldn’t just choose one! See who you can spot.
Members of Flying Pintails birding in the Chicago suburbs. (Photo by Steve Costantelos)
Grand Bahama Island Birders team. (Photo by Charmaine Francis)
Members of Havana’s Bird Watchers Club, Cuba. (Photo by Samuel Núñez)
Members of Havana’s Bird Watchers Club at Playa del Chivo, Cuba. (Photo by Samuel Núñez)
Marjel Morales and Marjel Morales Jr.. members of Club de Observacion de Aves Holguin, in Mayabe, Cuba.
Noelia Nieves Colón and José Colón López birding in Puerto Rico.
Cuban photographer-Samuel Núñez getting a photo of a Stilt Sandpiper.
A member of Team Gundlach, in Santiago de Cuba. (Photo by Alexander Coronado Torné)
Members of Imperial Seekers in Dominica stop to take a selfie before beginning their GBD count. (Photo by Jeanelle Brisbane)
LGBT team members en route to count birds on La Désirade, Guadeloupe. (Photo by Anthony Levesque)
Members of The Palmchatters taking a break from birding in the Dominican Republic.
Members of Wadadli Warblers in Antigua got in on the early birding action for GBD 2024. Photo by Shanna Challenger
One Love Jamaica Birders team leader Justin with his team at Hope Botanical Gardens, Jamaica. (Photo by Justin Saunders)
Subgroup of the Whistling Warblers taking a break from birding at the Botanical Gardens in Kingstown St Vincent. (Photo by Glenroy Gaymes)
A young member of the Piping Pawis team birdwatching in Brasso Seco, Trinidad for Global Big Day. (Photo by Giselle Ragoonanan)
A subgroup of the Gundlach Team in Cuba ready to dominate the competition on the morning of GBD 2024.
Members of Gundlach Team in matching birding kit. (Photo by Yaro Rodriguez)
Members of The Palmchatters. (Photo by Andrea Thomen)
Our President, Adrianne Tossas, in her favorite birding spot in Puerto Rico.
Members of President’s Perch birding in Bermuda. (Photo by Andrew Dobson)
Flying Pintails leaders Mike and Lisa Sorenson birding in Boston. (Photo by Mike Sorenson)
Our eBird guru Jeff Gerbracht.
Xavier Ragbir birding in Trinidad.
ENJOY THIS GALLERY OF BIRD AND SCENERY PHOTOS TAKEN ON GLOBAL BIG DAY BY VARIOUS TEAM MEMBERS IN THE CARIBBEAN, US, AND MORE!
Ruddy Turnstone, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Dimaris Colón Molina)
Tundra Swan landing, Corey Marsh, Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Jamie Jacob and Dave Ewert)
Adrianne’s favorite birding spot in Puerto Rico.
Cattle Egret, Anegada, BVI. (Photo by Rondel Smith)
White-beared Manakin, Trinidad. (Photo by Jerome Foster)
Horse Back Ridge, Kalinago Territory, Dominica. (Photo by Derzan Peltier)
Black-bellied Plover, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Maria Irizarry González)
Kalinago Territory, Dominica. (Photo by Derzan Peltier)
Streak-headed Woodcreeper, Trinidad. (Photo by Jerome Foster)
Female Hooded Merganser with chicks, Huntley Meadows, Virginia. (Photo by Ducky Nguyen)
Montana, USA. (Photo by Holly Garrod)
Yellow-faced Grassquit building a nest, Holguin-Cuba. (Photo by Marjel Morales)
Trumpeter-Swan, Tommy Thompson Park, Canada. (Photo by Nicole Gutierrez)
Eastern Meadowlark, Santiago de Cuba, Cuba. (Photo by Alexander Coronado Torné)
Loubiere, Dominica. (Photo by Derzan Peltier)
Long-tailed Hawk, Havana, Cuba. (Photo by Jesús Molina and Alejendro Sautié)
Semipalmated Plover feeding with peeps, Fosters, St. Lucy, Barbados. (Photo by Julian Moore)
Hagerman NWR underwater, Texas. (Photo by John Thomlinson)
Burrowing Owl nest, Grand Bahama Island, The Bahamas. (Photo by Charmaine Francis)
Black-necked Stilt, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Noelia Nieves-Colón)
Pinnated Bittern, Trinidad. (Photo by Jerome Foster)
Juvenile Little Blue Heron, McKinnons Pond, Antigua. (Photo by Nick Hollands)
Kalinago Barana Aute, Dominica. (Photo by Derzan Peltier)
A rare spring visitor to Barbados- a White-rumped Sandpiper. (Photo by Julian Moore)
Roseate Tern, Bonaire. (Photo by Steve Schnoll)
Northern Lights, Montana. (Photo by Holly Garrod)
American Oystercatcher, Cataño, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Edward Hernández Lara)
Common Gallinule chick, Trinidad. (Photo by Jerome Foster)
Cuban Tody, Holguín, Cuba. (Photo by Freddy Cobas Agilera)
Greater Roadrunner, Hagerman NWR, Texas. (Photo by John Thomlinson)
Puerto Rican Woodpecker. (Photo by Noelia Nieves Colón)
Grasshopper Sparrow, Bonaire. (Photo by Steve Schnoll)
Gray Kingbird feeding, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Edgardo Cruz)
Green Heron, Arecibo, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Edward Hernández Lara)
Caribbean Martin, Layou, Dominica. (Photo by Garry Auguiste)
Short-billed Dowitcher, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Noelia Nieves Colón)
Purple Gallinule, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Noelia Nieves Colón)
Mangrove Warbler, Cuba. (Photo by Jesus Molina and Alejendro Sautié)
Scotts Head, Dominica. (Photo by Derzan Peltier)
Caribbean Elaenia in nest, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Noelia Nieves Colón)
Black-necked Stilts, Holguín, Cuba. (Photo by Freddy Cobas Agilera)
Loggerhead Kingbird, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Edgardo Cruz)
Tundra Swan, Corey Marsh, Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Jamie Jacob and Dave Ewert)
Bahama Woodstar, male. The Bahama Woodstar can only be found on the Turks and Caicos Islands and The Bahamas! (Photo by Keith Salveson)
In 2023, Martha Cartwright of Grand Bahama Island Birding (GBIB, a local birding club) accepted the challenge of restarting Grand Bahama’s famous “Introduction to Birding” classes—the brainchild of the legendary Erika Gates. Erika’s Beginner Birding course had been a fixture of Bahamian birding for decades and had ushered many a new birder into the flock. In this blog, Martha shares just how much brain-racking work involved in planning and running a successful birding course—and gives some tips on how others can take up the mantle and grow the community through their own courses!
Birding is awesome! The vibrant colors, entertaining behaviors, and unique songs and calls of birds provide us with the incentive to get outside and reconnect with nature. However, birding isn’t always an easy hobby! It can be challenging and unpredictable. Beginners often struggle with spotting and identifying birds, especially in poor lighting or when obstructed by leaves and branches. Additionally, learning to use equipment like binoculars can be frustrating. These challenges can make the hobby seem daunting at first, but with patience and practice, the rewards are well worth the effort.
Minutes of Grand Bahama Island Birding (GBIB) Annual Meeting, 31 March 2023:
Birding classes can provide the resources and community to help new birders get started. These courses can be highly rewarding to both instructors and participants. They are also a crucial part of GBIB’s remit and it was decided at the club’s annual meeting in 2023 that they should be revived. Members shared that “They (the classes) are important for recruitment (over half of them joined as a result), as a community service, and as a legacy to Erika.”
I agree to take the lead on this with the aim of running a course in November 2023.I cracked my egg-head skull for seven months because of that one small hold-your-hand-up moment volunteering for this job. In retrospect, despite said cracks-in-head, I’m glad I did. The actual teaching part was great fun—I love teaching. But as any teacher will tell you, hours and hours of planning and preparation are needed before that “fun” begins.
I thought this would be easy. Our beloved mentor, Erika Gates who passed away in December 2021 had taught the class for years. I figured I’d find her notes and teach from them. Unfortunately, Erika’s notes were nowhere to be found. The irony was not lost on me that I was practically the only local resident who, because of teaching yoga on Saturday, had not been able to attend Erika’s classes. However, Erika had generously taught me about birds and birding at her elbow, I had old student binders to review, and I had thousands of bird and habitat photos on file. I could do this.
Erika doing some lock-down birding on Global Big Day, May 2020.
Erika birding with a young participant during the Grand Bahama West Indian Whistling Duck & Wetlands Conservation Workshop, March 2007.
Martha Cartwright, Marilyn Laing & Erika at Garden of the Groves in 2018. (Photo by Linda Huber)
Erika received a Lifetime Achievement Award from BirdsCaribbean (Lisa Sorenson presenting) for her outstanding contributions to bird conservation, BirdsCaribbean Conference in Freeport, Grand Bahama, July 2011. (Photo by Bruce Purdy)
Erika at a Tainos Trail bird sign, a birding trail she created in Grand Bahama. (Photo by Linda Huber)
My hope is that by sharing our process for creating this class, your skull will have fewer cracks when you design your own program. Out of 10 students, nine gave us a 10/10 review. One student gave us a 9/10 review with a comment, “Maybe more classes so that it is not too jam-packed.” Tough criticism, that.
Did you notice? I’ve switched from writing as an “I” to a “we.” I may have put my name on the job, and I have put my name on this blog, but this has been a group effort! Delores Kellman, GBIB President, was with me every step of the way both in preparing for the class and as co-instructor. She too is an educator, and an organized and reliable one at that. She delivered on every commitment she made. She is the best—thank you, Delores.
Martha and Delores at Owl’s Hole. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Many other GBIB members generously helped with ideas and suggestions when asked—and I asked often. Thanks to Bridget Davis and Charmain Hall for leading the group out in the field. Thanks to Deana Williamson for donating classroom materials. Thanks to GBIB members who came to audit the class and assist if needed. Special thanks to another educator, Mark Milkovich, who critiqued the syllabus time and time again, and was instrumental in getting us to clearly define our objectives and then pack them into four half-day classes—classes which included time outside birding! Jam-packed indeed.
Antillean Nighthawk, Grand Bahama. (Photo by Steven Oxley)
Cape May Warbler male in Erika Gates’ garden, Grand Bahama. (Photo by Erika Gates)
Black-necked Stilt, Grand Bahama. (Photo by Steven Oxley)
Bahama Warbler (Photo by Larry Therrien)
It takes a village to raise a child—and it takes a flock to organize a birding class. It takes good sponsors too. Ed Gates’ Grand Bahama Nature Tours made a generous donation that we used to buy Vortex binoculars from BirdsCaribbean (BC) at a discounted price. We sold those as needed and our expenses were covered. Our second sponsor was, you guessed it, the fabulously supportive and generous BirdsCaribbean. BC shared their professional PowerPoint presentations. Their awesome Bird Sleuth program,available for download in English and Spanish here, also has many great ideas that can be tailored for adults. They provided Raffaele’s “Birds of the West Indies” field guides, which we sold to cover costs. They shipped down posters and gifts of buffs, hats, and tote bags. Little gifts always make for fun classes. Lisa encouraged and reviewed and suggested and encouraged some more. Thank you, Lisa; thank you, BirdsCaribbean! Our final sponsor was Garden of the Groves who donated the beautiful venue for the classes and gave entrance to students free of charge. Thanks to Ed Gates and Marilyn Laing for their support.
For four Saturdays in November, from 8:30am -12.00pm, we charged $20.00 for the course, accepting students from a minimum age of 16 years and older. Students were required to have the Raffaele field guide and a pair of binoculars. We had both available for purchase. We also provided loaner binoculars. Membership in GBIB was encouraged but not required. We distributed homework every week and reviewed it in class, but—no grades ever!
Course participants got hands-on training in Bird ID and using binoculars. (Photo by Triston Gibson)
The survey consensus was “more time out birding.” Our outings were rained out twice, I talked too much once (what, only once?). After that first class Delores and I put time constraints for teaching each concept. To have more time for birding would mean more classes, longer classes, or teaching fewer birding skills. Well? I suppose we could leave off the eBird section of the course, but there is so much information on eBird for continued learning—bar charts, range maps, hot spots, Birds of the World—there’s a lifetime of learning! Besides, I believe strongly in citizen science. Submit an eBird checklist—what a simple way to give back to the birds for the pleasure we receive when observing their intriguing lives! No, eBird stayed in the course.
Martha speaking about the variety of birds at Reef Golf Course, Freeport, The Bahamas. ( Photo by Tristan Gibson)
Martha helps a participant use eBird during the classroom session. (Photo by Tristan Gibson)
GBIB President, Delores Kellman, was also a course facilitator. (Photo by Triston Gibson)
Martha explaining the basics of birdwatching to participants. (Photo by Tristan Gibson)
Course facilitators teaching participants how to use the field guide to ID birds. (Photo by Tristan Gibson)
Below are our “10 Objectives” and our “To-Do List” from start to finish. I hope it helps and encourages you to develop your island’s Basic Birding Class. If you want a copy of the final version of our syllabus, please send me an email at marthainfreeport@icloud.com and I’ll be happy to share with you. This has been a totally rewarding experience, and we plan to make it an annual event. As you can see from the comments below, Erika was very much a part of our class, and we know she’d be proud to see her tradition carried on.
Here are some edited notes from Tristan Gibson’s article on the class. Photographs are by him as well. Our thanks to Tristan for covering the event in the local news.
For novice birder, Gemma Hudson, this class was a way to reconnect with Erika.
“I was working for her [at Kayak Nature Tours] from 2010. Even outside of work, she made an impact on me,” she said. Gemma jokingly added, “When I trained to be a tour guide, Erika would come along. She’d often ask, ‘Okay, what [bird] is that?’ Just to keep you on your toes.”
“I remember going out to Lucayan National Park for a kayaking tour where there were many shorebirds. One time she asked me if I knew what they were. I said, ‘baby birds,’ and she was like, ‘No, Gemma. We need to get it together,” she chuckled. Despite her position, Gemma admitted that this was her first formal birding class. “It was actually fun to finally understand the theory behind birding. And I guess it’s been rubbing off of me because I now have a son, and he wants to go birding too. He gets upset when I go without him.”
Mangroves at Lucayan National Park. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
As a long-time friend to Erika, Eugena Granger was happy to see the class being offered once more. “I’ve known Erika for many, many years—probably 40 or more at this point. She was the type of person who mastered what she took on. She did her best and just wanted you to reach your best.”
She continued, “This class is a tremendous tribute to her legacy. She was not only a birder; she was an environmentalist at heart. She used to walk on the beach, pick up distressed bees she noticed near the water, and take them to a dry spot. She was always one to promote protecting the environment and witnessing all it had to offer.”
Gemma and Eugena both noted that birding has become a competitive, yet relaxing activity that bolsters a supportive community they’ve grown to love. “The excitement of getting up in the morning to see what else you’ll find, comparing what you’ve found with others, it’s exhilarating,” Eugena enthused.
Delores Kellman noted that as interest in birding grows on the island, more classes will be offered in the future. “We are very blessed here in Grand Bahama. There are many birds to discover, including five Bahamian endemics that can be found on the island. Considering the 10,000 species of birds worldwide, how can you get bored of birding!” she exclaimed. “Erika was always concerned with making yourself better, becoming more knowledgeable, especially in this field. Birding was her gift we wanted to pass on.”
Goals and Objectives
By completing the course, student should be able to:
Properly use and care for binoculars and birding scopes.
Know birding etiquette (in group & alone.)
Know how to observe and describe a bird in the field: Size & shape, Color Pattern / Topography, Behavior, and Habitat. “Notice 3 things about a bird.”
Understand the organization of a field guide and the information contained in the Guide.
Know how to find a bird in the Guide. Have highlighted in the Guide the birds likely to be seen on Grand Bahama.
Know how to find when you’ll see a bird on the island (using field guide status and eBird bar charts.)
Know basic habitat classifications on GBI. Understand the importance of habitat to the bird, and how habitat affects behavior.
Know how to submit a bird record on eBird and eBird Mobile app. Understand the importance of eBird data for scientists and for maintaining your personal birding data / journal. Know how to navigate eBird for information.
Build a list of additional resources to continue learning after the course is completed.
Identify ways you can contribute to bird conservation in your yard, locally, nationally, and globally.
A Bahama Mockingbird with nesting material, spotted on Abaco, the Bahamas, during Global Big Day 2022. (Photo by Elijah Sands)
“To do” list for our home-grown class:
Determine course objectives and goals for class. Create a four-week syllabus.
Find sponsors to assist with costs, materials, and hand-outs.
Determine course requirements, dates & time, class size, age limits, location.
Update the Grand Bahama Island bird checklist for distribution.
Organize sign-up procedures. Create an e-mail group (or chat group) for class notices and updates. Have students create an eBird account before starting the class.
Advertise to the community.
Create PowerPoint and Keynote presentations for use during class.
Prepare materials for distribution and homework assignments.
Determine locations for weekly field trips and ask GBIB members to lead the outings.
Create a survey for end of class feedback and suggestions.
Have printed Certificates of Completion for distribution to “graduates.”
Group photo of course facilitators and participants. (Photo by Tristan Gibson)
This course came full circle for me. I started off as a student of Erika’s, barely able to identify birds on my own. And now, working with a network of dedicated bird conservationists, I have helped new birders to identify birds by sight and birdsong. They understand the importance of habitat not only as a place to live, but as a place birds need to survive and raise their young. Birding is a lifelong hobby that can provide you with many benefits if properly nurtured. So, if you’ve been telling yourself that you want to start birding—don’t wait. Start now.
Considering starting a beginners birding course on your island? (We hope you are!) We have loads of FREE educational resources that can help. Explore the links below, and feel free to reach out to us at info@birdscaribbean.org.
