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 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!
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.
Jen Valiulis, Executive Director, St. Croix Environmental Association (SEA) shares her recent experience hosting a BirdSleuth Caribbean Workshop in St Croix, US Virgin Islands, April 5 & 6, 2022. Follow along for a vicarious experience of the workshop, and see what the educators discovered and how they are putting what they learned to use!
Through workshops at BirdsCaribbean conferences, I had learned some BirdSleuth activities already and several of them have become staples in my Environmental Education Toolkit. Bird Bingo and the Habitat Scavenger Hunt are always favorites! I was excited to go through the full training, and even better, to be able to offer it to other educators on the island. As we transition back to in-person learning, but still have to deal with periodic COVID outbreaks, having so many activities that can be done outdoors is especially valuable to teachers. A dozen educators spent two days exploring the BirdSleuth Caribbean curriculum and re-envisioning their island as a birding hotspot.
Finding birds in a nearby forest. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Day One: Back to School!
Training aptly began on the 34-acre campus of the Good Hope Country Day School in Kingshill – a pleasant and spacious setting for some birding. We started with some Birding 101. We learned how to use binoculars and how to become more comfortable and confident as birders. Some participants soon realized that they knew more about birds than they thought; they were able to identify a surprising number of common species.
Lisa shares tips for using binoculars and finding birds with teachers. (Photo by Jennifer Fee)
Participants were introduced to bird basics and fantastic tools that could be used to identify and collect data on birds, such as eBird and Merlin. These are critical tools in the hands of “citizen scientists” and for crowd-sourced research. Whether you are an individual, in a classroom, or a community member, this can have impact well beyond a single activity or learning. The BirdSleuth Caribbean curriculum was unveiled as the training team used it directly with participants in lessons such as “What makes a bird a bird?” Teaching teams tried out the lesson plans and hands-on activities themselves – and had a great deal of fun becoming “students” for a while!
In the afternoon, participants went outside and practiced using their binoculars and identifying birds with the Bird Detective game – laminated birds hidden in the forest! “Sound Map” and “Tall to Tiny,” showed teachers how they could help students build their observation skills by being quiet and focusing on the sites and sounds around them.
Recording birds in the nearby forest. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Finding and identifying birds in the school grounds forest. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Finding and identifying birds on school grounds. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Finally, using senses other than the sense of sight, participants tried to identify the birds in their surroundings. This activity revealed several warblers singing in the canopy. The group also experienced the unique challenge and excitement of identifying warblers that just wouldn’t sit still! Our patience and teamwork paid off, however, and we identified themas a Northern Parula (uncommon on St. Croix) and an American Redstart. It was a satisfying end to the day!
Day Two: BirdSleuth Trainees At Large
On the second day we ventured out in the field, starting bright and early with a visit to the Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge. We all worked to hone our birding skills at the newly constructed bird blind (a structure that lets you watch birds without being seen) along the shores of the largest salt pond in the territory. Peering through the slots with binoculars raised, we identified a large flock of Black-bellied Plovers, Royal Terns, and Black-necked Stilts – a crowd favorite. Black-whiskered Vireos singing their monotonous song “sweet-john-chewit, sweet-john,” and Yellow Warblers singing “sweet-sweet-sweet-sweeter-than-sweet” were also identified and viewed. We then moved on to check out the avifauna on the beach, and test out some of the BirdSleuth activities, including Bird Bingo.
Participants identify waterbirds at Sandy Point bird blind. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Our next stop was the St. George Village Botanical Garden. This was a dramatic change of scenery and an opportunity to not only enjoy the resident birds but also many unusual and important plants that provide habitat for biodiversity. The Green-throated Carib and Antillean Crested Hummingbirds were the highlight at this stop.
Observation deck at Fredensborg Pond, Buddhoe Farms. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Our field day ended at Buddhoe Farms, an organic farm and the site of one of the largest freshwater ponds on the island—Fredensborg Pond, an ideal spot to test out all that we had learned over the last two days. We put our birding skills to work and identified the diversity of birds at the pond. This included Blue-winged Teal, White-cheeked Pintails, Pied-bill Grebes, Scaly-naped Pigeons, White-winged Doves, Common Gallinule, Snowy Egret, Great Egret, Cattle Egret, Red-tailed Hawk, Gray Kingbird, Barn Swallow and Bananaquits. Working together to register our sightings on the all-important eBird list, we fledgling citizenscientists capped it off with a round of the Bird Migration game, where birds (us humans!) tried to navigate the many challenging “obstacles” to arrive safely at their breeding grounds. It was great fun and a good cardio workout too!
Participants engage in the “Migration Obstacle Course” where they gain a deeper understanding of the daily challenges birds face during migration – such as collisions with glass buildings and the dangers of power lines, hunters, and hurricanes.
Bonus Day! Caribbean Waterbird Census Training
It was “BirdSleuth Plus”!
On the day following the BirdSleuth workshop, BirdsCaribbean Executive Director, Dr. Lisa Sorenson, led a one-day training on the Caribbean Waterbird Census (CWC). Practitioners from many agencies and organizations from all three of the major islands in the Virgin Islands improved their birding competencies through field observations and focused presentations on some of the more challenging species (those confusing sandpipers, for example!).
Classroom learning on the Caribbean Waterbird Census. (Photo by Jen Valiulis)
Birding for the Caribbean Waterbird Census (CWC). (Photo by Jen Valuilis)
This rare opportunity to bring together so many conservation professionals to focus specifically on birds sparked important conversations about conservation practices and concerns. We wanted to keep the conversation going, and maintain our excitement about birds after the workshop, so we created a Whatsapp Birders group! Here, we share our observations, identification questions, and anything else bird-related across the territory. So far, it has been exciting to share and comment on what everyone is seeing. The highlight for me, thus far, has been the observations of the pelagic birds that some members of our group see when they go fishing.
The importance of the CWC was emphasized by challenges we had in finding wetland sites for our workshop. A multi-year severe drought coupled with hurricane damage to wetland sites have meant that some of the local hotspots have been so altered that birds are few and far between. For example, Great Pond, formerly the best site for waterbirds on the island, and home of Hope” the Whimbrel for many years, has dried up due to drought and other issues and most of the mangroves are, sadly, now dead. CWC surveys have documented the decline in diversity and overall numbers at these sites and this data will be used to inform upcoming wetland restoration projects.
We need to reclaim our wetlands, for the birds!
BirdSleuth Springs Into Action!
BirdSleuth is not about sitting still. Since the workshop in April, we hit the ground running by engaging well over a hundred students in BirdSleuth activities. Students at the Claude O. Markoe school in Frederiksted were especially excited when they found an active nest in a tree on campus and promised to watch it for any developments. A sixth-grade teacher who attended the BirdSleuth training was inspired. She has used the activities to nurture a new-found enthusiasm for birds amongst her students, getting her class involved in creating a guide to the common birds on the school campus.
Jennifer Fee introduces the BirdSleuth Caribbean curriculum. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Many other educators have approached us about offering further training, so we are working to make that happen! We are on a BirdSleuth mission!
In the meantime, the BirdSleuth Caribbean curriculum and supporting materials are available for free download in English, Spanish and French. Click here to download.
Acknowledgements: This workshop was funded by a grant from the VI Department of Planning and Natural Resources to Horsley Witten Group. Many thanks to the Company House Hotel for providing discounted accommodations, the Good Hope Country Day School for providing the venue for the BirdSleuth training, the Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge for providing the venue for the CWC training, Buddhoe Farms for welcoming us to their property for birding, Brian Daley for logistical support, Workshop facilitators, Lisa Sorenson (BirdsCaribbean) and Jennifer Fee (Cornell Lab of Ornithology), and Lisa Yntema for assisting with the CWC training.
Testimonials
Participants shared their thoughts on the training and how the practical knowledge shared can be implemented in their respective classrooms.
Olivia Walton, Education Coordinator, St. Croix Environmental Association (SEA)
“I really enjoyed the BirdSleuth training. It gave me a chance to connect with a lot of local like-minded experts and opened up opportunities for collaboration. The flow of the activities and the type of activities created a great sense of bonding between all of the educators and this made it easier to form those connections. I really think that we will stay connected after this, which really has been a great opportunity.”
Maranda Wood, Secondary Science Teacher, Good Hope Country Day School, US Virgin Islands
“I really enjoyed the BirdSleuth activities because my school has 3 year olds all the way to 12th grade students, so my mind is going crazy with the number of things I can incorporate and share with my fellow teachers. The kids are going to love it! This training has been so wonderful and I can’t wait to share the plethora of knowledge that I learned.”
Ky Reale-Munroe, Environmental Scientist
“I attended the BirdSleuth training to learn more about birds and it was awesome, especially the hands-on activities. This training was definitely memorable and very useful, thank you!”
Jane Coles, Middle-school Science Teacher, Good Hope Country Day School, US Virgin Islands
“I am going to use the BirdSleuth Curriculum with my middle school students and I’m going to help them to carry the program to the other students on our campus.”
Jahnyah Brooks, Department of Planning and Natural Resources, Division of Fish and Wildlife
“Following this workshop, I feel very empowered to go out and identify birds. I understand the steps it takes and the scientific way of going out and doing it. I work with arthropods and I went through a similar process – from the microscope to the field and seeing the different species. It really does all come together. I think this workshop does empower local scientists like myself and everyday citizens who may not be as comfortable in the wild. It gives us a really strong foundation to actually go out and identify these birds.”
Haley Jackson, St. Croix Sea Turtle Project
“This workshop was very informative. The different activities are applicable not only to birding, but can also be updated and used for many other species and habitats. I thought the training was really awesome. We learned a lot of really great tools and ideas on how best to get kids engaged with the environment.”
Gallery
Enjoy more photos from the BirdSleuth training below. Click the images to enlarge and see their captions.
Participants try out the ‘Tall to Tiny’ BirdSleuth Activity. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Spotting birds at Sandy Point, St. Croix. (Photo Lisa Sorenson)
Observing biodiversity close-up at the Botanical Gardens. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
National Park Service staff practice using binoculars. (Photo by Jen Valiulis)
Claudia shares her bird journal art of a Magnificent Frigatebird. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Finding birds in a nearby forest. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Jennifer Fee leads a discussion on the benefits of spending time outdoors. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Jen Valiulus shares insights on shorebird ID at the Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge bird blind. Note-the shorebird poster is available for free download on our website.(Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Group photo, BirdSleuth Caribbean training in St Croix, US Virgin Islands.
Lisa getting birds ready for the Bird Detective game. (Photo by Jennifer Fee)
Participants engaged in the ‘Sound Map’ BirdSleuth Activity. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Staff members of the St. Croix Environmental Association (SEA) and BirdSleuth trainers. L to R- Jennifer Fee, Jen Valiulis, Jade Algarin, Olivia Walton, Lisa Sorenson
Team 1 leading a lesson on habitat characteristics. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Magnificent Frigatebird flying in to Fredensborg Pond, Buddhoe Farms. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Bird blind sign on the road at Sandy Point, National Wildlife Refuge, St. Croix. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Zenaida Dove perched in a tree at the Botanical Gardens, St. Croix. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
A large tree covered in epiphytes seen at the Botanical Gardens in St. Croix. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Participants getting ready for our point count at Fredensborg Pond, Buddhoe Farms. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Teachers create their bird journals. (photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Binkie takes kids birding at a nearby sports field. It did not long for the kids to become hooked on birds!
Binkie van Es shares his experience of working with disadvantaged youth in Sint Maarten—introducing them to birds and science through the BirdSleuth Caribbean education program. Was he successful in getting kids interested in birds? Read on to find out!
In 2014 BirdsCaribbean provided me with training to their BirdSleuth Caribbean Education Program. The training venue for the 3-day workshop was in the beautiful Retreat Garden at the Bahamas National Trust in Nassau. I will never forget how I was introduced into a wonderful new world that will be with me the rest of my life. Birding has never been the same since that week.
From the very first training day I was hooked on the program. I enjoyed every aspect of it.
For those of you that are not familiar with BirdSleuth, it is a program geared to young people. It teaches the life cycle of birds, the challenges birds face, their importance for us, and human influences (both positive and negative) on birds. The goal is to reconnect children with nature – and birds.
The program is set up as a classroom curriculum, but is extremely easy to adapt to other settings. Separate sections can be taught outdoors and during daytime events. With a bit of creativity, “birdsleuthing” can take place off grid. Over the years, I have used BirdSleuth in different ways – whether it is training educators, or teaching children in class myself.
How is the BirdSleuth program received? This varies, depending on the group. The greatest challenge is to get it introduced into school curriculums. The teachers are willing, but school boards are not so keen. The best memories, and greatest successes, have been working with children directly.
Bird feeders in the outdoor classroom in Sint Maarten, part of the Player Development Foundation’s afterschool program for youth that now includes bird watching!
In the summer of 2020, I started working with an afterschool program in Sint Maarten, called Player Development Foundation. This foundation had evolved from a sports activity/ baseball little league to after-school experience-based education. The ages of the children range from 6 – 14 years; they come from difficult backgrounds, many with broken families and living in poverty.
I started visiting them one afternoon per week to teach them about birds. Using BirdSleuth Caribbean, they learn about nature, how to help keep our environment healthy, and how they can learn from bird behavior.
In the first lesson I introduced myself and started talking with them about birds, to find out what they already knew. Importantly, I made them realize that they knew more than they thought they did.
Over the course of several weeks, I taught these children how to use binoculars. They got to see birds close up for the first time in their lives and they were mesmerized.
We also made their location more bird-friendly, installing bird feeders (including feeders the kids made themselves), and attracting an ever-growing variety of birds into their outdoor classroom. Now, they get to see Bananaquits, Black-Faced Grassquits, Bullfinches, Carib Grackles, Pearly-Eyed Thrashers, and Zenaida Doves on a daily basis.
Then the community where they all live became a COVID hotspot, and their coach advised me to stay away until the risk was manageable again. They had to shut down twice for a fortnight because of exposure to the virus.
Nevertheless, the children had become thoroughly hooked on bird watching by that time. They continued to observe the feeders and study the bird’s behavior. Whenever they spotted a bird that they could not name, they would send me a picture for identification. On a weekly basis, the coach would post pictures of their bird adventures on Facebook.
Then the most amazing thing happened. The children were asked by the local newspaper if they were willing to write about the birds in their classroom, and willing they were!!!
A bully bird at the feeders – Find out what happened to the quesadilla!
So far, they have published three newspaper articles. Each story covers one bird species—the first one was on Bananaquits, the second on Carib Grackles, and third about Pearly-Eyed Thrashers.
The children are amazing. They observe carefully and they work hard on their research, although they only have access to one laptop with internet access. They observed, for example, the pecking order between the various species and between male and female birds.
I must admit that the children are better story tellers than I am, and the only help they got from their teacher was with grammar.
If you work with children or are planning to work with them, please consider the BirdSleuth Caribbean program if you are not using it already. It will open up a wonderful new world for you also.
A week after writing this blog post, I will be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and am already planning my return to the children, who in turn, are also excited to hear that I am coming back to them to continue their bird education.
I extend gratitude to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology for developing BirdSleuth and would like to thank BirdsCaribbean for adapting the program for the Caribbean, for introducing me to it and providing all the teaching materials and binoculars. I appreciate all the children and adults who have so far been willing to be taught by me. Most of all, I extend my appreciation to Lisa Sorensen at BirdsCaribbean, who kept me motivated with her boundless energy, and who gave me this new, very rewarding, purpose in life.
By Cornelis “Binkie” van Es is retired from his career in sales and now working full-time on his second “career” as a bird educator, volunteer for several environmental non-profits, and bird tour guide on Sint Maarten/ St. Martin. He is a certified Bird Guide with BirdsCaribbean’s Caribbean Birding Trail program. Do visit this wonderful island – you’ll have the best time birding with Binkie!
BirdsCaribbean thanks the US Fish and Wildlife Service, NMBCA (Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act) Program, and our members and generous donors for funding support for our BirdSleuth Caribbean program. We also thank Jennifer Fee and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology for their partnership and assistance.
Kristy Shortte, a Program Officer at the NGO Sustainable Grenadines, Inc.
A local community that understands the value of natural habitats and the wildlife that lives there is key to successful long-term conservation. Find out how this happens from Kristy Shortte, a Program Officer at the NGO ‘Sustainable Grenadines,’ on Union Island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. From building observation platforms at vital wetlands, to garbage clean-ups and installing information signs, to training locals to identify and help monitor birds, Kristy describes the amazing and inspiring range of work carried out by her organization, local partners – and of course, the local community!
At the trans-boundary NGO Sustainable Grenadines Inc (SusGren) we know that conserving the places where birds live is key to their survival. But how do we achieve this? So many of our habitats are under threat—from pollution and degradation by human activities, to outright destruction for development. When there are competing demands on the use of our natural resources, we need to make wise decisions. Sometimes we need to educate our local citizens about the immense value of these areas to people and wildlife, and to get them actively involved in their conservation. It’s a hands-on approach with community partners. Showing people the benefits of managing and protecting habitats is the best way to ensure the long-term health of bird populations and the habitats on which they depend.
Finding the best ways to protect birds and their habitats
Residents of Union island, harvesting salt at Belmont Salt Pond. (Photo by Radio Grenadines).
Here at SusGren, we have taken the initiative to support birds and protect the places they live through two projects – both completed during the pandemic of 2020! SusGren believes that some areas are so special that they need to be protected – no ifs, ands, or buts!!!!
After many years of hard work to restore Ashton Lagoon and develop it as a bird and nature sanctuary for enjoyment by all, we turned our attention to Belmont Salt Pond. This is the second largest ecosystem on the island of Union and one of the last two remaining salt ponds in the entire St. Vincent and the Grenadines (he other salt pond is on Mayreau). Salt picking is still practiced at Belmont, providing economic benefits to locals.
So…what’s so special about Belmont Salt Pond?
The Belmont Salt Pond area is significant, in that it provides habitat to many species of resident and migratory birds. Here you can see Whimbrels, Willets, Blue-winged Teal, Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, Mangrove Cuckoo, and even the American Flamingo on occasion. Migratory birds use Belmont as a place to rest and feed. This can be for a few days or weeks, before they continue with their migration, while others stay from fall to spring. For other birds, the Salt Pond is ‘home’ all year round.
Blue-winged Teal female spotted at Belmont Salt Pond. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
American Flamingo Spotted at Belmont Salt Pond. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
With this rich history and biodiversity and the salt pond threatened by human activities, SusGren decided to enhance the area for enjoyment by locals and visitors alike. This would help ensure the protection of the area’s biodiversity and would increase ecotourism opportunities in Union Island, following our successful restoration of nearby Ashton Lagoon 2 years ago. The platform would also help us to continue the long-term bird monitoring of our wetlands through participation in the Caribbean Waterbird Census.
Taking a community-based approach
The ‘’Clean up Squad’’ at Belmont Salt Pond. (Photo by Zoe Jennett)
Due to a lack of community knowledge of the importance of the area, it was being used for the burning of charcoal and dumping garbage. We knew that over time these activities would damage Belmont Salt Pond and biodiversity would be negatively impacted. So at Susgren we decided to carry out a project in partnership with members of the community, to ensure that such behavior is reduced and eventually eliminated.
As part of this approach, SusGren contributed towards a cleanup organized by a local group of 10 people called “Union Island Cleanup Squad.” They held massive cleaning up sessions at the Belmont Salt Pond on May 7th and May 13th, 2020. A total of 30 bags of trash was collected during the first session, and 40 additional bags of trash were picked up at the second cleanup around the edges of the pond. It was great to see local community groups actively taking up the stewardship mantle of their island!
Follow the signs!
Interpretive sign at Belmont Salt Pond. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
Our project also involved the construction of viewing platforms at Belmont Salt Pond, designed to provide people with a fantastic overview of the wetland and the birds living there. At each of the Belmont Salt Pond platforms – and at the Ashton Lagoon Eco Trail – we installed interpretive signs displaying resident and migratory birds. We worked with BirdsCaribbean to design signs that included land birds, wetland birds, and shorebirds likely to be seen at each of the sites. At Ashton Lagoon, one sign also provides visitors with knowledge about the marine and terrestrial species of animals found in the area.
Our interpretive signs include features on bird identification. Thus, someone using the platforms at Belmont Salt Pond or our bird towers at Ashton Lagoon can receive a “self-crash-course” in basic bird identification. Moreover, there are now three 4 x 6 billboard signs installed at Belmont Salt Pond that explain the history of the area and its cultural and environmental importance. Two ‘rules’ signs also notify visitors about appropriate behavior in the area.
Keeping the trash at bay
“Bird branded” garbage bins and signs at Belmont Salt Pond. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
To reduce the problem of litter, we installed attractive garbage receptacles at both Belmont Salt Pond and Ashton Lagoon. The bright green receptacles are adorned with images of the various birds one can see in the area. Our hope is that this will help build local pride and community ownership and encourage people to dispose of their garbage in a responsible way.
Since the installation of 4 bins at each location, we are gratified to see that people are using them. The local solid waste management company ‘’Uni Clean’ assists with the weekly disposal of trash from these areas.
Reaching out in different ways
We found different ways of reaching out to our stakeholders and the general public. Normally, we would have been hosting lots of in-person outreach and birding activities and events with the community and schools during the last year. But due to the pandemic and schools closing, we used radio and social media platforms to engage the community and key stakeholders. We made phone calls and delivered letters with updates on our projects. We also sent out a media blast with the local telecommunications company on the island, so that recipients could obtain a poster of the activities being undertaken at Belmont Salt Pond on their phones.
Finally, we had a hugely successful radio interview and webinar with the show, “Conversation Tree” on Radio Grenadines. SusGren’s Program Director, Orisha Joseph and I gave a presentation and discussed our activities with the radio host. This was seen by over 2,000 people and was very well-received.
World Shorebirds Day
Kristy Shortte pointing out and identifying birds on a guided birding walk. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc).
To further community involvement in our work and help people develop a love for the environment and birds, we collaborated with Katrina Collins-Coy, Union Island Environmental Attackers, and celebrated World Shorebirds Day in September, 2020. Eleven students and two teachers from the Stephanie Browne Primary School participated.
The celebration involved a birding walk with Bird Bingo and a Bird Identification tour along the Ashton Lagoon Trail. The children also enjoyed activities in the classroom, such as learning about the Parts of a Bird, bird games, and bird arts and crafts. We were elated to see the enthusiastic students and teachers come out as early as 5:30 am to be a part of the session!
Birds of Belmont Salt Pond – A New Resource!
Through this project (with matched funding from the SVG Conservation Fund) we also developed a booklet entitled “Birds of Belmont Salt Pond.” The booklet includes notes from SusGren’s directors, information on the project’s team, a brief history of the Belmont Salt Pond, photographs of resident and migratory birds found there, and a full checklist and space for taking notes while bird watching and monitoring. Thirty copies were printed and distributed to key stakeholders in the community and other organizations in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We hope this will be a great resource for visitors.
Belmont Salt Point. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
Bird Identification Training Workshop—“Conserving Caribbean Shorebirds and their Habitats”
Participants taking part in a Caribbean Waterbird Census (CWC) Basic Bird ID Training Workshop. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
We weren’t finished yet! We also held a five-day bird identification training workshop as part of the project, during October 2020. The workshop was facilitated by Lystra Culzac, who is the Founder and Manager of Science Initiative for Environmental Conservation and Education (SCIENCE) and graduate of our Conserving Caribbean Shorebirds and their Habitats Training Workshop in 2019 (as is Kristy!). Those taking part represented a wide range of professions, from Park Rangers, Tourism Division, Environmental Groups, and regular community members. As part of the training, a bird monitoring trip took place at the newly installed platforms, making good use of our new booklet “Birds of Belmont Salt Pond.”
We included training in seabird monitoring as part of the workshop and participants took a trip to Catholic Island and Tobago Cays Marine Park. Here they got the opportunity to learn firsthand how to identify a wider variety of the seabird species in their natural habitats. Following the bird watching trip in the Tobago Cays, SusGren, in partnership with SCIENCE, collaborated on a clean-up effort at Petit Bateau, one of the cays in the Marine Park and a known seabird habitat. A total of 6 bags of trash was collected.
Continued CWC Monitoring
At both Ashton Lagoon and Belmont Salt Pond we have been carrying out Caribbean Waterbird Census (CWC) surveys for many years. These surveys help us to keep track of which birds are using these sites, while keeping an eye out for any changes or threats to the habitats. During the project we carried out 9 CWC surveys across Ashton Lagoon and Belmont Salt Pond, making visits twice a month. Now that the project is over we plan to continue to monitor the birds at both sites using CWC surveys. With all our newly trained birders on Union island, equipped with binoculars and copies of the ‘Birds of Belmont Salt Point,’ we should have plenty of support to do this!
How did the community respond to our work?
During an Attitude and Perception survey interview done with residents on the island, persons expressed excitement and satisfaction with the new development. One noted interviewee was Benjamin Wilson, a Tobago Cays Park Ranger. Wilson said, “Before the enhancement, I would have passed the salt pond straight – but now I have to gaze at the work that was done.’’ SusGren believes that this project was the first step towards having a local community that value ‘their’ wetland. The wildlife viewing platform is now being regularly used by locals and tourists alike!
Mission accomplished? Yes, for that phase, which is a first step in the right direction towards bird and habitat conservation.
This project was made possible with funding and support from BirdsCaribbean via the US Fish and Wildlife Service NMBCA program and BirdsCaribbean members and donors, with matching funds from the SVG Conservation Fund.
Kristy Shortte has worked with Sustainable Grenadines Inc since 2013, starting out as an Administrative and Research Assistant. Since 2017 she has served as a Program Officer. Kristy has qualifications in Business Studies, and since working at Sustainable Grenadines, she has been dedicated to using her business knowledge and environmental training and experience to empower her community in the Grenadines to protect and develop their resources sustainably. She has grown to love and be inspired by nature and birds since working for SusGren. She comments, “A lot of times I would look at birds and observe how they are so fearless and free in the sky and by looking at these creatures you learn from them about how to create a beautiful life.”
Salt being produced at Belmont. (Photo by Radio Grenadines)
One of the new signs showing the bird of Belmont Salt Pond. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
The new platform at Belmont Salt Pond. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
Lesser Yellowlegs at Belmont Salt Pond. (photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
Kids with BirdSleuth Caribbean Bird Bingo-cards. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
Kids learning about birds with BirdSleuth Caribbean and World Migratory Bird Day materials. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
Belmont Salt Pond. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
Viewing Platform at Belmont Salt Pond. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
Viewing Platform at Belmont Salt Pond. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
American Flamingo Spotted at Belmont Salt Pond. (Photo by Sustainable Grenadines Inc)
“Protect birds: Be the Solution to Plastic Pollution.”
A beach clean-up at Punta Cucharas Nature Reserve, Ponce, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Eduardo Llegus)
Islands across the Caribbean turned the focus on the devastating impact of plastic pollution on rivers, wetlands and seas with the theme for World Migratory Bird Day 2019 (WMBD 2019). Grassroots organizations, government ministries and agencies and non-governmental organizations collaborated on a range of activities focused on the fascinating species that appear on the islands later in the year, and stay until spring.
Since 2017, a number of Caribbean countries have started initiatives to fight single-use plastics. – including Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Dominica, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Turks and Caicos Islands. Others are starting to look at measures to ban Styrofoam manufacture and imports. More plastic and Styrofoam bans are set to take effect in 2020. While much more work is needed on the ground and in partnership with governments, there is growing awareness on the islands that plastic pollution is harmful to both land and marine environments. Whether these are wetlands or coastal regions, many areas affected provide habitats for migratory birds.
Mangroves, Masks and Migratory Birds
We did it! Students display the results of their BirdSleuth Caribbean Scavenger Hunt in Salt River, Jamaica. (photo by Emma Lewis)
In Jamaica, the Portland Bight Discovery Centre in Salt River, Clarendon hosted World Migratory Bird Day with teachers and students from nearby schools. Science Officer at the Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation (C-CAM) D. Brandon Hay gave an illustrated talk, outlining how ingesting plastic affects bird life, and which species suffer. After a lively Q and A session, the students took a guided walking tour of a nearby wetland area, using BirdSleuth Caribbean’s Scavenger Hunt materials. The students also created and displayed colorful birdfeeders, and performed original educational pieces, including dub poetry and song – all reflecting the theme! After a guided boat ride through the mangroves, their day ended tallying points earned from these activities. The first prize winner was the Mitchell Town Primary and Infant School!
Education Officer in Dominica Ameka Cognet reported highlights of the day’s activities. Primary school students enjoyed making colourful migratory bird masks. They then went on a birdwatching tour of the Botanical Gardens in the island’s capital, Roseau. The children learned a great deal about the migratory species that visit the island annually. They also gained a much deeper understanding of how plastic pollutes the environment, choking land and sea and harming birds and other wildlife.
A First for St. Croix and Record Numbers for St. Martin’s Seventh Celebration
Creative use of plastic waste to make bird feeders! St. Croix Environmental Association WMBD event. (photo by Jen Valulius)
The St. Croix Environmental Association in the U.S. Virgin Islands (the site of BirdsCaribbean’s very first international meeting in 1988) celebrated WMBD for the first time – and they did it in style. They organized two events in October at the Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge. Arts and crafts, bird walks, bird banding, and storytelling activities were on the agenda. A bird rescue expert gave a talk, and informational displays were presented. The activities included a coastal clean-up, where participants saw for themselves how much plastic is in the environment. “Every activity had a meaningful impact on each participant,” said Jennifer Valiulis, local coordinator. Clean-up materials provided by Environment from the Americas were also distributed to participants.
No less than 250 residents, young and old, enthusiastically joined WMBD celebrations spearheaded by the non-governmental organization Les Fruits de Mer in St. Martin. “We were able to reach more youth than ever, and it is all thanks to our sponsors,” said event organizer Jenn Yerkes. St. Martin’s seventh annual Migratory Bird Festival at Amuseum Naturalis was a great success, with students using BirdSleuth Caribbean materials for several activities. Crafts are always popular, and the children decorated canvas backpacks to take home with them. Technology was also an exciting feature this year; the mobile media and learning hub IdeasBox shared videos and e-books.
Education is Key! And Thanks to All the Sponsors
Young artists at work on bird-themed bags at Les Fruits de Mer’s Migratory Bird Festival in St. Martin. (photo by Mark Yokoyama).
World Migratory Bird Day offers another opportunity for our partners across the region to educate residents on the importance of conserving habitats and ensuring that our visiting species continue to thrive when they visit our islands. This year, the message was about how plastic pollution affects not only our birds, but our own quality of life also. There are solutions, but we must take action for our own health as well as that of the vulnerable birds that we enjoy every day.
We would like to thank all the sponsors – local, national, and international – who provide funding for these important activities. Special thanks to Environment for the Americas for providing awesome materials. If your organization participated in an event and if you would like to share your experience, please send us a message to sdiaz-mendez@environementamericas.org. It’s about the birds, the habitat and the people.
A Few Lines of Poetry to End With
Caribbean people love poetry as a form of expression. We end with these few lines from Greta, a University of the Virgin Islands student and presenter of World Migratory Bird Day at Southgate Coastal Reserve, who offers this advice:
Be a solution To plastic pollution. Always walk with a garbage bag and pick up your trash. Do not throw it where the birds hatch.
Let’s spread the word and fight plastic pollution in the Caribbean!
Enjoy the gallery of photos from WMBD events in 2019; hover over each photo to see the caption or click on a photo to see a slide show.
Painting hand-made bird feeders. (photo by Jen Valiulis)
Beach clean-up in Guanabo, Cuba.
Students in Dominica proudly show off their bird masks.
Creative use of plastic waste to make bird feeders! St. Croix Environmental Association WMBD event. (photo by Jen Valiulis)
Beach clean-up in Guanabo, Cuba.
How big is your wing span? WMBD event in St. Croix, US Virgin islands.
Working out bird puzzles at the WMBD Community Festival in Quinta de Los Molinas, Cuba.
A young girl is happy with her migratory warbler tattoo at a WMBD Community Festival in Quinta de Los Molinas, Cuba.
This is my wingspan! A student at the WMBD event in St. Martin spreads her “wings.” (photo by Mark Yokoyama)
Dominos are very popular in Cuba, especially this version made with birds!
Educational materials on display at the WMBD Community Festival in Quinta de Los Molinas, Cuba.
Young artists at work on bird-themed bags at Les Fruits de Mer’s Migratory Bird Festival in St. Martin. (photo by Mark Yokoyama).
A beach clean-up at Punta Cucharas Nature Reserve, Ponce, Puerto Rico. (Photo by Eduardo Llegus)
The beach is much cleaner now!
Least Sandpipers at the Portland Bight Discovery Centre, Jamaica. (photo by Emma Lewis)
On the scavenger hunt on the Portland Bight Discovery Centre’s boardwalk through the mangroves, Jamaica. (photo by Emma Lewis)
Students from Rose Hall Primary School in Jamaica do a little research. (photo by Emma Lewis)
Alieny Gonzalez, WMBD Coordinador in Cuba counts shorebirds for WMBD.
Working together to clean up a beach in Cuba overloaded with plastic trash. (photo by Alieny Gonzalez)
The sad impacts of plastic pollution on birds- this cormorant will not survive long with this plastic ring stuck on its bill and neck.
Brandon Hay, Science Officer at the Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation (C-CAM) gives a talk to students and teachers on the impact of plastic pollution on our birds. (photo by Emma Lewis)
Dominos are very popular in Cuba, especially this version made with birds!
Learning all about raptors at St. Croix Environmental Association’s WMBD event. (photo by Jen Valiulis)
Highlight of this year’s celebrations in Dominica were a migratory bird mask-making activity with primary schools, followed by a birdwatching tour at the Botanical Gardens in the Roseau Area.
Story time in St. Croix, all about the amazing long distance migration of the Whimbrel. (photo by Jen Valiulis)
Learning all about the impacts of plastic pollution on birds in Cuba.
A timeline of Jamaica’s bans on single-use plastic. (photo by Emma Lewis)
A young Brown Booby caught on a fishing lure. Many kinds of plastic are dangerous to Caribbean birds. (Photo by Michiel Oversteegen)
Beach clean-up for WMBD in St. Martin/ Sint Maarten, organized by EPIC (Environmental Protection in the Caribbean).
Some little ones are taking their bird art seriously, but others have time for a toothy smile – at the Amuseum Naturalis in St. Martin. (photo by Mark Yokoyama)
Youth work hard at beach clean-up in Guanabo, Cuba.
World Migratory Bird Day Poster showing different groups of birds that are affected by plastic pollution. (Artwork by BirdsCaribbean member, Arnaldo Toledo, from Cuba)
We did it! Students display the results of their BirdSleuth Caribbean Scavenger Hunt in Salt River, Jamaica. (photo by Emma Lewis)
It’s a hit – for students, teachers and communities.
Binkie van Es leads an eager BirdSleuth group at Les Fruits de Mer Natural History Museum on St. Martin. (photo by Mark Yokoyama)
“This program is so well designed that once introduced to educators it sells itself. It brings knowledge with the help of fun activities, and because birds are all around us, it helps children and adults alike to better appreciate our immediate surroundings, and inspires environmental stewardship for our surrounding habitats,” said Binkie van Es, an educator and guide on the island of St. Martin/ St. Maarten.
What was Binkie enthusing about? It is the BirdSleuth Caribbean program “Connecting Kids Through Birds,” an innovative, vibrant curriculum that uses birds to teach youth how to study, appreciate and conserve Caribbean birds. Designed for students 9-13 years old, the BirdSleuth Caribbean program contains lessons, activities and learning games that can be done in the classroom and outdoors.
BirdsCaribbean recently submitted its Final Report on the five-year program, which received funding support from the Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act Fund of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
BirdsCaribbean is proud to report that over the five years almost 50,000 children and community members on 22 islands/ countries joined in a range of BirdSleuth activities and learning opportunities. From Junior Rangers in the Grenadines to pre-school teachers in Haiti and Montserrat, Caribbean citizens of all ages got involved.
Detectives of Discovery
A young BirdSleuth participant in Carriacou is fully focused on documenting the clues. (Photo by P. Becker)
Now, what exactly is a sleuth? He (or she) is a person who tracks things; a keen investigator who unearths all kinds of interesting facts. Inquiry is an important feature of the BirdSleuth Caribbean curriculum, which was adapted for the Caribbean by Project Coordinator Lisa Sorenson and her team. The study of our birds means asking questions: What? (species identification) Where? (habitats) and How? (the interactive nature of the learning process). There is also a Why? (the important role our birds play in Caribbean ecosystems). Why, indeed, are birds important? At the end of any BirdSleuth training session, students can all answer that question – and in many different ways.
The program got off to an exciting start in October, 2014, when 27 participants from 23 different islands attended a workshop at the Headquarters of the Bahamas National Trust in Nassau. The three-day workshop included field trips as well as classroom sessions, and peer teaching. With workshop kits and relevant materials tucked under their arms, the trained educators returned home and held 39 Birdsleuth Training Workshops for over 1,000 educators in their own countries. The response was overwhelmingly positive.
Project Coordinator and BirdsCaribbean Executive Director Lisa Sorenson is happy at the achievements of the program – and very optimistic about its prospects for sustainability. “We are especially pleased that we were able to adapt the materials from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s highly-successful BirdSleuth International Program for a Caribbean audience,” she said. “This was welcomed by teachers, who did not see it as an ‘imported’ curriculum, but immediately embraced and adopted it as their own. This brought the whole program to life.”
Inclusive for all Avian Investigators
Dr. Sorenson also sees it as important that all the project materials are available in English, Spanish and French. BirdsCaribbean partners are also working on Creole and Dutch versions. All the materials are available for download free of cost on the BirdsCaribbean website. Those who are interested in starting their own BirdSleuth program – whether a school, a community group or a conservation organization – can get in touch with their local BirdSleuth partners for guidance. It’s a sustainable, ongoing project.
BirdSleuth students with their certificates on Abaco, The Bahamas.
So, where have the ”Bird Sleuths” been busy sleuthing? The program has not only been taking place in school classrooms, but also at summer camps, after-school science clubs, and at events organized by youth and community organizations. Les Fruits de Mer’s Heritage Museum in St. Martin has a permanent BirdSleuth activity station for visitors. BirdSleuth Caribbean activities have also been used in annual celebrations such as World Wetlands Day, World Migatory Bird Day, and the Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival.
The feedback from the 2014 workshop and beyond has been positive. “The materials are extremely entertaining, which appeals to the children,” said Johanna Rodriguez of Grupo Acción Ecologica in the Dominican Republic. Amy Avenant of the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs in the Turks and Caicos Islands noted: “The curriculum is well structured and uncomplicated, driving home the need for habitat conservation and equipping youth with an empathetic looking-glass through which they can view both migratory and resident bird species, alike.”
Gumshoes Achieving Goals
Children and adults have been both inspired and entertained, engaging in a wide range of activities such as planting native plants beneficial to birds, developing birding trails, conducting clean-ups, and monitoring local birds using eBird Caribbean. Despite some challenges (including hurricanes, and fitting in with teachers’ busy schedules) there were many high points. One example is the declaration of the Petite Carenage wetland on Carriacou as a protected bird sanctuary, thanks to local partner, the KIDO Foundation. They have turned nearly the entire island into a community that cares about birds and have been busy building and installing nest boxes, planting trees, and creating original artwork for their interpretive materials and signage.
The Petit Carenage Sanctuary in Carriacou, one of the Grenadine islands of Grenada. (photo courtesy of the KIDO Foundation)
“The goal of BirdSleuth Caribbean is to encourage Caribbean people in the study, appreciation and protection of endemic and migratory birds and their habitats,” explained Lisa Sorenson. “In the past five years, we have realized that the study of our beautiful birds has sparked a new excitement and an interest in teaching – and learning – more about science and conservation. And once that spark is lit, it often grows into a real passion for birds, which we at BirdsCaribbean share, of course!”
BirdSleuth Caribbean is an inquiry-based science curriculum that engages kids in scientific study and real data collection. BirdSleuth encourages kids to answer their own questions about nature using the scientific process. Students will spend more time outdoors, connecting with nature by focusing on the fascinating sights, sounds and behaviors of birds.Click here for more information on the BirdSleuth Caribbean program.
We are extremely grateful to the USFWS Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act Fund for providing the main funding for this program. We also thank the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, US Forest Service International Program, Optics for the Tropics, Vortex Optics, Bahamas National Trust, and Parc National de la Guadeloupe for funding and support.
Photo gallery: Hover over each photo to see the caption. Click on the first photo to start a slide show.
Cuba BirdSleuth teachers receive their certificates after a fun and eventful training.
Understanding the life cycle and needs of birds – teacher artwork in a workshop led by Sociedad Ornitológica Puertorriqueña (photo by Israel Guzman)
Officer Antonia giving a lesson on bird identification to the junior group at KIDO in Carricou.
Senior birders and very good friends, Jamal and Anthony, in the Bird Watching Club in Carriacou Grenada. (photo by P. Becker)
Jamaican teacher learning to identify local birds by size and shape. (photo courtesy of National Environment and Planning Agency)
BIrdSleuth Caribbean Teacher’s Workshop in Jamaica, led by Ava Tomlinson of the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA). (photo courtesy of NEPA)
The BirdSleuth Caribbean curriculum and supporting materials (posters, games, etc.) is available in English, Spanish and French.
A group of teachers works on bird ID basics at a training workshop in Puerto Rico organized by Sociedad Ornitológica Puertorriqueña (photo by Israel Guzman)
Learning to use a scope at the Petit Carenage Bird Sanctuary. (photo by A.Peters)
Children in Grenada on a birding trip, learning about the special birds that call the island home. (photo by KIDO Foundtaion)
Petit Carenage, planting red mangroves where a hurricane destroyed a vast forest. (photo by P. Becker)
Birding field trip on Union Island, St. Vincent and the Grenadines (photo courtesy of Sustainable Grenadines Inc).
BirdSleuth Workshop Participants in Haiti. (Photo by Debbie Baker)
Read about the success of this project in these articles:
We wrap up our series of our 30th Anniversary celebrations with this final video. In the Caribbean we celebrate not only the diversity of our birds (172 bird species found only in the region!), but also our members. For 30 years we have brought people together from dozens of countries to learn from each other, share ideas, and forge friendships and partnerships. Our members often tell us how much they value our network for the support and inspiration that it provides. It gives us the strength to keep going in the face of many challenges. And sometimes our members even fall in love.
First up is Jessica Rozek, graduate student at Tufts University. Jessica is studying sustainable use of wetlands in Trinidad and important stopover and wintering sites for shorebirds in the Caribbean. Jessica joined BirdsCaribbean in 2016 and has been an active member ever since. She is on the editorial board of the Journal of Caribbean Ornithology and a contributor to our blog. As our Waterbird Program Manager, Jessica is coordinating our upcoming Conserving Caribbean Shorebirds and their Habitats Workshop in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico and our Caribbean Waterbird Census Small Grants program.
Ingrid Flores worked for four years as Regional Coordinator of our Caribbean Endemic Bird and International Migratory Bird Festivals. The festivals introduce people to the joy and beauty oif local birds. They also help people understand how these birds are part of each island’s natural heritage and it is up to local communities to conserve them. Ingrid helped coordinators organize activities, shipped out materials, and managed social media around the festivals and bird education. She is passionate about Caribbean birds and encouraging people to become involved.
Glenroy Gaymes is the Chief Wildlife Officer in the Forestry Dept in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He is well-known as a local expert on all aspects of the country’s flora and fauna, and is involved in many conservation initatives. Glenroy is also a founding member of SCIENCE, a local NGO. Together with member Lystra Culzac and other SCIENCE officers, Glenroy is active in teaching youth and local people about birds. His team carries out our BirdSleuth Caribbean program with school clubs and summer camps. He is also active as a local bird guide to residents and visitors alike.
Maydiel Canizares is a Cuban Biologist. For the past five years, he worked as a Biologist in the protected areas of Zapata Swamp Biosphere Reserve. Twenty three of the 28 endemic birds of Cuba can be seen here, in addition to ~300 resident and migratory birds. It’s a very important place for migration, featuring many types of diverse habitats. It’s also an Important Bird Area (IBA) and a Ramsar site. Two big conservation initiatives in Zapata Swamp that Maydiel worked on are: 1) encouraging locals to landscape with native plants (which will help endemics like the Bee Hummingbird), and 2) installing nest boxes for threatened psittacid species: the Cuban Parakeet and the Cuban Parrot. Maydiel is also an experienced bird guide and led several of BirdsCaribbean’s bird tours at our conference in Cuba in 2017.
Jen Mortenson is a Post Doctoral Fellow at the University of Arkansas . Through her PhD research Jen was able to provide key data and recommendations for the first conservation plan of the White-breasted Thrasher, an endangered bird found only on St Lucia and Martinique. You can read about Jen’s exciting research here. We are grateful to Jen for this important work and so happy to have her as an active member of BirdsCaribbean.
Lisa Sorenson (Executive Director) and Jennifer Wheeler (recently retired Treasurer) are well-known to the BirdsCaribbean community for their many years of service in developing programs, raising funds, helping partners, and keeping the organization running smoothly. They had fun wishing BirdsCaribbean a very happy 30th birthday.
Editor’s note: After many months of paperwork and a visit to the US Embassy in Guyana, Maydiel immigrated to the US this past October. He and Jessica married in November 2018, the second BirdsCaribbean couple that we know of – congratulations!!!
Sincere thanks to Esther Figueroa (Vagabond Media) for putting together this video and Ingrid Flores, JC Fernández-Ordóñez, and José Colón-López for Spanish translation. Thank you to José (Pepe) González Díaz and Felisa (Fela) Collazo Torres for the video footage of the Green Mango (hummingbird) in Puerto Rico feeding on one of our donated feeders after Hurricane Maria devastated the island. Golden Swallow photograph is by Dax Roman. Special thanks to our members, partners and supporters who make this work possible!!!
In case you missed them, view our other fun 30th Anniversary videos at links below:
Another short entertaining video in our series celebrating our 30th Anniversary! Thanks to our members and partners for sharing your thoughts with us in creative and entertaining ways!
First up is our partner, Sustainable Grenadines Inc. (SusGren), based in Union Island, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Drone footage shows recent progress on the restoration of Ashton Lagoon, which is underway now! After more than 12 years of hard work and perseverance, this -mangrove-salt pond-coral reef ecosystem damaged by a failed marina development is being restored to its former glory. BirdsCaribbean has been a partner on this project from the very beginning! Our initial Wetlands Education Training Workshop way back in 2004 was the catalyst for this work and we have assisted with fundraising and project planning. Congrats to SusGren Team and we look forward to further updates!
Next up is Hannah Madden, a biologist working with the Caribbean Netherlands Science Institute based in St. Eustatius. She has been studying the nesting ecology of Red-billed Tropicbirds on St. Eustatius since 2012 but also conducts research and monitoring on other avifauna, such as the Bridled Quail-dove. Hannah is Secretary of the Board of Directors of BirdsCaribbean starting Jan 2018. She is an active member, attending our various workshops and conferences, carrying out waterbird monitoring through the Caribbean Waterbird Census. and leading local education events for World Migratory Bird Day and the Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival. She has published a number of papers on different taxonomic groups, but always tends to gravitate towards birds.
Jeff Gerbracht is the Lead Application Developer for eBird at the Cornell Lab or Ornithology. Jeff has been a long-time member and key partner of BirdsCaribbean. He has provided critical help to us in developing our bird monitoring programs as well as our own eBird Caribbean online portal. Jeff is a facilitator at many of our training workshops and conferences. His enthusiasm, knowledge, and love of birds is inspiring. Thanks to Jeff for donating so much time to us to help us advance conservation of Caribbean Birds!
Anthony Levesque has discovered over 40 species never before recorded in Guadeloupe and banded more than 10,000 birds. He is currently carrying out research to advance our knowledge of the impacts of hunting on shorebirds in Guadeloupe. When he is not shaving ;-), he is also the Guadeloupian coordinator of the World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) since its inception in 2006 and served as Regional Coordinator for many years. Anthony is co-chair of our Checklists Working Group. He is a founding member of AMAZONA – a local bird NGO, active in Guadeloupe with over 300 members. His enthusiasm and sense of humor are always a delight!
We first met Binkie van Es in 2014 when he attended our BirdSleuth Caribbean International Training Workshop, an innovative education program that reaches thousands of youth across 18 islands. Since then Binkie has been putting what he learned to excellent use in Sint Maarten/ St. Martin, educating hundreds of youth and community members about the beauty and value of our birds. Recently retired, Binkie is also a certified bird guide – he took our Caribbean Birding Trail Guide Training Workshop in 2016 and has been helping visitors and residents alike to find and enjoy birds on his home island. Binkie’s passion is infectious – we are lucky to have him as a partner for both education and bird tourism!!!
Ricardo Miller works as a biologist for the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) in Jamaica. He is committed to doing all he can to ensure that Jamaica’s birds and wild places are conserved for future generations to enjoy. He does this through his work at NEPA and also tireless volunteer efforts educating youth in schools and taking Jamaicans out birding for our Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival and World Migratory Bird Day. Ricardo is also an outstanding bird guide and has own business, Arrowhead Birding. For 30 years BirdsCaribbean has provided conservationists across the Caribbean the ability to share information and strategies for studying and conserving birds and their habitats through training workshops, conferences, working groups and regional projects, as well as the academically acclaimed Journal of Caribbean Ornithology.
Sincere thanks to Esther Figueroa (Vagabond Media) for putting together this video and Ingrid Flores, JC Fernández-Ordóñez, and José Colón-López for Spanish translation. Thanks to SusGren for their awesome drone mini-video. Photographs are by Sipke Stapert (Brown Pelican) and Tadas Jucys (Purple-throated Carib, Shutterstock). Special thanks to our members, partners and supporters who make this work possible!!!
In case you missed them, view our other fun 30th Anniversary videos at links below:
Our 30th Anniversary celebration of BirdsCaribbean continues! We’re delighted to share another short fun video of our members and partners describing the work they are doing with us to conserve birds and sending messages of congratulations. Thanks to you all for being part of our community, and enjoy!
Starting us off is Scott Johnson, Science Officer for the Bahamas National Trust (BNT). Scott shares his thoughts on how BirdsCaribbean changed his life, including his gratitude to the organization for introducing him to his wife, Janeczka Johnson, from Anguilla – they were married one year ago! Scott and Jan met at our BirdSleuth Caribbean International Training Workshop in Nassau. Scott’s work at BNT focuses on terrestrial fauna in the national parks. He loves Bahamian birds and reptiles and is a talented naturalist and skilled educator.
Jody Daniel-Simon is from Grenada and is working on her Ph.D. She has been working with colleagues at Gaea Conservation Network and Grenada Fund for Conservation to share our BirdSleuth Caribbean education program with teachers and hundreds of island children. This has helped secure a long sought-after Bird Sanctuary in the outstanding mangrove wetland of Petite Carenage. BirdsCaribbean has provided binoculars and BirdSleuth curriculum materials to increase the understanding and appreciation of birds across Grenada and Grenadines.
Akeisha Clarke is from Petite Martinique, part of Grenada – she attended her first BirdsCaribbean 21 International Conference last year. Over 250 participants from 30 islands and countries met in Cuba in 2017 at this conference. For many this is the only opportunity to collaborate on how birds are studied and protected. BirdsCaribbean funded the participation of 120 students and young professionals (including 60 Cubans). Akeisha left the conference excited to start a bird education program at home and she has been going strong since then!
Justin Proctor, our Vice President, shows off his questionable bird ID skills (;-) since becoming a member. For over 10 years BirdsCaribbean has supported science and conservation of the Black-capped Petrel and BC Board Treasurer, Jennifer Wheeler, is the Working Group’s Co-Chair. Justin is Associate Editor of our journal, The Journal of Caribbean Ornithology, and is Head of our Organizing Committee for our 22nd International Conference in Guadeloupe.
Bertrand Jno Baptiste, aka “Dr. Birdy,” worked for many years as a Forestry Officer in the Forestry, Wildlife & Parks Division in Dominica, and has been a long-time member and partner of BirdsCaribbean. Since his retirement from Forestry, Birdy enjoys sharing his passion for birds and nature in Dominica as a bird tour guide and is part of BirdsCaribbean’s Caribbean Birding Trail program. This program seeks to build sustainable incomes for conservation-minded communities. Since its inception it has conducted 6 training workshops for more than 150 people, giving local residents the skills and tools needed to take visitors out birding as well as well interpret the cultural and natural resources of their islands.
Adrianne Tossas is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Puerto Rico, Aguadilla. She attended her first BC meeting in 1998 when she was a graduate student. She considers BirdsCaribbean the backbone of her career and a very significant part of her life, thanks to the support, mentoring and inspiration received from this organization and its members. She is now paying it forward teaching a new generation of students in Puerto Rico about the ecology of birds and conservation.
We especially thank Adrianne for working as our first Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival Coordinator starting in 2002. Each year this celebration raises public awareness, knowledge and appreciation for the region’s many resident and migratory bird species, especially the high number of endemic birds in the region (172)—species that exist nowhere else in the world.
Cynthia Pekarik works as the Coordinator of Migratory Birds Conservation with the Canadian Wildlife Service, a key partner for BirdsCaribbean. Cynthia has helped with funding to develop our Caribbean Waterbird Census program. Her support was key in gathering the data to have Cargill Salt Ponds in Bonaire designated a Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network Site. David Mizrahi is a shorebird biologist with New Jersey Audubon and also collaborates with BC on shorebird conservation.
Sincere thanks to Esther Figueroa (Vagabond Media) for putting together this video and Ingrid Flores, JC Fernández-Ordóñez, and José Colón-López for Spanish translation. Thanks to Scott Johnson for his brilliant mini-video. Photographs are by Bruce Hallett (Bahama Yellowthroat) and Gregg Homel (Grenada Dove). Special thanks to our members, partners and supporters who make this work possible!!!
With so many recent tragic and conflicted events occurring in the world, BirdsCaribbean wants to share something uplifting. As part of our continuing 30th Anniversary celebration, we present you with a two-minute glimpse of what our Cuban, Puerto Rican, and Mexican colleagues are doing to conserve birds and their expressions of appreciation to BirdsCaribbean. Please take a moment to enjoy their inspiring words and images.
First we hear from Alieny González-Alfonso, graduate student at the University of Havana. Together with her fellow students and professors, Alieny has been a a powerhouse of positive actions for understanding and conserving Cuba’s resident and migratory birds. She is studying Reddish Egrets for her PhD and participates in Caribbean Waterbird Census monitoring every year. Alieny also organizes events to celebrate our Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival and World Migratory Bird Day each year and coordinates activities across the island. Alieny also conducts teacher training workshops and leads activities for our BirdSleuth Caribbean education program. Congrats and thanks to Alieny and her team for her amazing work!
Next we travel to Puerto Rico and hear from José Colón-López. José is a legend in his native Puerto Rico. As a volunteer with SOPI, he has been active in studying and conserving the endemic and migratory birds of Puerto Rico and their habitats for over 30 years. He generously donates his time to train and mentor others, sharing his passion and vast knowledge with a new generation of conservationists. José is also a founding member of BirdsCaribbean and has been to every single conference of ours since the first one in St. Croix 30 years ago!!! Cheers to Jose and thanks for inspiring us with your dedication and energy!
Adriana Vallarino, Ph.D., is a professor a the Institute of Marine Sciences and Limnology, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. She studies Masked Boobies and Least Terns in the Campeche Bank in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea, vitally important nesting islands for many Caribbean seabirds. Adriana attended our International Seabird Training Workshop in San Salvador, Bahamas in 2012 and since then, has been carrying out innovative research and conservation work, including studying the impacts of micro plastics on seabirds. She also does a marvelous job organizing bird education events in Campeche, featuring birding walks, bird art and photography, mini workshops and more. We’re proud that Adriana is part of our network!
The videos highlight how our programs are engaging young and old in direct conservation, opening doors for scientific and educational exchange, and promoting sustainable livelihoods in ecotourism. Grab a cup of shade grown coffee, sit back and enjoy an inspirational moment.
Thank you to Esther Figueroa (Vagabond Media) for putting together this video and Ingrid Flores, JC Fernández-Ordóñez, and José Colón-López for Spanish translation. Photographs in the video are by Aslam Ibrahim Castellan Maure (Bee Hummingbird), Lisa Sorenson (American Flamingos), Wilfred Marissen (Reddish Egret), Aslam Ibrahim Castellan Maure (Blue-headed Quail-Dove), Jose Pantaleon (Cuban Trogon), Susan Jacobson (Western Spindalis), Lisa Sorenson (Viñales Valley, Cuba), Gary Donaldson (Trinidad, Cuba), Gary Donaldson (Zapata Swamp), AnnHaynes-Sutton (Masked Booby) and Arnaldo Toledo (Cuban Tody). Special thanks to our members, partners and supporters who make this work possible!!!
The new French version of BirdSleuth Caribbean (Connecting Kids through Birds—Teaching how to study, appreciate, and conserve endemic and migratory birds in the Caribbean) – 57 pages of lessons and activities.
BirdsCaribbean is excited to announce that our popular BirdSleuth Caribbean curriculum and supporting materials are now available in French.
BirdSleuth Caribbean is an innovative program designed to teach young learners how to study, appreciate and conserve Caribbean birds. It is part of a larger BirdSleuth program developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. The original, US-based BirdSleuth program was adapted specifically for the Caribbean and has been a success in engaging students across the region with their native birds.
This BirdSleuth curriculum includes many fun activities which are perfect for kids that benefit from a hands-on lesson—and who doesn’t? Activities include creating a bird journal, learning how to use binoculars, and conducting bird counts. The best part is, these are the same skills that adult birdwatchers and scientists use. In fact, the bird counts can be entered into the citizen science website eBird Caribbean and used in actual scientific research! This teaches kids that their observations are important in addition to building their science skills. Their data can help scientists learn more about complicated topics like bird migration.
Educators from Puerto Rico, Cuba and the Dominican Republic share their bird journals from the International Training workshop in Nassau, Bahamas. Left to right: Israel Guzmán (Sociedad Ornitológica Puertorriqueña Inc., Puerto Rico), Ianela Garcia Lau (University of Havana, Cuba), Johanna Rodriguez Paulino (Grupo Acción Ecologica, Dominican Republic).
One benefit of the program is the opportunity to get kids out into nature where they can be active, and observe and connect with the animals in their environment. The overall goal is to develop a strong conservation ethic in young people and promote commitment to environmental stewardship by increasing their knowledge and interest in birds, nature and science. Because of the diverse cultural backgrounds in the Caribbean, it is important that BirdSleuth is available in the languages spoken across the region.
Twenty-seven educators from around the region attended an intensive 3-day International Training Workshop for BirdSleuth in the fall of 2014 in Nassau, Bahamas. Since then they have been using the English and Spanish versions of the curriculum to train local teachers how to use the program. They have also been using BirdSleuth activities in their annual bird festival events, after-school programs and summer camps with great success.
Jermy Shroeter, a ranger at the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park, helps a BirdSleuth Caribbean camp participant in Jamaica identify a bird in the Bird Detective game (Lesson 8)
“We can’t wait to use the curriculum here in Guadeloupe” said Anthony Levesque. “It’s so important to teach our young people about science, nature and conservation – birds can definitely act as that spark to ignite an interest in the natural world. Students also learn that they can contribute to local conservation efforts and science through their actions.”
Read more about our BirdSleuth Caribbean program here. The curriculum and supporting materials are available for free download in English, Spanish and French at this link. A limited number of printed copies will also be available. Contact Lisa Sorenson at Lisa.Sorenson@BirdsCaribbean.org for more information.
We are grateful to Parc National de la Guadeloupe for funding the translation of the curriculum to French. Many thanks to Nathalie Hecker for her excellent translation of the BirdSleuth Caribbean curriculum and materials.
Young “bird sleuths” in Jamaica play the Bird Detective Game (Lesson 8) in BirdSleuth Caribbean curriculum. (photo courtesy of Jamaica Environment Trust).
In the Caribbean and around the world, teachers and other educators are looking for new ways to engage students with the natural environment, inspire an interest in science and math and help youth learn to work together as a team. Some environmental educators believe birds may be the perfect focal point for accomplishing these goals, and the BirdSleuth Caribbean program was developed. During an intensive three-day training session in the Bahamas, Caribbean educators learned the program and are now poised to spread the program throughout the region.
The Retreat is a small national park nestled amongst the hustle and bustle of Nassau, Bahamas. Inside The Retreat, two dozen educators and conservationists from different islands throughout the Caribbean gathered October 15 to 17, 2014 to learn the BirdSleuth Caribbean curriculum. After their training, they returned to their islands ready to share this program with teachers and students.
Workshop participants and faciliators enjoying a birding walk at The Retreat, Bahamas National Trust, Nassau, Bahamas.
BirdSleuth Caribbean is a program designed to teach youth how to study, appreciate and conserve Caribbean birds. It is part of a larger BirdSleuth program developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. The original, US-based BirdSleuth program was adapted specifically for the Caribbean and its birds. At this workshop, each attendee was trained in the program and return with a full kit of supplies to implement the program. Over the coming months and years, workshops will be held throughout the Caribbean to train local teachers this program so they can share these activities with their classes.
The BirdSleuth curriculum includes many fun, hands-on activities, like creating a bird journal, learning to use binoculars and doing bird counts that can be entered into the citizen science website eBird Caribbean and used in actual scientific research. One benefit of the program is the opportunity to get kids out into nature where they can be active and forge a connection with the animals around them. The citizen science component, learning to identify birds and enter them into eBird, also teaches kids that their observations can help scientists learn more about topics like bird migration.
Workshop participants Portia Sweeting (Bahamas National Trust), Sabrina Compton (Grenada Fund for Conservation and ECO), and Scott Johnson (Bahamas National Trust) spot and ID birds on one of the field trips. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Of course, many teachers and students may feel they don’t have enough experience with birds to teach this curriculum. One key component of the program is training the teachers and students to observe and identify birds. They learn to do this by observing physical characteristics, but also by looking at behavior, habitat and what birds are found in the area. The program also shows that we often know more about birds that we think. Almost everyone can already distinguish a duck from a seagull or an egret.
“The BirdSleuth training workshop was hands down the best training experience I’ve had to date,” commented Falon Cartwright, Preserve Manager for the Bahamas National Trust Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve in Eleuthera, Bahamas. “The curriculum is well designed, thorough, and super engaging and the level of organization and expertise demonstrated by our facilitators made the three days an absolute pleasure. I am so excited to use the BirdSleuth curriculum to encourage young people in Eleuthera to learn about and value our local birds.”
Israel Guzman (Sociedad Ornitológica Puertorriqueña Inc., Puerto Rico) had this to say: “Birds Caribbean, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the Bahamas National Trust teamed up to bring us one of the best workshops ever. Learning by doing and sharing experiences made us all get the most from this workshop based on the BirdSleuth Curriculum. The whole experience will be replicated to provide students with the right tools to reconnect them to nature, and lead them to love and care about birds and conservation.”
Educators navigate hazards during the Migration Obstacles Game (Lesson 6). (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Birds are a powerful tool to help kids and people of all ages connect with nature and develop a conservation mentality. Birds are fantastic ambassadors for nature because they are found everywhere, easy to see and identify and endlessly fascinating. Studying birds is a great tool for encouraging interest in both science and in the outdoors. Collaborative activities like many of the ones in the BirdSleuth program also help kids learn teamwork and cooperation skills.
We thank the Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act Fund of the US Fish and Wildlife Service, International Programs of the US Forest Service, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, Optics for the Tropics, Franklin Dodd Communications, Tropical Shipping, and Vortex Optics for funding and support of the BirdSleuth Caribbean Project. The Wildlife Without Borders program of the US Fish and Wildlife Service provided funding for the pilot project to develop the BIrdSleuth Caribbean curriculum. We also thank the Bahamas National Trust for hosting our International Training Workshop and our many partners and educators for participating in the project and doing an amazing job training teachers and educating youth in their home countries.
28 participants from 23 different countries/islands participated in the BIrdSleuth Caribbean International Training Workshop, November 2014, Nassau, Bahamas.
A group of high school students at Black River who participated in the 2-day bird-science education program, with Drs. Leo Douglas and Lisa Sorenson. (Photo by Chris Colyard)
Last week 430 high school students from the parishes of Manchester, St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland participated in the second year of the first ever long-term study of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors towards birds, and indeed the natural environment in the Western Hemisphere on the island of Jamaica.
A majority of these students had spent two days with four of the leading Ph.Ds. specializing in Caribbean bird and environmental conservation one year before, including Leo Douglas, Herlitz Davis, Luke Powell and Lisa Sorenson. These 2014 activities included both workshops and field-based programs using BirdSleuth Caribbean curriculum. Field activities focused on the Font Hill Nature Reserve (St. Elizabeth) an area threatened because of natural gas/peat fuel development and exploitation. On the field day students experienced first-hand scientists catching and studying migratory and native wild Jamaican birds with specially manufactured “mist-nets.” Students also witnessed forest destruction and marine turtle nests ravaged by invasive mongoose, and discussed the visible evidence of the rapid coastal-beach erosion within the context of climate change in the Caribbean.
Students from Natalia and Bishop Gibson High School. (Photo by Chris Colyard)
This BirdsCaribbean project is funded and supported by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, University of the West Indies and the Government of Jamaica to work in 13 randomly selected rural high schools. The multi-year program has been collecting data on the mechanisms through which Caribbean youth learn about the natural world, their beliefs about the positives or negatives of wildlife conservation, and how such beliefs might be improved through culturally-sensitive engaging programs and first-hand nature experiences.
The lead organization, BirdsCaribbean, is the largest single organization devoted to wildlife conservation in the Caribbean now in its 27th year of operation to promote Caribbean nature conservation. The Caribbean is ranked among the top five areas on the planet for biodiversity conservation – primarily because of the region’s unique native plants and birds and the many threats they face. Thirty-one birds are found on the island of Jamaica and nowhere else on the planet – a significant number more than any other of the region’s islands. A central part of the intervention will document knowledge and attitudes towards native Jamaican wild birds.
Dr. Leo Douglas, President of BirdsCaribbean and researcher in the Department of Geography/Geology at the University of the West Indies, Mona, describes the initiative as ground-breaking in its purpose and findings. Douglas said that while students were relatively well informed about the threat of rodent diseases, such as Leptospirosis, they were almost entirely unaware of the uniqueness or value of native plants and animals. “Almost all students entering the program had no idea that there were birds found only on Jamaica, or that birds were able to fly across the sea to get to Jamaica to spend the winter.” Douglas noted that he was pleased to learn that after one year many participating students had taken the initiative to bird-watch, conduct projects, or speak with family and friends about birds and their conservation, all on their own initiative.
DeCarteret College Students release a bird. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Participating students described the program’s experiences as nothing but life altering in what they now knew and understood about the uniqueness, threats to, and values of plants and animals that were around them, especially birds.
One student from DeCarterate College described her experience this way:
“Hearing about what was happening to the birds and their habitats made me upset. Things like illegal trafficking – it reminded me of slavery; deforestation – imagine how beautiful it used to look; pollution – terrible! I hate it! In general I never knew much about birds. I can’t help thinking of all I have learnt and will learn.”
Post intervention in-depth interviews revealed that students generally bemoaned the lack of awareness about wildlife and nature conservation within the broader society and lauded the fact that they had been privileged to learn through the BirdsCaribbean bird-science experience program.
Douglas will follow the students for another two years to determine whether the observed changes in knowledge and attitudes are longer-term and what effects they may have on their personal and school-education choices, if any.
DeCarteret College Students learn about birds. (Photo by Leo Douglas)
The study builds on the observance of a month-long region-wide festival focussed on endemic birds called the Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival (CEBF), celebrated for one month in spring by volunteer coordinators throughout the Caribbean. The theme for 2014 was “Why Birds Matter.” The purpose of the month-long festival is to increase public awareness of the region’s exceptionally rich and threatened bird life. After humble beginnings, the festival has grown consistently over the last 13 years and now attracts almost 100,000 Caribbean participants annually from 20+ island-nations. The CEBF has been described as an unprecedented initiative of regional unification about biodiversity, bird conservation and awareness by leading international conservation organizations, such as the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
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. 
