The Purple-throated Carib is endemic to a handful of islands in the Lesser Antilles. (Photo by Barbara and Frank Lilievre)
Being one of only two Eulampis species (a genus endemic to the Caribbean), the Purple-throated Carib adds endemic sparkle to the rainforest and cloud forest habitats of the Lesser Antilles. This large (it’s the largest hummingbird in the Caribbean!), brilliantly plumaged hummingbird is also closely associated with two species of native heliconia.
The Purple-throated Carib will visit feeders and cultivated landscape plants for a sweet drink of nectar, making it a familiar and quite spectacular sight for many in the Lesser Antilles. However, the Carib’s Birds of the World (BOW) account, which was previously just a short article last revised in 2018, provided only basic information which did not reflect the present state of scholarship and knowledge of the species.
Enter Dr. Ethan Temeles
A biology professor at Amherst College (MA, USA), Dr. Temeles has spent 8 field seasons in St. Lucia, and 17 field seasons in Dominica researching the Purple-throated Carib, making him the perfect candidate to revise and update its species account for Birds of the World. He connected with BirdsCaribbean staff at the American Ornithological Society/BirdsCaribbean conference held in Puerto Rico in 2022, and learned of the opportunity to contribute as an author for Birds of the World.
Purple-throated Carib drinking nectar from a banana flower in Guadeloupe. (Photo by Brian Sullivan ML 89366011)
Professor Temeles measures the length of a hummingbird’s beak using a caliper. (Photo by Amherst College)
Female Purple-throated Carib. (Photo by Tadas Jucys)
Dr Temeles eagerly took on the work of updating the species account with the latest science—including much of his own original research from 20 years of field work! He used the opportunity of lighter academic duties in the summer to synthesize his own and others’ work on the species.
Plumage Particulars, Population Data…and Partitioning of Flower Resources!
Thanks to the passionate work of Dr Temeles and his collaborators, the account has been greatly enriched in this 2024 update. It now includes detailed information about plumages, diet, and intriguingly, the sexual partitioning of flower resources. Dr Temeles also discusses the impact of Hurricane Maria (a deadly Category 5 hurricane that devastated 17 Caribbean islands in 2017) and other conservation concerns for the species. If you are from the Caribbean, learn how you can access all the scholarly resources on Birds of the World for FREE here.
The Birds of the World species account for the Purple-throated Carib has been significantly expanded in this update.
Editors at Birds of the World worked with Dr. Temeles and Macaulay Library resources to add a wide variety of photographs to the account—including many that will help with field identification. Even at a sizable five inches long, without perfect lighting the species often appears completely black except for its dazzling emerald green wings. Photographs of the Carib’s microhabitats, as well as videos and photographs showing its foraging behavior, are now also newly linked to the species account, demonstrating the powerful nature of integrating the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s online resources.
Dr. Temeles is still teaching biology and environmental studies classes at Amherst, and took a break from grading Intro Biology exams to finalize the publication. He enthused, ”I’m delighted to share my 20+ years of field work on this species with readers of Birds of the World, and hope that others will be inspired to study and answer some of the questions for future research presented in this account of a truly spectacular hummingbird.”
Of his experience as an author he added, “Working with the Birds of the World and BirdsCaribbean staff was great and their editorial expertise was amazing.”
Visit this page to access our free Purple-throated Carib coloring page and other educational activities.
Do you work with a Caribbean bird species, or are you interested in contributing to a Caribbean species account? We are always on the lookout for authors! Find out more or contact Caroline Pott (carolinepott@birdscaribbean.org) for more information regarding a species of interest.
The BirdsCaribbean-Cornell Lab of Ornithology partnership that produced this updated account also provides Birds of the World access for FREE to Caribbean-based IP addresses!
Ecotour Guide Geneile Robinson flashes a brilliant smile with her new gear on the first day of the Turks and Caicos Islands Caribbean Birding Trail Workshop! (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
The Caribbean Birding Trail(CBT) is a flagship BirdsCaribbean program. The CBT recognizes that the traditional tourism model has been a source of environmental exploitation and degradation in the Caribbean. The CBT’s goal is to shape a Caribbean where tourism truly benefits Caribbean people and habitats, by instead harnessing tourism as a force for conservation and sustainable economic development.
Globally, the tourism market for wildlife watching and wildlife photography is growing, and bird tourism is a significant part of this market. CBT seeks to attract these markets to the wider Caribbean. Integral to this is having well-trained guides who can help connect ecotourism travelers with the cultural and natural resources of the islands, creating meaningful and authentic experiences. In October 2023, our CBT team headed to the Turks and Caicos Islands, where we partnered with the Turks and Caicos National Trust, to deliver a week-long training program to equip twenty-four new birding guides with the skills needed to support a sustainable tourism market in TCI that focuses on birds, nature, and heritage. Passionate and ocean-loving Ecotour Guide, Geneile Robinson, shares her workshop experience in this reflective and insightful piece.
I am constantly looking for ways to expand my knowledge of the world, especially of the environment that I work in and benefit from, that’s why when I learned that my company, Big Blue Collective—a luxury boating and watersports company located in Providenciales—had made it possible for me to attend the Caribbean Birding Trail Workshop, I was excited! Despite not knowing what to expect, I felt that the first day could not come soon enough.
When the first day came, I was so nervous and the anticipation was killing me! I had no idea what or who to expect—however, despite all of these thoughts, I was pleasantly surprised. Meeting the facilitators, Lisa Sorenson, Holly Robertson, Rick Morales, and Beny Wilson, was the start to an incredible week of learning—not just about birds and the CBT, but also about environmental interpretation, my own environment, and the treasures that we have here in the Turks and Caicos.
The adventure begins! Geneile looks at seabirds through a spotting scope at Blue Hills Jetty at the end of day one. Geneile said, “I saw the potential of what bird watching could come to mean for me—going out with a group of like-minded individuals, and spending time in nature observing and learning about these beautiful animals.” (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
New binoculars bring a fresh perspective!
On the first morning of the intensive five-day training, we were asked what we hoped to get out of the workshop—what was our purpose for being there? There were 28 people in our group, and no one gave the exact same answer twice. Even so, at the end of the workshop, everyone had gotten what they’d come there for!
One of the first of many gifts we received during the week was a pair of binoculars; to this day I cherish them so much. Even more valuable to me was the detailed instructions we received on how to use them, as well as how to clean and preserve them. I thrive on detailed verbal instructions, and so I greatly appreciated the time that was spent by our instructors making sure that we understood what we were learning, and encouraging us to ask questions.
After our first field trip to Wheeland Pond, which I now know is a nature reserve and birding hotspot in Providenciales, I was a changed woman! I saw the potential of what bird watching could come to mean for me—going out with a group of like-minded individuals, and spending time in nature observing and learning about these beautiful animals.
Geneile taking her new binoculars for a spin!
What was that we spotted? Geneile consults her Birds of the West Indies field guide for bird ID support! (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
Along the trail we go! Wheeland Pond brought lessons, excitement and wonderful possibilities! (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
Facilitator Venecio “Beny” Wilson talks shorebird ID with the group at Wheeland Pond.
Black-necked Stilts at Wheeland Pond proved to be a crowd favorite! (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Spotted! A Killdeer at Wheeland Pond stands out with its distinctive plumage. (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Unexpected IDs—When bird identification becomes a breeze, and friends become family!
Field trips took us all over the island—to different spots where we found so many different birds, and each day improved our bird ID skills. Begrudgingly, I admit that the quizzes that Dr. Sorenson created were very helpful as well. On the 2nd day of the workshop we had our first quiz, and out of 12, I got only 6 or 7 correct, so around 50%. By the 2nd quiz, just two days later—I had gotten all 12 birds right! Through these quizzes, I could really see how I was improving.
Even when inside of the classroom, there was still fun to be had; I had not realized how amazing it would feel to be in a room filled with people who were just as concerned with the conservation of nature as I was. Everyone had the same agenda, and it was beautiful. Quite literally, I had started out just looking for friends, and had found family! Unbeknownst to us, the two people sitting next to me in class were actually related to me—cousins! One from my mom’s side, and one from my dad’s.
Beny leads the group along the Bird Rock Point Trail. Several field trips throughout the week allowed participants to get acquainted with TCI’s best birding sites! (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
It’s pop quiz time! Can you ID the shorebirds in this photo taken by facilitator Venecio Wilson at Wheeland Pond? Comment your answers!
The group discusses field marks and bird ID. (It was a Blackpoll Warbler!)
A TCI near-endemic, this female Bahama Woodstar was such a joy to spot! (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Class is in session! 24 participants from a range of backgrounds formed our CBT TCI cohort.
This Northern Mockingbird delighted us by offering a wonderfully clear view as it perched on a dry branch along the Bird Rock Point Trail. (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Birds, blooms, and backyard biodiversity—TCIs endemic wonders ignite the Conservation spark!
Our local experts, for example, botanist Bryan Naqqi Manco, also proved to share just as, and sometimes even more, surprising information than those with the CBT—mostly because they taught us about what we have right in our own backyards! Learning that we have so many endemic species, no matter how small they are, produces a powerful drive to protect them. Even now, I am constantly telling my coworkers about endemics that they never knew existed!
Bryan Naqqi Manco left everyone riveted by his fascinating presentation on TCI’s Endemic Flora and Fauna! (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Speaking of TCI endemics—this Caicos Pygmy Boa showed up at our very next field trip as if on cue! (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Facilitator Rick Morales demonstrates how to deliver an effective Interpretive talk to the class. (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
Early morning birding! Geneile is awash in the golden sunrise as she enjoys the antics of Great Egrets at the Provo Golf Club—we had special permission to visit one early morning. (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
Ruddy Turnstones are stark against the turquoise blue of TCI’s waters. (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Now just turn a little to the right for the camera! This American Kestrel delighted everyone by calmly offering a clear, close view as we marveled at its gorgeous plumage. (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Personally, I had gone to become a better guide—I am an ecotour guide by trade, and I already knew about many things relating to our coastal and marine habitats—but birds were virtually uncharted territory for me, so I wanted to expand my knowledge. The CBT workshop has helped me to achieve this, and so much more! It was nothing short of inspiring. It also lit a fire under me to educate others about our unique and special environment, and it moved me to seize every opportunity to work with other conservationists in the country.
I made so many people jealous when I told them what they had missed—more than anything, I hope that the opportunity comes again for the Caribbean Birding trail to visit the Turks and Caicos!
Introducing newly certified Bird Guide, Geneile Robinson! Geneile poses for a shot with Caribbean Birding Trail facilitators (from L to R) Rick Morales, Holly Robertson, Lisa Sorenson, and Venecio Wilson, as she receives her Certificate of Completion.
Geneile Robinson has a deep passion for the ocean, and its many habitats and inhabitants. Hailing from Providenciales, Turks and Caicos, Geneile shares her love of the sea with visitors to Provo through her work as an Ecotour Guide for Big Blue Collective—a luxury boating and watersports company in Providenciales. Follow Geneile’s adventures on Instagram!
Acknowledgements: The CBT Interpretive Guide Training was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors and local partners. These include the Sandals Foundation, the Turks and Caicos National Trust, Darwin Plus Initiative, the Turks and Caicos Department of Environment and Coastal Resources, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, Marshall Reynolds Foundation, Shika Shika, US Forest Service International Programs, and Vortex Optics.
The TCI CBT Interpretive Guide training is the seventh training to be carried out by BirdsCaribbean. Previous trainings have been held in Grenada, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Bonaire, Cuba, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. These guide trainings are integral to advancing the vision of the CBT—connecting people to the extraordinary places, diverse cultures, and people of each island. Through the CBT, we promote natural and authentic experiences that benefit local people and encourage the protection of the Caribbean’s natural resources, including birds and their habitats.
*Interpretation is a purposeful approach to communication that facilitates meaningful, relevant, and inclusive experiences that deepen understanding, broaden perspectives, and inspire engagement with the world around us. (National Association of Interpretation).
Holly Garrod, BirdsCaribbean’s Caribbean Bird Banding Program Coordinator
One of the issues that the birding community has been working on for the last several years is how we can be more welcoming and inclusive of all birders—beginner birders and future potential birders—to join us and share the joy of birding. It’s an issue to which passionate birders, Hannah Buschert, and her husband Erik, have given a great deal of thought, and which led to the creation of Women Birders (Happy Hour) podcast.
Their ‘happy hour’ podcast is dedicated to broadcasting the lived experiences of women, from diverse backgrounds, who love birds. And of course, it’s not happy hour without cocktails! For each episode, Hannah delights us with a unique, bird-inspired alcoholic concoction based on a species mentioned in the interview!
BirdsCaribbean’s Caribbean Bird Banding Coordinator, and everyone’s favorite certified bird banding trainer, Holly Garrod, chats with Hannah about everything from her early birding days, advice for budding conservationists, exploring new birding locations, connecting to people through birds and fighting female stereotypes in conservation in this insightful episode! Holly has a B.Sc. in Applied Vertebrate Ecology and Zoology with a minor in Business from Humboldt State University and an M.Sc. in Biology from Villanova. Her master’s research focused on the two todies of Hispaniola, which is how Holly got her start in the Caribbean.
The Narrow-billed Tody, showing its bright pink sides. (Photo by Alberto Rojas)
Holly Garrod bands a Broad-billed Tody in the Dominican Republic for her M.Sc. thesis research.
The Broad-billed Tody (locally known as the Barrancoli for its habit of nesting in burrows) earned its name by having the broadest bill of all 5 tody species. (Photo by Dax Roman E.)
After her studies, Holly spent one year running the Jama Coaque Bird Observatory in Ecuador, and two and a half years running the Costa Rica Bird Observatories banding program. Holly was certified as a North American Banding Council (NABC) trainer in 2011 following her training at Humboldt Bay Bird Observatory. Since then, Holly has worked on banding projects throughout the US and Latin America. She has led multiple workshops throughout Latin America and helped with NABC certification sessions in both English and Spanish. As Caribbean Bird Banding Coordinator, Holly is working with our Caribbean partners to create a unified bird banding program for the region called the Caribbean Bird Banding Network.
Holly Garrod bands a Cuban Pygmy-Owl. (Photo by Daniela Ventura)
Coming together to learn. Holly teaches the group about molt. (Photo by Maya Wilson)
At the banding table, Daniela Ventura studies banding data sheets with Juan Carlos Fernández and Alcides Morales-Pérez. In the background, Holly holds a bird bag carrying the next-to-be-processed bird.
Grab yourself a drink (might we suggest Hannah’s Hybrid Tody cocktail below?), kick back, and settle into happy hour with Hannah and Holly! It’s an inspiring podchat about the mentors and experiences that helped shape her career in bird conservation, documenting the Hybrid Tody in the Dominican Republic, communicating science to motivate conservation action, and issues of blondeness in the birding community.
Enjoy!
Listen
Choose your preferred podcast platform to listen to Holly’s interview by clicking this Buzzsprout link.
Delight your taste buds with this Hybrid Tody (not toddy!) cocktail
Ingredients
1 ½ oz Brugal Anejo
4 fresh raspberries
4 fresh strawberries
½ oz lime juice
½ oz simple syrup
Ice
Directions
1. Fill cocktail shaker with ice 2. Add rum, raspberries and strawberries 3. Pour in lime juice and simple syrup 4. Shake shake shake 5. Strain into glass
Captain Levardo Talbot in the field, enjoying and immersed in every moment. (photo by Christel Mohammed)
At the core of its ethos, the Caribbean Birding Trail (CBT) emphatically asserts that we can unify conservation with enterprise, to shape a Caribbean where tourism is harnessed as a force for environmental preservation and sustainable development. The true champions of this work, however, are local guides who use their passion for conservation to reimagine the tourism industry—delivering thoughtful, authentic ecotourism where conservation is at the heart of the offer. The Caribbean Birding Trail supports sustainable livelihoods by training guides to enter the birding market and connect travelers with the cultural and natural resources of their islands.
In this beautifully written, richly illustrative piece, third-generation mariner, Captain Levardo Talbot, a member of our recently concluded CBT Turks and Caicos Islands Guide Training, takes us on a journey through his workshop experience. It’s a thoughtful, passionate, and enjoyable read.
In the heart of the Turks & Caicos, where the confluence of sea and sun paints a canvas of natural wonder, a profound metamorphosis transpired—a narrative that intertwined the intricate art of birding with the expertise of an established fisherman. This account chronicles my immersive training along the Caribbean Birding Trail, a journey marked by the threads of learning, discovery, and an unexpected synthesis between the avian realm and the tranquility of fishing.
The workshop wasn’t merely a training exercise; it served as an initiation into nature’s vibrant symphony, where the diverse avian species painted the skies with their vivid hues. The genesis of this transformative experience lay in the field, amongst the verdant canopy, where binoculars, spotting scopes, and the guidance of seasoned instructors converged to unveil the secrets of the avian world. These mentors acted as custodians of this rich paradise, offering insights that transcended the confines of conventional birding guides.
A Yellow-crowned Night Heron hidden in the mangroves; by looking and listening carefully, I was now tuned into and learning the secrets of the avian world. (photo by Beny Wilson)
An immersive journey of discovery
The most captivating segment of this training lay in the hands-on interaction, where theoretical knowledge metamorphosed into practical understanding. The binoculars became an extension of my vision, while the instructions from the mentors served as a compass in navigating the world of fluttering wings. Each avian call and chirp acquired a distinctiveness, a signature that bespoke a particular species. The spotting scopes, far from mere tools of assistance, provided a vantage point from which to witness the intricate ballet of the avian populace.
Levardo consults his field guide. (photo by Christel Mohammed)
We heard the distinctive whistling call of the Easter Wood-Pewee, pee-ooo-eeeeeee. (photo by Beny Wilson)
Black-bellied Plover and Ruddy Turnstones in winter plumage along our coastline. (photo by Beny Wilson)
Intently focused on the bird! (photo by Christel Mohammed)
Learning to identify shorebirds and seabirds was akin to deciphering a language that spoke of the ebb and flow of tides. My perspective of the mangrove habitat underwent a profound transformation; it ceased to be a mere collection of trees, emerging instead as a bustling nexus of interconnected life. Birds ceased to be solitary creatures and transformed into threads intricately woven into the tapestry of the ecosystem. Their profound connection to the art of fishing, previously overlooked, unfolded like a treasure trove—the symbiotic relationship between birds and the craft of angling.
Beautiful American Flamingos enjoying a rain shower on Flamingo Pond, North Caicos. (photo by Beny Wilson)
A fisherman’s perspective, transformed
This newfound insight not only allowed for a deeper appreciation of the environment but also served to enhance my business. My fly fishing guests were no longer mere visitors; they transformed into eager students, seeking a profound understanding of the ecosystem in which they found themselves immersed. The knowledge gleaned during the workshop became not merely a personal asset but a jewel in my arsenal to educate and enthrall my guests, offering them a deeper insight into the serene habitat that served as the haven for their fishing pursuits.
Levardo, Dodly, and Junel (aka Flash) flash a smile on Bird Rock Point Trail. (photo by Lisa Sorenson)
The art and fun of birding. (photo by Christel Mohammed)
Birds were in abundance at Provo Golf Club (we received special permission for this visit). (photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Estefania, Morgan, and crew spotting birds at—Provo Golf Club—we had special permission to visit one early morning. (photo by Christel Mohammed)
Yellow Warblers flitting in the trees and bushes were always fun to spot. (photo by Beny Wilson)
Unexpectedly, birding became an integral component of my business. The tranquil surroundings, once the exclusive stage for the art of fishing, now welcomed a new ensemble—the diverse and vibrant birdlife. The peaceful habitat ceased to serve solely as a backdrop; it assumed the role of a supporting actor, contributing to the overall experience of my esteemed guests.
With each outing, a new chapter unfolded. The pelicans diving gracefully into the waters, the gulls soaring across the cerulean sky, and the herons standing poised in patient elegance—all became integral parts of the narrative. The guests no longer arrived solely for the thrill of fishing; they sought an immersive journey where angling intertwined with the enchantment of avian life.
Laughing Gull in flight. (photo by Michael Stubblefield ML598441931)
Brown Pelican diving for a fish meal. (photo by Cin Ty Lee-ML611680163)
The regal Great Blue Heron. (photo by David Rayner)
As the sun dipped beneath the horizon, casting the sky in hues of orange and purple, my guests departed not merely with prized catches but with an experience that transcended the mere act of reeling in fish. They left as custodians of newfound wisdom, carrying not just memories of a successful fishing trip but an appreciation for the delicate balance between the feathered denizens and the serenity that enfolded the mangroves.
A natural blending of fishing and birds
The Caribbean Bird Trail Workshop was more than a training exercise; it was a threshold into a realm where the subtleties of nature became an integral facet of my daily pursuits. The art of birding transcended the pages of a guidebook, embedding itself into the fabric of my business, enriching the experiences I offer. The serene habitat, where the symphony of birds harmonized with the tranquility of fishing, evolved into my stage, and each guest, an active participant in this mesmerizing performance.
The journey had only just commenced—a voyage where the convergence of birding and fishing continues to unravel new chapters, each more captivating than the last.
In 1904, Capt. Levardo Talbot’s grandfather, Theophilus Talbot, arrived on Salt Cay. Talbot’s Adventures provides professional and memorable experiences to tourists and locals alike. Captain Levardo Talbot, hailing from a family with a strong maritime background, leads the company with a mission to promote environmental awareness, preserve historical value, ensure safe and respectful access to one of the world’s most beautiful sea parks, and contribute to the region’s sustainable growth. Levardo’s dedication to preserving the islands’ history and culture is evident through his work as a Marine Conservation Officer and his involvement in groundbreaking research that uncovered details of the Trouvadore slave ship,which may have significantly impacted the heritage of the afro-Caribbean population of Turks & Caicos and The Bahamas. Talbot’s Adventures takes pride in safeguarding and sharing with guests one of the most breathtaking marine spaces on the planet; undoubtedly a treasure to behold.
Acknowledgements: The CBT Interpretive Guide Training was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors and local partners. These include the Sandals Foundation, the Turks and Caicos National Trust, Darwin Plus Initiative, the Turks and Caicos Department of Environment and Coastal Resources, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, Marshall Reynolds Foundation, Shika Shika, US Forest Service International Programs, and Vortex Optics.
The TCI CBT Interpretive* Guide training is the seventh training to be carried out by BirdsCaribbean. Previous trainings have been held in Grenada, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Bonaire, Cuba, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. These guide trainings are integral to advancing the vision of the CBT—connecting people to the extraordinary places, diverse cultures, and people of each island. Through the CBT, we promote natural and authentic experiences that benefit local people and encourage the protection of the Caribbean’s natural resources, including birds and their habitats.
*Interpretation is a purposeful approach to communication that facilitates meaningful, relevant, and inclusive experiences that deepen understanding, broaden perspectives, and inspire engagement with the world around us. (National Association of Interpretation).
“A veritable mecca for waterbirds and shorebirds.” “One of the most important areas for wintering Piping Plovers in the entire Caribbean.” Those are not exactly the mental images that come to mind when one thinks about tourism in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI)—you would be forgiven for instead immediately conjuring visions of sun, sea, and brilliant white sand—but indeed, this incredible Caribbean biodiversity hotspot offers so much more! Thanks to the Caribbean Birding Trail, and 24 passionate, newly certified bird guides trained to bring the hidden side of TCI to the ever-expanding birding tourism market, this image is about to change. It’s time to meet the Turks and Caicos that only insiders know—and the guides who will make booking a birding tour a quintessential part of the TCI experience.
Sun, sea, sand, and …sublime salt ponds?
The natural beauty of the Turks and Caicos Islands is reflected in the nation’s tourism motto “Beautiful by Nature,” and indeed, no superlative feels adequate to effectively capture its wondrous magic. TCI’s coastlines immediately standout as being the textbook definition of idyllic. The powdery white sand is flecked with coral pinks, whilst the water offers mesmerizing combinations of electric blue and turquoise. Look further and feast your eyes on the islands’ other defining features—a range of fantastic wetlands including picturesque salinas and salt ponds, submerged mangroves, miles and miles of tidal flats and sand banks; intriguing limestone caves; and verdantly green dry tropical forests.
Located on Middle Caicos, Indian Cave is a large and beautiful single gallery cave with many openings and skylights.
Tangles of red mangrove prop roots at Wheeland Pond. This extensive wetland is a haven for birdlife and a true shorebirder’s delight!
Like something out of a dream! The view at the end of Bird Rock Point Trail is incomparable.
Whitby Salina on North Caicos. When you think of salt ponds, you might immediately associate them with waterbirds, but the surrounding scrub and woodland in these areas provide essential habitats for a myriad of other types of birds! We spotted 10 migratory Blackpoll Warblers using the area to rest and refuel before continuing on their epic journeys south.
Bird Rock Point Trail is especially exciting for the range of habitats one traverses along the path. Terrain here is mixed between low limestone bluffs, mangrove waterways, and tidal marine marshes.
Spend some time contemplating this rich tapestry of blues and greens, and in many-splendored flashes of stunning purples, deep reds, sunny yellows, and intensely-pigmented pinks, the real secret of these environments will be revealed—their biodiversity! Glittering hummingbirds, flamboyant flamingos and darting yellow warblers—TCI’s various ecosystems provide critical habitats for a grand diversity of birds. Resident herons, egrets, shorebirds, ducks, seabirds, and landbirds are common sights at TCI’s wetlands. In addition to the islands’ surface area being made up of over 50% wetlands, the country can boast of being home to the largest island in the West Indies undisturbed by humans. TCI’s ecosystems are also a crucial lifeline for winter migrants who can often be easily observed busily attending to the vital business of eating, eating, eating, (and resting!) to refuel their bodies to carry on in their southward migration.
TCI’s extensive wetlands provide essential refuge for Near Threatened Piping Plovers during migration – this flock was spotted feeding on South Caicos. (Photo by Craig Watson)
Reddish Egret, dark morph. (Photo by Elaine R Wilson)
Blackpoll Warbler, female. These warblers were everywhere, migrating and stopping over in TCI in October and early November to rest and feed. (Photo by Hemant Keshan)
Bahama Woodstar, male. The Bahama Woodstar can only be found on the Turks and Caicos Islands and The Bahamas! This near-endemic can be easily spotted in a range of habitats around TCI. (Photo by Keith Salveson)
Flamingo Pond is a must-visit spot for American Flamingo lovers! Depending on the time of the year, flocks at this wetland on North Caicos can number in the thousands!
A match made in Heaven—Sustainable Economic Development meets Biodiversity Protection—in thoughtful, authentic ecotourism where conservation is at heart of the offer
While the TCI Government has designated significant areas for conservation, the full potential of these areas for ecotourism has yet to be tapped. The TCI tourism community has not fully recognized the benefits that nature conservation can bring. The industry is currently focused on high-end/luxury travelers on the main inhabited island of Providenciales; the other inhabited islands of North and Middle Caicos, Grand Turk, South Caicos, and Salt Cay have not benefited from the massive and continued growth of tourism. Away from Providenciales, there are currently limited employment and business opportunities, unless these take the form of large-scale developments with their attendant negative impacts on the natural environment and cultural heritage. New employment opportunities, compatible with natural resource conservation, are urgently needed.
It was against this backdrop of this untapped opportunity for development, the drive to protect TCI’s tremendous biodiversity—and the potential to marry these seemingly competing areas in a way that empowered the TCI community by supporting truly sustainable livelihoods, that the Caribbean Birding Trail (CBT), set its focus on the Turks and Caicos Islands in late 2023. The CBT is a flagship program of BirdsCaribbean that emphatically recognizes that we can unify conservation with business to shape a Caribbean where tourism is harnessed as a force for environmental preservation and sustainable development, rather than the exploitation and degradation of habitats.
BirdsCaribbean Executive Director, Dr. Lisa Sorenson explains, “Globally, the tourism market for wildlife watching and wildlife photography is growing, and bird tourism is a significant part of this market. In the US, the 2022 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation lists the national bird watching audience at a whopping 96.3 million citizens—a segment that has grown dramatically in the last few years and continues on an upward trend; while in the UK, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) claims that around 6 million United Kingdom residents are regularly engaged in birdwatching. The Caribbean Birding Trail seeks to attract these markets to the Turks and Caicos Islands and the wider Caribbean. Integral to this is having well-trained guides who can help connect ecotourism travelers with the cultural and natural resources of the islands, creating meaningful and authentic experiences.”
A dynamic team of trainers, bearing birding gifts!
Boat Captains, Ecotour Guides, Educators, Journalists, Media Professionals, Government Officers, Policy Makers and more! Our Caribbean Birding Trail, Turks and Caicos Isands cohort featured a diverse group, all connected by their passion for meaningful, sustainable tourism and nature conservation in TCI. Participants and Facilitators pose for a shot at Wheeland Pond. Twenty people were from TCI, three from The Bahamas, and one from Puerto Rico. (photo by Christel Mohammed)
The intensive five-day workshop was led by Dr Lisa Sorenson, certified interpretive trainers from the National Association of Interpretation (NAI), Venicio (Beny) Wilson and Rick Morales, and CBT Project Leader, Holly Robertson. Participants explored the importance of preserving the Turks and Caicos Islands’ birds and nature while strengthening the islands’ local ecotourism sector. Modules included the Basics of Bird ID Techniques, which examined size and shape, field marks, behavior, habitat, and birdsongs; How to Use Binoculars and Spotting Scopes; Avian Ecology; and Guiding and Interpretation Techniques.
Of course, you can’t go birding without your gear—and on day one of the course, Executive Director Lisa Sorenson closed her introductory Birding 101 session with the most wonderful surprise! All participants received a comprehensive and thoughtfully curated package which included Vortex binoculars, a Birds of the West Indies field guide, bird ID cards, a CBT hat, an endemic birds of the Caribbean bag, and many other resources. BirdsCaribbean ensured that new guides had all the tools they needed to support them on their burgeoning birding guide journeys. One participant exclaimed, “It’s like Christmas!! This is amazing!”
Class is in session! BirdsCaribbean Executive Director, Dr Lisa Sorenson, takes participants through the basics of bird ID techniques.
New gear! Ecotour Guide Geneile Robinson flashes a smile with an array of items from her CBT gift package.
Naturalist and Journalist Easher Parker spotted in the field with our handy BirdsCaribbean Wetland and Seabirds field ID cards.
Thanks to our partnership with Vortex Optics and the generous sponsorship of Sandals Foundation, all participants received a brand-new pair of binoculars! The best part? These specs come with an awesome lifetime-warranty, so our cohort will be birding with them for a long time!
All hands on deck! BirdsCaribbean’s Executive Director, Dr Lisa Sorenson, and President, Dr Adrianna Tossas, help assemble gift packages for the CBT TCI participants.
Out of the classroom and into the field!
Armed with a host of new bird ID skills, new binoculars and an enviable collection of field ID cards and guides—there was only one place left to go for our excited cohort—absolutely everywhere! Each day of training featured field trips to the best and most accessible birding sites on Providenciales, giving participants ample opportunity to learn and practice bird ID, benefit from practical in-the-field training from Beny and Rick on guiding techniques, and to familiarize themselves with the Turks and Caicos Islands’ top birding spots.
Our first spot, Wheeland Pond, easily became a crowd favorite thanks to a flock of resident Black-necked Stilts who greeted us with elegant poses on each of our visits there. Wheeland Pond is a wetland which provides excellent habitat for both breeding and migratory shorebirds, with resident and migratory North American songbirds using the surrounding scrub and woodland. Its complex system of natural saline ponds and manmade water-filled pits, a haven for birdlife, provided participants with great opportunities to practice distinguishing between tricky shorebirds (and mastering some easier ones thanks to enthusiastic Ruddy Turnstones and Killdeer) and even trickier fall-plumaged warblers (we spotted 8 different species!). Wheeland also provided one of the week’s most exciting birding moments for participants—a rare sighting of the elusive and shy Sora! Everyone was lining up at the scopes to get a look at this bird and its striking yellow bill!
Into the wild! The group heads along the Wheeland Pond trail on our very first CBT TCI field trip! (This was one of many field trips over the week – allowing for hand-on on practice with the theory discussed in the classroom.)
Was that a Stilt Sandpiper? Lisa sets up a spotting scope so that we could all further investigate and learn more about field marks for this tricky group on birds. (Also, yes it was!)
Wheeland Pond’s resident Black-necked Stilts! With their striking black and white plumage, and bright bubblegum-pink legs, these stilts were our unofficial Wheeland Pond welcoming party! (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Cape May Warbler – adult female or immature male. We saw a great variety of warblers on our field trips – they are especially challenging this time of year since males are in their nonbreeding /fall plumage. This lovely bird was photographed by our facilitator, Beny Wilson.!
A sight for Sora eyes! Getting a clear view of a bird with a reputation for being heard far more often that it is seen caused an understandable stir among participants and trainers alike! (Photo by Shell Game)
With its two distinctive black chest bands, the Killdeer was one of the first shorebirds that the group learned to easily ID. (Photo by Lorie Shell)
Always consult your field guide! Sure, the Killdeer might be easy to ID, but what do you do when faced with a group of Stilt Sandpipers and Short-billed Dowitchers? Head to your new copy of Birds of the West Indies of course!
Just a little to the left! All eyes are locked on the Sora!
Seabirds and scopes! In a beautiful setting…
Spotting scopes are a vital ticket to getting the front row seat to the most intimate views of bird behavior—and they’re a great tool for guides wanting to give their guests an incredible birding tour. Participants learned the essential tricks of scope setup and how to manage scope usage within a tour group from the seasoned guides. Pro-tip: Set the height of the scope to accommodate the shortest person in the group! Getting the opportunity to practice these skills by locating seabirds (Royal Terns abounded!) amidst the sublime backdrop of Blue Hills Jetty at sunset was the ultimate plus.
Scope setup practice at Blue Hills Jetty.
Participant and guide/boat captain in training, Steffino Lightbourne, adjusts the scope to get a closer look at a Royal Tern perched at the end of the jetty.
Royal Tern, an easy tern to ID, thanks to its large size and bright carrot-orange big beak!
Sunset at Blue Hills Jetty was a sublime interplay of blues and golds!
Participant and Biology teacher Amanda Brittain consults her Seabirds of the Caribbean card for gull ID support.
Painting a picture: A lesson in interpretive guiding
Back in the classroom, interpretive trainers Beny and Rick, who work as guides in Panama, wowed the participants with in-depth sessions on the birding market, communication skills, and the principles of environmental interpretation*. Participants experienced theory put into practice with a birding field trip to Bird Rock Point Trail. Along this picturesque walk, which winds through a variety of terrestrial and wetland habitats, trainers led smaller groups through the nuances of how to manage a tour. Questions addressed included how to keep the group together; balancing the needs of photographers in the group with those more focused on birdwatching; and how to cater to different skill levels. These were interrupted by the ever-exciting, “Did you see that?!” Trainers and participants alike were thrilled to confirm a sighting of a Rose-breasted Grosbeak—a rare spotting for TCI!
National Association of Interpretation, Certified Interpretive Trainer, Rick Morales, introduces the class to Tilden’s Six Principles of Interpretation – and the quality that underpins them all!
Beny’s heard something! As he demonstrates effective birding guide leadership, Beny pauses the group along the Bird Rock Point Trail to investigate a curious sound!
Beny’s animated lessons kept our cohort in rapt attention.
Lisa talks species ID techniques with third-generation mariner, Captain Levardo Talbot and Kaja Ewa, guide and owner of Jedi Kiteboarding.
Rick’s demonstration of an interpretive talk where he played the role of a hammock salesman was so transportive that the class was convinced that he really was trying to hawk them hammocks for a while!
Rose-breasted Grosbeak, female – we spotted this rare migrant during the week and some of us had good looks at it! (Photo by Anthony Louviere)
Birds and beyond…
The training also featured guest lectures from Bryan Naqqi Manco, Assistant Director of Research & Development, DECR, and all-around skilled naturalist/ botanist, who had everyone leaning in with a fascinating presentation on TCI’s endemic flora and fauna, and Simon Busuttil, RSPB Turks and Caicos Operations Manager, who shared information about TCI’s birding sites and conservation issues and the ongoing East Caicos Wilderness Project. The goal of this Darwin Plus funded initiative is the preservation of the natural and cultural heritage of this spectacular wilderness area, the last large-scale wilderness area in the British West Indies, for future generations to enjoy. Training local guides to interpret this area for visitors and locals alike is one of the goals of the CBT Guide Training Workshop. Participants were in awe when, on our field trip just following Bryan’s talk, we were treated to unexpected sightings of two endemics! As if to let us know that they wouldn’t be upstaged by all the birds—the Caicos Pygmy Boa, a TCI endemic, and the Tall Encyclia Orchid, a regional endemic, greeted us to gasps of surprise and appreciation along the Bird Rock Point Trail.
Naqqi’s presentation, “Nowhere Else,” was hailed as one of the week’s most revelatory talks – participants were amazed at how much they didn’t know about the familiar flora and fauna around them – and about how many incredible endemic species TCI boasts!
Can you see it? The Caicos Pygmy Boa can fit in the palm of your hand. The lucky spotting of this tiny TCI endemic caused a big stir among the team!
Simon’s presentation left everyone in awe of the wild beauty of East Caicos.
The Tall Encyclia Orchid is beautiful! But lean in closer and you’ll discover that its sweet scent is even more delightful. Participants reported notes of chocolate and vanilla.
Facilitator Sorenson poses for a picture with the team from the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources. From left to right: Junel Blaise (aka Flash), Bryan Naqqi Manco and Dodly Prosper.
What they learned—five intense days and a multitude of birds later!
After four utterly packed days of learning from the trainers, it was time for the trainees to take the stage! To demonstrate all they had learned that week, the class was tasked with delivering their very own interpretive talk, flavored by their unique perspectives and life experiences. It was deeply rewarding to listen as participants took us on thoughtfully-constructed journeys of discovery. Talks tackled everything from the proper technique to ‘heron-walk’ through mangroves so that you don’t alert fish, a secret handed down through generations of expert bone fishers; to convincing everyone in the group that kitesurfing could easily become their next big adventure, no matter how intimidating it looks; to an inspiring talk about the value of mangroves with the memorable message, “Mangroves don’t need us, we need them.” After an emotionally-charged day of humorous, revealing, and deeply authentic presentations with strong messages, we were happy to congratulate all participants on achieving their Certificates of Completion with flying colors!
BirdsCaribbean is pleased to present our Caribbean Birding Trail 2023 cohort!
Rave reviews from the participants!
Participants emphatically agreed that the curtain had just fallen on one of the most enriching weeks of their lives. When asked what they most appreciated, enjoyed, or thought was best about the course, one participant commented, “The mix of different people and to be inspired by the facilitators to seek a profitable but sustainable way forward and also a healthy way forward for the spirit. The materials given were awesome! And more than I was expecting.”
“The content of the workshop was outstanding, presented at the right pace and by the best instructors,” said another participant.
One participant who had a lot of experience birding, but not extensive guiding experience explained, “This week was helpful to learn how to participate as a leader for touring, not just for birding, but tours in general.”
Another participant shared, “I think the most interesting thing I learned this week was that there is an entire philosophy behind interpretation—I was not aware of that—and that has really helped me to review what I do in my own tours and to mold them more expertly in the future. This training was really valuable to me—I’ve been guiding for 23 years and I’m really happy to not only learn more about it, but also what I can change to make my programs better! We have a huge opportunity for birding tourism in the Turks and Caicos Islands, we have two endemic subspecies which can be seen nowhere else on earth and we have a couple of other near-endemics which are really easy to see here… Our missing cornerstone for the industry is trained guides—we hadn’t got any, and now we do!”
Keeping in touch—and thank you to our sponsors!
Since the workshop, a “Birdwatchers TCI” WhatsApp group has been formed with participants sharing every day what birds they are seeing, and getting help with bird ID as needed. The group has also planned field trips to continue practicing their bird identification skills—essential for becoming a knowledgeable guide. The group will use eBird Caribbean to document their birding, as well as participate in counts such as the Caribbean Waterbird Census, which will help us to learn more about the bird diversity and important sites for birds on TCI.
Heidi Clarke, Executive Director at the Sandals Foundation (one of the main sponsors of the guide training) said that the Sandals Foundation was, “proud to support this program, which taught participants how to inspire people and engage audiences through storytelling aimed at preserving TCI’s incredible birds and nature.”
“Collectively,” Clarke continued, “We can build a stronger eco-tourism market in TCI that provides sustainable livelihoods and supports environmental conservation. Helping trainees learn about the bird tourism market and how they can tap into this rapidly growing and lucrative ecotourism sector will be beneficial for years to come.”
Lisa gets some help demonstrating field marks from Mary Fulford, Owner and Founder of Island Mystique Tours.
Participants were thrilled to receive copies of Birds of the West Indies.
Binocular setup. Trainers took participants through the steps of adjusting their new binoculars for their eyesight.
Bibo Jayne and Morgan Luker taking their new specs for a test drive!
A handsome Ovenbird spotted on the trail. (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Levardo, Estefania, and Junel discuss the finer points of binocular adjustment.
The cohort listens in rapt attention as Lisa describes the work of BirdsCaribbean. (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Jedi Kiteboarding owner Kaja Ewa looks at Brown Pelicans at Blue Hills Jetty.
Yellow Warbler at Bird Rock Trail. (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
CBT Project Leader Holly Robertson flashes a smile!
Lisa and Levardo talk scope setup!
Spotted! Geneile Robinson (guide at Big Blue Collective) sports our Caribbean Endemics Love tote while sharing a light moment with Dr Dellareese Higgs (Turks and Caicos National Trust).
Beny teaches the class shorebird ID, while Dodley focus on getting the perfect shot!
A gorgeous Yellow-throated Warbler, North Caicos. (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Estefania Arrocet, Partner at Caicos Media, enjoys the waterbirds on a class field trip.
Lisa gives the class one of the toughest pop quizzes of all! How many different species of shorebirds are in the picture?
Fan favorites! Black-necked Stilts at Wheeland Pond.
180 unique species found nowhere else in the world! Our Caribbean Endemics Love tote encourages us all to know, love and protect our region’s incredible biodiversity.
Cape May Warbler, North Caicos. (Photo by Venecio Wilson)
Shake on it! After receiving their certifications, it was time for some friendly sportsmanship – a spirited game of lightning speed “Name that Bird!” team competition. Lillan Russell and Dodley Prosper square off!
With her encyclopedic knowledge of Caribbean birds, BirdsCaribbean President Adrianne Tossas was a formidable competitor, paired here with budding birder, Estefania.
Competitors must name the bird before their opponent – but only if they grab the orange first! The game of speedy reflexes and quick wits had the class in an uproar! Ernacio Forbes and Morgan compete!
Our “Most Enthusiastic” participants show off their prizes! (Levardo and Kaja)
Acknowledgements: The CBT Interpretive Guide Training was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors and local partners. These include the Sandals Foundation, the Turks and Caicos National Trust, Darwin Plus Initiative, the Turks and Caicos Department of Environment and Coastal Resources, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, Marshall Reynolds Foundation, Shika Shika, US Forest Service International Programs, and Vortex Optics.
The TCI CBT Interpretive Guide training is the seventh training to be carried out by BirdsCaribbean. Previous trainings have been held in Grenada, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Bonaire, Cuba, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. These guide trainings are integral to advancing the vision of the CBT—connecting people to the extraordinary places, diverse cultures, and people of each island. Through the CBT, we promote natural and authentic experiences that benefit local people and encourage the protection of the Caribbean’s natural resources, including birds and their habitats.
*Interpretation is a purposeful approach to communication that facilitates meaningful, relevant, and inclusive experiences that deepen understanding, broaden perspectives, and inspire engagement with the world around us. (National Association of Interpretation).
Demonica Brown and Maya Wilson assembling the Motus antenna. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Our Motus stations are multiplying! Twostations were recently installed in The Bahamas, bringing the total to six stations in just over a year—starting with two in Puerto Rico, followed by one each in Jamaica and Barbados. You may ask, “Remind us what Motus is?” The Motus Wildlife Tracking System, often abbreviated to “Motus” from the Latin word for movement, is an international collaborative research network that uses coordinated automated radio telemetry to facilitate research and education on the ecology and conservation of migratory animals. Put simply, it tracks the movements of small animals and birds in flight.
The Caribbean Motus Collaboration (CMC) aims to fill the geographical gap in the network in the Caribbean. As more stations are added, we will be able to learn more about the movements of migratory birds throughout the islands. It is exciting work! We look forward to a future filled with Motus stations to help us learn more about how to preserve these remarkable species on their journeys. Here, Demonica Brown, Science Officer at The Bahamas National Trust, shares her story of how the first two Bahamian stations were installed, and the impact they will have.
Wildlife backpackers on the move
Flying animals such as birds, bats, and insects are safely captured by trained professionals and “tagged” with tiny, lightweight transmitters that look like miniature backpacks. When these animals fly within the range of receiver stations, detection data is transmitted and added to the database. Motus is a powerful tool that allows researchers to gain a greater understanding of how these species, especially birds, move around.
Kirtland’s Warbler fitted with a lightweight nano-tag. This tiny transmitter lets researchers track the movements of tagged birds, bats, and even large insects with precision across thousands of miles. (Photo by Scott Weidensaul)
The various types of Motus tags that can be attached to animals to track their movement. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
The islands of The Bahamas are popular wintering grounds for many migratory bird species. Similarly to tourists that travel to the Caribbean to escape the cold in their home countries, winter migrants from North America make their way down the eastern coast of the US to our beautiful islands, where many of them remain throughout their non-breeding season (fall through early spring). For some migrants, our islands serve as a stop-over location along their migratory pathway as they make their way further south. Over 300 species have been recorded in The Bahamas, with migratory species accounting for more than half of them.
A male Green-winged Teal ventures across the mud. (Photo by Hemant Kishan)
Palm Warblers were named based on a specimen collected on Hispaniola, but this is far from a ‘tropical’ bird year-round. They are one of the northernmost breeding of all warblers (only the Blackpoll Warbler breeds farther north). (Photo by Ryan Schain Macaulay Library- ML223997711)
A Willet feeding. (Photo by Jesse Gordon)
Four stations slated for three Bahamian islands
Through the Caribbean Motus Collaboration, four new Motus stations will be installed across the country. Two stations will be set up on the northernmost island of Grand Bahama (described here). In the coming months, a third station will be installed on Eleuthera in the central Bahamas and finally, a fourth station on Great Inagua in the south! The installation of these stations is a big step towards better understanding how migratory, resident, and endemic species move throughout our islands and the Caribbean at large. I had the opportunity to assist with Motus tower installations on Grand Bahama, a first for myself.
Cesar and Todd attaching the antenna to the Motus tower at Rand Nature Center. (Photo by Maya Wilson)
Cesar and Todd attaching the antenna to the Motus tower at the Lucayan National Park. (Photo by Maya Wilson)
Since I reside in Nassau (the capital of The Bahamas), located on the island of New Providence, I first needed to get to Grand Bahama. Fortunately, this only required a quick 30-45 minute flight. Upon arrival, I was picked up by Lisa Wildgoose (Rand Nature Center Office Administrator) and headed to drop off my bags at my host home for the next few days. There I met my host Martha Cartwright, a Grand Bahama resident and fellow birder, who graciously welcomed me into her home.
Getting started on Grand Bahama, still feeling Hurricane Dorian’s effects
Lisa and I then made our way to The Rand Nature Center (RNC), one of three national parks on the island. This park protects 100 acres of pine and coppice forest, as well as a freshwater pond, making it a hotspot for birds. There I met with the rest of the Motus installation team, which consisted of Lisa Sorenson (BirdsCaribbean Executive Director), Maya Wilson (BirdsCaribbean Landbird Monitoring Program Manager), Todd Alleger (Northeast Motus Collaboration Installation Expert), and Cesar Montero (Caribbean Motus Collaboration Trainee). Also on hand to assist were two BNT Park Wardens, Bradley Pinder and David Claire. Director of Parks, Ellsworth Weir, provided crucial assistance with procuring supplies and getting all of the shipped Motus equipment out of customs—no small feat!
Grand Bahama Motus Installation team: Lisa Sorenson, Todd Alleger, Bradley Pinder, Cesar Montero, Maya Wilson, Demonica Brown and David Cooper. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
After catching up for a bit, we reviewed plans for the remainder of the week. To get started, Maya, Bradley, and I would start the work at Lucayan National Park (LNP) while the remainder of the team worked on getting additional supplies from the hardware store.
The scenery on the drive along the Grand Bahama Highway was somber. In 2019 Hurricane Dorian had ravaged this island for two full days. Winds of 185 mph, storm surge (up to 23 feet) and salt-water inundation drastically damaged pine, coppice, and mangrove habitats on both Grand Bahama and Abaco. These serve as vital habitats for many bird species, and their destruction resulted in the decreased population of many species including endemics such as the Bahama Swallow, Bahama Warbler (potentially extirpated on GB), and Bahama Nuthatch (potentially extinct). Though this is my second time visiting Grand Bahama post-Hurricane Dorian, it is still a sight to take in, with miles and miles of trees snapped in half. However, it was encouraging to see continued signs of regeneration, especially young pine growing, amongst the vast stretch of dead pine stands.
New pine trees and poisonwood growth after the devastation by Hurricane Dorian in 2019. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
It was hard labor—shovels, buckets, and mixing cement!
After a 25-30 minute drive, we finally arrived at Lucayan National Park (LNP). Established in 1982, this park protects both marine and terrestrial habitats, including one of the world’s longest-charted underwater cave systems. There we were joined by Delores Kellman (BirdsCaribbean Administrative Assistant) and Bob Davies (BNT volunteer), who generously offered to assist. The station was going to be located on the back of the rebuilt LNP Gift Shop, and our first task was to dig the hole for the base of the station. Pickaxes and shovels in hand, the team quickly got to digging.
Taking turns to dig the hole for the base of the tower behind the Lucayan National Park Gift Shop. (Photo by Demonica Brown)
Delores Kellman helps Maya to dig the hole for the base. (Photo by Demonica Brown)
Demonica and Bob Davies digging the hole for the base of the tower at the Lucayan National Park. (Photo by Maya Wilson)
About a quarter of the way down, we were met with a slight issue—our hole quickly started to fill with groundwater! This resulted in us needing to bail out buckets of water multiple times throughout the morning. After reaching an acceptable depth, the team worked on creating the frame that would hold the concrete when poured. With a few fittings to the hole, leveling, and other necessary adjustments, the frame was finally set and the 5-ft Rohn section (first section of the tower) was added and stabilized.
Water in the hole! The hole for the base of the tower filled with water. (Photo by Demonica Brown)
Delores bailing water from the hole. (Photo by Demonica Brown)
We returned to LNP the following morning to continue working on the station. While waiting on the equipment needed to complete the base, the team worked on assembling the antennas for the tower and preparing the cables. Three antennas for each of the 2 standard radio frequencies used by the Motus network were assembled, for a total of six antennas. This process was simple and went by quickly with everyone helping out. As the Motus expert, Todd gave each antenna a final look to ensure that everything was in place! Once complete, we resumed work on the base of the tower. With the 5-ft Rohn base section secured in place, it was time to add cement to set it in place for good. Mixing cement by hand can be a laborious task, but thankfully we had the help of a mixer which made the process easier. Many bags of cement later, we were ready to pour!
Bob and Maya constructing the base frame. (Photo by Demonica Brown)
Many bags of cement are needed to build a sturdy base for the Motus tower. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Pouring cement into the mixer. (Photo by Demonica Brown)
“Many bags of cement later, we were ready to pour.” (Photo by Demonica Brown)
Todd and Cesar ensures the tower is placed at the center of the base. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Lisa and Maya assembling one of the antennae for the tower. (Photo by Demonica Brown)
Todd and Cesar check the antenna before it is attached to the tower. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Base beautifully decorated with flowers and plants. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
While the rest of the team finished preparing the base, Lisa and I worked on collecting leaves and flowers of native plants, which were gently pressed into the top of the wet cement. With the cement successfully poured, and beautifully adorned, all it needed was time to dry. We finished off the remainder of the day at the Rand Nature Centre, where we prepared for the station installation the following day.
Demonica and Lisa with the various plants they collected to adorn the tower base at Lucayan National Park. (Photo by Demonica Brown)
A birding break…
I started my final day with the team with one of my favorite hobbies: birding! Martha planned a morning tour and led us to a few birding spots on the island, including Dover Sound and Barbery Beach. Perfect weather allowed us the opportunity to record about 27 species in total, including an unexpected lifer sighting for myself (Purple Martin). Overall, the morning was a success! We also were fortunate enough to spot five Bahama Swallows near a cell tower along the Grand Bahama Highway on our way to LNP to pick up supplies. Eventually, it was time to get back to work and continue work on the RNC station.
The group pauses to take a selfie while birdwatching at Barbery Beach, Grand Bahama. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Martha Cartwright and Cesar Montero searching for Wilson’s Plovers at Barbery Beach, Grand Bahama. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Martha, Cesar, Demonica, Maya and Todd birding at Barbery Beach, Grand Bahama. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Bahama Swallow swoops low to the ground. (Photo by Brendan Fogarty)
…Then, back to work!
At RNC, I assisted with preparing the remaining antennas and cables for the station. Once assembled, colored coordinated electrical tape was added to antennas of the same frequencies and then down the cables for ease of reference when installing them to the mast and connecting to the receiver. Finally, it was time to erect the Rohn tower onto the base plate that was secured onto the existing concrete near the main entrance of the building. Once set in place and secured with bolts, it was then bracketed to the building for extra security. The next steps would then be to attach the antennas and coaxial cables and connect them to the receivers.
Entrance to the Rand Nature Center, Grand Bahama. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Maya and Todd checking cables. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Motus station receiver with attached cables. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
Motus tower set up complete at Rand Nature Center, Grand Bahama. (Photo by Lisa Sorenson)
And the work continued…
Eventually, my time with the team came to an end and it was time to return home. The Motus team, however, kept hard at work and completed both installations before departing that weekend!
It is exciting to have these towers set up. I am looking forward to the data that will be collected and the research they will help to advance. In fact, the station at Lucayan National Park has already detected a migratory shorebird—a Semi-palmated Sandpiper that was tagged in Quebec, Canada! I am incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to assist with this amazing work and to have the ability to see first-hand the work that goes into these installations. I would like to give a special thank you to BirdsCaribbean for including me in this work and to Martha Cartwright for her hospitality!
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Photo by Sipke Stapert)
Demonica Brown is an early-career environmental scientist serving as a Science Officer at the Bahamas National Trust. In her current role, she focuses on avian and terrestrial matters in which she executes multiple bird-related projects involving monitoring migratory and resident birds. Understanding the importance of protected areas to these species, she is passionate about conservation and collecting valuable data that can also further aid in their management. She hopes to pursue a master’s in wildlife and environmental conservation and to conduct much-needed research on local threatened, endangered, and endemic bird species.
Acknowledgments
BirdsCaribbean thanks our members and donors who made the installation of these two Motus stations possible, including the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Action Fund and American Bird Conservancy (ABC). A huge thank you to Cesar Montero, and to Todd Alleger and the Northeast Motus Collaboration for their ongoing support (Todd now works as the Atlantic Flyway Motus Technical Coordinator with ABC). Thanks also to Martha Cartwright, Delores Kellman, and the BNT staff and volunteers who assisted in getting these stations up. Finally, much gratitude to Ed Gates and the late Erika Gates for supporting our crew on this visit with accommodations, transportation, and delicious meals. We dedicate these two new stations to the memory of Erika Gates, who was always striving to advance bird knowledge, awareness, and conservation in Grand Bahama and the Caribbean.
Get ready for the 15th annual Caribbean Waterbird Census (CWC) Region-Wide count! From January 14th to February 3rd 2024, you can directly contribute to Caribbean Waterbird conservation—keep reading to find out everything you need to know about our CWC 2024 count.
We are now a fantastic 15 years into the CWC Annual Regional Count. This year, you can help us add to this important long-term dataset! The 2024 count begins on Sunday January 14 and runs until Wednesday, February 3.
The Caribbean is home to over 185 species of waterbirds, including a number of endemic and globally threatened species and many migrants. The data you help us collect in this ongoing, standardized survey is essential for helping us understand how to best conserve this exceptional group of birds and manage their habitats. Over the 15 years of the CWC regional count the data collected has helped us in so many ways! For example, the Cargill Salt Ponds in Bonaire were designated a Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network (WHSRN) site of Regional Importance as a direct result of survey efforts. In addition, surveys in Turks and Caicos have revealed important sites for many shorebird species, including birds of conservation concern such as the Piping Plover and rufa Red Knot! CWC surveys are also critical in keeping up to date with any changes and threats to waterbirds and their wetland homes.
Anyone can participate in the CWC—just head out to your nearest wetland or beach, and record the birds you see. You can find detailed information about how to conduct surveys here. Why not wade into the wonderful world of waterbirds?
The striking Black-necked Stilt has long legs for wading into deep water to find food. (Photo by Dan Pancamo)
West Indian Whistling-Ducks swimming through duckweed at Negril Royal Palm Reserve in Jamaica. (photo by Ann Sutton)
Yellow-crowned Night-Heron seen by Nature Explorers Anguilla during their CWC survey (Photo by Nature Explorers Anguilla)
What makes a wetland?
During the CWC count you’ll be looking for waterbirds so you need to head out to *drumroll please*—a wetland! That may seem obvious, but what ‘counts’ as a wetland? For the CWC we include any areas where water is the primary factor controlling what lives there. This wide definition includes coastal wetlands like mangroves, mud flats, lagoons and beaches, as well as inland wetlands like lakes, ponds, swamps, areas around rivers and streams and even some types of agriculture (e.g. rice fields). Of course because this is the Caribbean Waterbird Census you need to be in the Caribbean to take part! Finally, whilst you’ll be on the lookout for waterbirds (ducks, herons, egrets, shorebirds etc.) you should be sure to count all the birds that you see and hear during your survey visits.
Fernando Simal braves harsh conditions at the Cargill salt ponds in Bonaire.
Flooded ricefields, like these ones in Trinidad, can be great places to look for waterbirds
The Zapata Swamp in Cuba is a birding hotspot for some of the island’s endemics but it also provides food and refuge for migratory birds.
Birding on the beach in Montserrat
From planning your surveys to waterbird ID to—we’re here to help!
Never done a CWC survey before or need a refresher? Don’t worry! We’ve pulled together some amazing resources that will help you with your counts. If you are not sure about how to get started planning your CWC surveys, check out our helpful youtube webinar that takes you through the steps of how to participate in the CWC!
We also have a handy “CWC Survey Tips” graphic to guide you on your way when planning your surveys. This is available in English, Spanish and French! As well as following the useful tips, you can download this graphic and share with others on social media (just open the graphic you want to use, right click and choose ‘save image as’).
What’s that? You need a hand with your waterbird ID? You’ve come to the right place—why not brush up on your ID skills using our helpful videos on youtube! Part I covers herons, egrets, ducks, marsh birds, and seabirds. Part II tackles those tricky shorebirds! We also have even more ID, survey planning tips, and outreach resources that are available for you to use and download on this page. This includes information on what to do if you see a banded bird during your surveys as well as our handy ID Guide to Common Caribbean Shorebirds, which can print and take with you on your surveys.
Make your counts count—get them on eBird!
Coral Aviles listing the birds in the CWC list on eBird, Blassina Canal Puerto Rico. (Photo by Eliezer Nieves)
Data from the CWC is all stored on eBird Caribbean. If you take part in the CWC, it is very important that you enter your data using a CWC protocol in eBird. When you submit your sightings on Step 2, under “Observation Type” be sure to pick one of the CWC options. Simply making an eBird list during the regional count dates is not enough—selecting the appropriate protocol is required for it to be ‘counted’ as CWC data.
If you are using the mobile eBird app to collect and submit your data, don’t forget that you need to use the eBird Caribbean portal to see the CWC protocol options (check in your settings).
If you’re new to eBird, check out our helpful video here on how to use eBird and Merlin. And if you need help with eBird submissions (it’s really not complicated!) or with setting up an eBird account, please contact Alex Sansom: waterbird.manager@birdscaribbean.org
Have fun out there!
We hope you have a great time exploring your country’s wetlands and counting birds during the regional CWC count! Please remember to stay safe and carry out your counts responsibly. This means taking care not to disturb the birds or damage their habitats. Enjoy counting birds and see how many of your local wetlands you can visit during this three-week period! Finally, if you enjoy your CWC experience remember that CWC counts are not limited to the regional count. You can do a CWC survey at any time of year as long as you are in a Caribbean wetland and count all the birds you see!
Good luck! We look forward to hearing about your findings. If you need help with bird ID, or have photos and exciting observations to share, please post to our Waterbird Group Listserv (everyone is welcome to join) and/or on our BirdsCaribbean Facebook page. For sharing on social media, use hashtags: #CaribbeanWaterbirdCensus and #WaterbirdsCount AND please tag us: @BirdsCaribbean
Promotional Social Media Graphics – Please feel free to download these graphics and use these to promote your Caribbean Waterbird Census surveys (just open the graphic you want to use right click and choose ‘save image as’) .
If you would prefer to customize our graphic, to add your logo or organization name or want to promote a CWC survey you are organizing you can use our Canva templates to create your own custom CWC 2024 graphics! (these are available in English, Spanish and French in both sizes).
Children birdwatching at Princess Park, Grand Bahama. (photo by EARTHCARE)
Every year thousands of migratory birds make epic journeys south. Many stop over in the Caribbean to rest and refuel; others arrive and spend the entire winter with us. Throughout Fall 2023 and on World Migratory Bird Day, we celebrated these beautiful visitors. We recognized and highlighted the amazing ways in which they adapt to endure such lengthy and dangerous journeys, and called attention to the importance of water to the survival of these birds. Check out the fun and creative ways in which Caribbean organizations got involved. Laura Baboolal, Caribbean Coordinator of World Migratory Bird Day for Environment for the Americas (EFTA), tells the story…
Water conservation for migratory birds and people
Every year we eagerly await the arrival of migratory birds as they flock to our shores, wetlands, forests, parks, gardens, and even backyards! This year’s theme was “Water: Sustaining Bird Life”; “Agua: vital para las aves” in Spanish;and in French, “L’eau: Source de vie pour les oiseaux.”
Birds need water as much as we do! They need to drink water to help them regulate body processes and use water to keep themselves clean and cool. And many migratory birds depend on healthy wetland habitats such as ponds, marshes, mangroves, rivers and coastal areas to safely rest during their long journeys south and to feed and replenish their energy.
The wetlands of Monte Cristi in the northern Dominican Republic are a fantastic place for waterbirds, including many migratory shorebirds. (photo by Maria Paulino)
This year’s theme highlighted the the impact of the growing water crisis on migratory birds. This theme resonated in the Caribbean, where islands have been enduring longer-lasting and more severe droughts. It is not only farmers and householders who are feeling the effects of lower than normal rainfall patterns. Birds are, too! Drought causes wetland habitats such as ponds, salinas, marshes, and rivers to shrink and dry up, thus impacting the amount of water available for birds to drink, feed and bathe, particularly those that rely on wetland habitats. Water scarcity also impacts people— we need clean water to drink, bathe, and grow our food.
The good news is that there are easy, everyday ways for us to reduce our water use and keep our natural supply of water flowing. Find out how our dedicated and passionate Caribbean educators throughout the islands used WMBD events to build and support coalitions of people to advocate for the protection of critical wetland habitats and water conservation.
Here are some highlights from this year’s WMBD events held in The Bahamas, Jamaica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, Antigua and Barbuda, Guadeloupe and Trinidad and Tobago. Many more islands are still hosting events, activities and celebrating this special time for migratory birds!
The Bahamas
EARTHCARE, an environmental education NGO that works across the islands of The Bahamas, celebrated WMBD by hosting a birdwatching trip for children at Princess Park on Grand Bahama Island. The children were excited to see and learn about the different birds at the Park. For many it was their first time using binoculars (provided by EFTA) and they were eager to find the birds using this fundamental tool for birders. Children love using binoculars and the first time using them is always a revelation! Gail Woon and Jill Cooper (EARTHCARE representatives) also visited the Eco School at Bishop Michael Eldon School (BMES) and made a presentation on the importance of water to birds, with special emphasis on migratory birds, and people.
EARTHCARE celebrates WMBD with a birdwatching trip for children at Princess Park, Grand Bahama. (photo by EARTHCARE)
Common Gallinule at Princess Park, Grand Bahama. (photo by EARTHCARE)
Getting the hang of using binoculars to look at birds. A child adjusts her binoculars while birdwatching at Princess-Park, Grand Bahama. (photo by EARTHCARE)
Yellow-crowned Night Heron at Princess Park. (photo by EARTHCARE)
Children birdwatching during EARTHCARE’s WMBD event at Princess Park, Grand Bahama. (photo by EARTHCARE)
An immature Common Gallinule makes its way to the pond at Princess Park, Grand Bahama. (photo by EARTHCARE)
Celebrating migratory birds with the Eco School at Bishop Michael Eldon School, Grand Bahama. (photo by EARTHCARE)
Students making bird masks during WMBD activities at the Eco School at BMES. (photo by EARTHCARE)
Students enjoying art and craft activities during EARTHCARE’s WMBD event at the Eco School BMES, Grand Bahama. (photo by EARTHCARE)
Jamaica
The Natural History Museum of Jamaica moved its popular “An Afternoon with a Scientist” from online and into nature at Hope Botanical Gardens, with the esteemed speaker being Ricardo Miller. Ricardo is a longtime member of BirdsCaribbean, veteran Jamaican birder, and Environmental Coordinator at the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA). Following this talk, students of Mona Preparatory School, Rollington Town Primary School and Sts. Peter and Paul Preparatory School in Kingston were treated to a birdwatching trip across the Gardens. Out in the field the youngsters had great fun using binoculars and bird ID cards to find and identify any birds they could spot!
Ricardo Miller speaks to students about migratory birds and water conservation at Hope Gardens, Jamaica. (photo by Natural History Museum of Jamaica)
Ricardo Miller leads students and teachers on a birding trip around Hope Gardens, Jamaica. (photo by Natural History Museum of Jamaica)
Students learn to use binoculars and a spotting scope to look at birds at Hope Gardens, Jamaica.(photo by Natural History Museum of Jamaica)
The session was a collaborative effort among the Hope Botanical Gardens, NEPA and Jamaica Environment Trust to commemorate this year’s World Migratory Day under the theme “Water and its Importance for Migratory Birds”.
Cuba
In Cuba, Biblioteca Municipal de Bauta (Bauta Municipal Library) in collaboration with the Bauta Birdwatchers Club, Faculty of Geography and Bird Ecology Group (University of Havana) hosted a migratory bird watching activity with 4th and 5th grade school students. The children learned about bird identification and the importance of protecting birds in their country.
Bird ID cards in hand and they are excited to go birdwatching. (photo by Bauta Municipal Library)
Students of 4th and 5th grades head outside to watch birds. (photo by Bauta Municipal Library)
Group photo with library staff and students at the library. (photo by Bauta Municipal Library)
Dominican Republic
During the month of October, Grupo Acción Ecológica (GAE) (Ecological Action Group) carried out several activities to celebrate migratory birds. The group ventured to different birding spots in the Dominican Republic to carry out bird counts, and uploaded their birding checklists to the eBird Caribbean online database.
GAE also partnered with the Department of Education to assist students with planting trees at the National Botanical Garden, thus increasing the number of endemic plants at the Garden. These plants will no doubt provide shelter and food for birds, and other wildlife for many years to come! The man-made lagoons at the Garden were the perfect setting for a live demonstration of the importance of water to birds.
A young girl models her bird mask. (photo by GAE)
Group of students birdwatching at one of the man-made lagoons in the National Botanical Gardens. (photo by GAE)
‘What’s that bird?’ Two girls use a field guide to Identify birds at the National Botanical Gardens. (photo by GAE)
In Jarabacoa the hands-on approach to learning, birding, and conservation continued. Students of the Doulos School went on bird walks and learned about different methods to survey bird abundance and species diversity. They also drew and painted the birds they saw and submitted their artwork to a WMBD contest organized by GAE. The festivities ended in the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo with a talk, tree planting activity, and birdwatching, where they had the opportunity to see more migratory birds!
Lecturer at Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo (Autonomous University of Santo Domingo), and long-time member of BirdsCaribbean,Simón Guerrero, introduced primary school students to migratory birds through a riveting presentation on common migrants. They learned about ‘Moonbird,’ a male Red Knot celebrated for its epic 10,000 mile annual migrations and for being the oldest known member of its species! Simón told us, “I always plant some trees to be sure birds will know we are doing something real for them, not just talking.” After the presentation and WMBD activities, firebush or hummingbird bush (Hamelia patens), a plant whose flowers and fruits are very attractive to native, endemic, and some migratory birds, was planted on the school’s compound.
Students captivated by the birds and art on the WMBD 2023 brochure. (photo by Simón Guerrero)
The students were especially excited to learn about the Red Knot called ‘Moonbird.’ (photo by Simón Guerrero)
Students plant the firebush plant in their school’s garden. (Photo by Simón Guerrero)
Puerto Rico
Conservation Opportunity got their hands dirty to help migratory birds! The NGO celebrated World Migratory Bird Day by cleaning the waterways in Charco Dos Bocas, Ciales, Puerto Rico. Approximately 150 pounds of trash were collected in one day. Over 50 people showed up to lend a hand and learn about birds. They also installed a new sign, reminding their fellow Puerto Ricans and visitors to the river to keep the environment clean.
River in Charco Dos Bocas Ciales after spectacular cleanup effort by volunteers. (photo by Conservation Opportunity)
Approximately 150 pounds of trash were collected. (photo by Conservation Opportunity)
A community representative speaks about actions taken by residents of Toro Negro to preserve the area.(photo by Conservation Opportunity)
A volunteer ensures no trash is left behind. (Photo by Conservation Opportunity)
‘Job well done!’ Conservation Opportunity members and volunteers after the amazing cleanup effort.(Photo by Alexia Morales))
Members of Conservation Opportunity take a photo by their newly installed sign. (photo by Conservation Opportunity)
Volunteers receive instructions before the start of the clean-up. (photo by Conservation Opportunity)
River cleanups provide a-safe spot for migratory birds and help intercept garbage before it reaches our oceans. (photo by Conservation Opportunity)
WMBD pins, stickers, bracelets, and more were distributed at Conservation Opportunity’s event. (Photo by Conservation Opportunity)
Meanwhile, Sociedad Ornitológica Puertorriqueña Inc. (SOPI) headed to EcoExploratorio (Science Museum of Puerto Rico) to talk about water conservation for birds and how to identify some of the more common winter migrants on the island.
‘Let’s talk Birds!’ Visitors to the museum learns about Puerto Rico’s feathered migrants. (photo by SOPI)
SOPI’s booth at EcoExploratorio.
St. Martin / Sint Maarten
This year Laura was able to visit St. Martin to attend a WMBD event hosted by Les Fruits de Mer and to share educational materials with both Les Fruits de Mer and Nature Foundation Sint Maarten.
WMBD Caribbean Coordinator, Laura-Baboolal with Mark Yokoyama and Jennifer Yerkes of Les Fruits de Mer.
Educational books on the wildlife of St Martin written by Jenn and Mark, were given to children during the event. (photo by Laura Baboolal)
‘Hi Mark!’ Mark eagerly awaits the arrival of participants. (photo by Laura Baboolal)
This Migratory Bird Festival included art activities for children, educational activity books developed by the organization, and nature walks.
Guadeloupe
Our partner, outstanding guide, and skilled biologist Anthony Levesque gave a talk on the on the birds of La Désirade. It is one of the islands of Guadeloupe and is better known for its white sand beaches and coral reef. It is also a sanctuary for birds looking to rest and refuel during migration. The following day Anthony led a birdwatching tour with 20 participants, who recorded some notable species such as the Greater Yellowlegs, Lesser Yellowlegs, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, and Bobolink.
Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs (Photo by Anthony VanSchoor)
Male Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Photo by Jesse Gordon)
Female Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Photo by Linda Petersen)
Male Bobolink in breeding plumage. (Photo by Ryan Sanderson- Macaulay Library-ML342377131)
Bobolink females. Male and female Bobolinks have similar plumage in the non-breeding season. Look out for flocks of these sparrow-like birds during migration. (Photo by Karalyn Lamb-Macaulay-ML4702854910)
Trinidad and Tobago
WMBD was celebrated in May on the same day as Global Big Day and the Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival (CEBF), at the ARC Conservation Field Station in Brasso Seco in Trinidad. You can read about the “Protect the Rivers, Save the Birds” event in our CEBF wrap-up blog.
In October, local school teacher Sabira Ali, who hosts private birding activities for children, celebrated WMBD with her students. The activity included a presentation on migratory birds—by the students themselves! Students were asked to select a migratory bird and give a short presentation on the bird to their classmates. This was followed by decorating bird masks and a fun quiz to recap all the feathery facts learned.
One of Sabira’s-students puts her personal touches on her bird mask. (photo by Sabira Ali)
‘It’s time for a WMBD quiz!’ Sabira tests the participants knowledge of migratory birds in a fun and short quiz.
Sabira’s students stops to take a photo with the colorful WMBD 2023 brochures. (photo by Sabira Ali)
We applaud the tremendous efforts of our educators who plan and execute educational and fun activities to ensure an unforgettable WMBD and inspire a love for birds and birdwatching. We extend a massive thank you to our ambassadors, who selflessly deliver educational materials to Caribbean islands. Environment for the Americas and BirdsCaribbean extend our greatest thanks to all of you and we look forward to seeing what you have planned for WMBD 2024!
Birds Connect our World—Fifteen new species shared on BirdsCaribbean’s website
BirdsCaribbean recognized WMBD by featuring new migratory birds in our virtual campaign– Birds Connect Our World. Each migratory bird profile was accompanied by a beautifully drawn coloring page by Christine Elder, 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. We also created short videos to help birders identify shorebirds that show up every fall in the Caribbean—for example, the Least Sandpiper, Lesser Yellowlegs, Short-billed Dowitcher and Stilt Sandpiper,Black-bellied and American Golden Plovers and the small and adorable, but confusing, plovers too!
Flying, hopping, wiggling, and crawling towards WMBD 2024
The WMBD theme for 2024 is Insects! While some people may shriek at the sight of these tiny creatures (and rightfully so because our brains confuse fear with disgust, and some insects are actually harmful to us) they are an important delicacy for birds. In fact, insects are so important to birds that migratory birds will literally fly halfway around the globe just to have an ample supply of insects to eat! Insects and bugs are a high protein food. Protein is essential to birds for keeping up energy and body mass and for growing baby birds.
A study published in the Journal of Biological Conservation reported that 40% of all insect species are declining globally. Loss of natural areas like forests and grasslands that have been converted or degraded by intensive agriculture and urban development, and climate change, have all contributed to this downward population trend. A scarcity of this protein-rich food source can hinder bird migration and breeding, leading to weakened immune systems, reduced reproductive success, and increased mortality rates for both adult birds and their offspring.
The WMBD campaign in 2024 will thus stress the need for proactive conservation measures like reducing the use of pesticides and fertilizers, switching to organic farming, and maintaining and connecting areas of natural vegetation in agricultural landscapes.
If you are interested in celebrating WMBD in your country, or if you can deliver materials to a Caribbean country, we encourage you to visit the WMBD website for more information; or contact the Caribbean Regional Coordinator, Laura Baboolal, at lbaboolal@environmentamericas.org. If you have an event planned, you can register it and put the Caribbean on the global events map.
BirdsCaribbean is excited to invite applications to participate in a 5-day training workshop focused on bird banding, an important tool for research and monitoring! Through a blend of classroom and field-based activities, participants will learn about the basics of bird banding—from setting up a mist-net to examining molt patterns. We’ll also discuss and demonstrate some of the benefits of joining our new Caribbean Bird Banding Network. We’re very excited to take our bird banding workshop to the Lesser Antilles this year! In partnership with Gaea Conservation Network and the Grenada Fund for Conservation, the workshop will take place in Grenada, from March 7-11, 2024.
Why do we need to band birds?
A Cuban Tody wearing a BirdsCaribbean band about to be released. (Photo by Daniela Ventura)
Bird surveys, like those we will cover in our upcoming Landbird Monitoring Training Workshop, provide valuable information about bird communities. Bird banding is another tool that can give us deeper insight into how our birds are doing. By individually marking and assessing birds in the hand, we can collect data that can tell us about their demography and health, including:
Looking at fat scores and weights to assess the body condition of birds in different habitats and at different times of the year, which in turn sheds light on the quality of the habitats these birds are using;
Aging birds using plumage to investigate demographic patterns;
Using recapture records to learn about survivorship and longevity;
Assessing the presence or absence of breeding characteristics to better understand the timing of breeding and life history for many of our understudied Caribbean endemics; and
Finding out which migratory routes our shared birds are taking, and gaining a better understanding of factors influencing survival and longevity of species.
Over the long-term, banding can also help us understand patterns and trends in bird populations, to aid in their management and conservation.
About the workshop
This workshop is the third annual Caribbean Bird Banding (CBB) Training Workshop. It will cover many of the same topics explored in our previous CBB Training workshops held in The Bahamas (March 2022) and the Dominican Republic (March 2023). The workshop is designed for Caribbean wildlife professionals and volunteers who are interested in gaining more experience with bird banding. Prior banding experience is not required. However, priority will be given to applicants who are likely to continue training to gain the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to initiate avian research and/or banding programs on their home islands.This workshop will focus on banding landbirds. We hope to provide banding training opportunities for other bird groups in the future.
The purpose of the workshop is to:
Provide participants with a basic understanding of bird banding techniques and best practices.
Discuss what it takes to set-up and run a bird banding station.
Prepare participants for additional bird banding training and potential North American Banding Council (NABC) certifications (bander, trainer) in the future.
Share information about the other training opportunities, resources, and community available through the CBB Network.
Daniela Ventura del Puerto (Cuba) provides instruction on bird molt to workshop participants Giselle Ragoonanan (Trinidad) and Elvin Manual Vargas Estevez (Dominican Republic).
Several NABC-certified trainers will share their knowledge in the classroom, at the mist-net, and at the banding table, covering topics like:
Proper set-up and placement of a mist-net
Extracting birds from mist-nets using the body-grasp technique
Starting a banding station
Bird first-aid and safety
Bird banding ethics and basics
Using bird banding for education and public demonstrations
Aging birds using both WRP and Howell-Pyle terminology
Molt patterns
Bird banding is a complex skill to learn. This workshop is intended to be a starting point, and participants should not expect to leave the workshop with the necessary qualifications to band birds independently. To become fully immersed and practice what was learned at the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to be considered for a bird banding internship at one of several partner bird observatories.
In an effort to decrease the amount of time spent in the classroom, some workshop sessions will be held virtually prior to the in-person workshop. These virtual sessions will also be made available to a wider audience. Stay tuned for more information!
Funding and Logistics
We aim to include approximately 15 participants in this workshop. BirdsCaribbean has funding for a limited number of need and merit-based scholarships to cover the costs of travel and participation. Participants who are able to contribute all or part of their costs can help us enhance the workshop content and allow us to include additional participants/trainers. We encourage applications from all candidates who are well-suited to make use of this training, regardless of their financial ability. Participants should plan to arrive in Grenada on March 6th and depart on March 12th.
Participants at our Caribbean Bird Banding Workshop held in the Dominican Republic earlier this year. (Photo by Joshua Covill)
Applications
If you are interested in participating in this workshop, please fill out this form by 22 December 2023.
BirdsCaribbean would like to thank J.C. Fernández-Ordóñez for the Spanish translation.
Oportunidad de Capacitación: Taller de Anillamiento de Aves en el Caribe
BirdsCaribbean se complace en invitarle a participar de un taller de capacitación de 5 días centrado en el anillamiento de aves, una importante herramienta para la investigación y el seguimiento. A través de una combinación de actividades de aula y de campo, los participantes aprenderán los fundamentos del anillamiento de aves, desde la instalación de una red de niebla hasta el examen de los patrones de muda. También discutiremos y demostraremos algunos de los beneficios de unirse a nuestra nueva Red de Anillamiento de Aves del Caribe. Estamos muy contentos de llevar nuestro taller de anillamiento de aves a las Antillas Menores este año. En colaboración con Gaea Conservation Network y el Fondo de Granada para la Conservación, el taller tendrá lugar en Granada del 7 al 11 de marzo de 2024.
¿Por qué necesitamos anillar aves?
Los estudios sobre aves, como los que trataremos en nuestro próximo taller de capacitación sobre seguimiento de aves terrestres, proporcionan información valiosa sobre las comunidades de aves. El anillamiento de aves es otra herramienta que puede darnos una visión más profunda de cómo están nuestras aves. Marcando y evaluando individualmente a las aves en la mano, podemos recopilar datos que nos informen sobre su demografía y salud, entre otros:
Observar las puntuaciones de grasa y los pesos para evaluar la condición corporal de las aves en diferentes hábitats y en diferentes épocas del año, lo que a su vez arroja luz sobre la calidad de los hábitats que estas aves están utilizando;
Envejecimiento de las aves mediante el plumaje para investigar patrones demográficos;
Utilización de registros de recaptura para conocer la supervivencia y la longevidad;
Evaluar la presencia o ausencia de características reproductoras para comprender mejor el momento de la reproducción y el ciclo biológico de muchas de nuestras endémicas caribeñas poco estudiadas; y
Averiguar qué rutas migratorias siguen nuestras aves compartidas y comprender mejor los factores que influyen en la supervivencia y longevidad de las especies.
A largo plazo, el anillamiento también puede ayudarnos a comprender las pautas y tendencias de las poblaciones de aves para contribuir a su gestión y conservación.
Sobre el taller
Este taller es el tercer Taller Anual de Capacitación en Anillamiento de Aves en el Caribe (CBB). Cubrirá muchos de los mismos temas explorados en nuestros talleres previos de Entrenamiento en CBB llevados a cabo en Las Bahamas (marzo 2022) y República Dominicana (marzo 2023). El taller está diseñado para profesionales y voluntarios de la vida silvestre del Caribe que estén interesados en adquirir más experiencia en el anillamiento de aves. No se requiere experiencia previa en anillamiento. Sin embargo, se dará prioridad a los solicitantes que tengan posibilidades de seguir formándose para adquirir los conocimientos, habilidades y experiencia necesarios para iniciar programas de investigación y/o anillamiento de aves en sus islas de origen. Este taller se centrará en el anillamiento de aves terrestres. Esperamos ofrecer oportunidades de formación en anillamiento para otros grupos de aves en el futuro.
El propósito del taller es:
Proporcionar a los participantes una comprensión básica de las técnicas de anillamiento de aves y las mejores prácticas.
Discutir lo que se necesita para montar y dirigir una estación de anillamiento de aves.
Preparar a los participantes para formación adicional en anillamiento de aves y posibles certificaciones del Consejo Norteamericano de Anillamiento (NABC) (anillador, formador) en el futuro.
Compartir información sobre otras oportunidades de formación, recursos y comunidad disponibles a través de la Red CBB.
Varios formadores certificados por la NABC compartirán sus conocimientos en el aula, en la red de niebla y en la mesa de anillamiento, abordando temas como:
Montaje y colocación correctos de una red de niebla
Extracción de aves de las redes de niebla mediante la técnica de agarre del cuerpo
Puesta en marcha de una estación de anillamiento
Primeros auxilios y seguridad de las aves
Ética y fundamentos del anillamiento de aves
Uso del anillado de aves para educación y demostraciones públicas
Envejecimiento de aves utilizando terminología WRP y Howell-Pyle
Patrones de muda
El anillamiento de aves es una habilidad compleja de aprender. Este taller pretende ser un punto de partida, y los participantes no deben esperar salir del taller con las calificaciones necesarias para anillar aves de manera independiente. Para sumergirse por completo y poner en práctica lo aprendido en el taller, los participantes tendrán la oportunidad de ser tenidos en cuenta para unas prácticas de anillamiento de aves en uno de los varios observatorios de aves asociados.
En un esfuerzo por reducir el tiempo de permanencia en el aula, algunas sesiones del taller se celebrarán virtualmente antes del taller presencial. Estas sesiones virtuales también se pondrán a disposición de un público más amplio. Esté atento para más información.
Financiación y logística
Nuestro objetivo es contar con aproximadamente 15 participantes en este taller. BirdsCaribbean cuenta con financiación para un número limitado de becas basadas en la necesidad y el mérito para cubrir los costes de viaje y participación. Los participantes que puedan contribuir con la totalidad o parte de sus costes pueden ayudarnos a mejorar el contenido del taller y permitirnos incluir más participantes/formadores. Animamos a presentar solicitudes a todos los candidatos que estén en condiciones de aprovechar esta formación, independientemente de su capacidad financiera. Los participantes deberán prever su llegada a Granada el 6 de marzo y su salida el 12 de marzo.
Solicitudes
Si está interesado en participar en este taller, complete este formulario antes del 22 de diciembre de 2023.
Black Skimmers are tern-like seabirds with stark black and white plumage and a distinctive uneven bill.
While all birds are unique (of course!), Black Skimmers (Rhynchops niger) really stand out, with their long, knife-like, red-and-black bill with its unique long lower mandible. Unlike the related terns and gulls, eyesight is less important for catching prey; skimmers forage by slicing the water with their long lower mandible. Upon touching a small fish, their bill snaps shut to catch the fish. This feeding method allows for evening and nightly meals.
Dr. Kara Lefevre, now an Associate Dean of the Faculty of Science at Thompson Rivers University in British Columbia, became interested in skimmers while at Florida Gulf Coast University at Fort Myers, Florida. In their JCO article, “Insights from attempts to track movement of Black Skimmer (Rynchops niger) fledglings in the southern Gulf of Mexico with automated telemetry and band resighting,” Lefevre and colleagues tested whether they could track the movements of 3-week old skimmer youngsters that were raised at two colonies in south Florida, close to the Caribbean. Learning about dispersal of young skimmers from natal colonies would be of great value to learn about population dynamics and design conservation measures.
Black Skimmer chick with nanotag attached to its feathers, St Pete Beach August 2018. (Photo by Kara Lefevre)
Tagged juvenile Black Skimmer at the breeding colony on Marco Island, August 2018. (Photo by Jean Hall)
Although Black Skimmers are classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, skimmer colonies are negatively affected by human disturbance and modifications of their coastal habitat. Kara and her team attempted to use the Motus network to follow fledgling skimmers equipped with signal-emitting tags. Dr. Stefan Gleissberg, Managing Editor of JCO, asked Kara to tell us about her experiences while conducting her research—a more personal perspective that usually does not make it into an academic article.
How did you first conceive of this study, and what motivated you to conduct this research?
The Black Skimmer is known for its striking appearance and unique fishing behavior, and its large colonies along the Gulf of Mexico coast make it emblematic of Florida’s beaches. The proximity of Florida to the Caribbean makes it an interesting place to study skimmers because they occur across the Americas, yet little is known about juvenile dispersal and migration. We were interested in studying topics that support conservation of this majestic species while testing new methods of tracking bird movements.
Tell us about a memorable moment during field research or data analysis.
We witnessed many intense disturbances of these coastal breeding birds during our field studies. That includes human recreation along with major tropical storms like Hurricane Irma in 2017. A vivid memory is a prolonged Red Tide that was killing marine wildlife including skimmers and many other species of seabirds and shorebirds in southwest Florida in 2018. One day I was out surveying the colony at Marco Island from across a lagoon, and far in the distance noticed a large reddish hump on the shore that didn’t make sense. After zooming in with a spotting scope, I realized it was a dead beached manatee that was attracting scavenging animals. For me, that sad sight was emblematic of negative human impacts on coastal ecosystems, and a reminder of why we do this kind of research.
Dr Lefevre’s colleagues and volunteers reading Black Skimmer leg bands at the Marco Island colony, September 2018. (Photo by Kara Lefevre)
Tell us about a challenge you had to overcome; maybe an unexpected turn of events during field work or data analysis?
Working with finicky technology can create so many challenges! We faced hurdles related to permissions to do the research, technical challenges with setting up the array of telemetry stations, and storms that impacted receiving abilities. Probably the trickiest part was interpreting the data; we had to decipher whether automated telemetry detections in unexpected locations were actually real (spoiler alert: they were most likely false detections).
Dr Lefevre stops to take a selfie while manually tracking nanotagged skimmers at Marco Island.
A pair of Black Skimmers in flight.
Getting their toes wet during field work—co-author Adam DiNuovo surveying skimmers at Marco Island during low tide. (Photo by Kara Lefevre)
What are your hopes for what your research will lead to? Will this work impact your own research agenda going forward?
We hope this attempt to track juveniles will support broader study of skimmer dispersal and migration. In the years since we started our fieldwork, much of that is already underway. Newer and more powerful tracking technologies continue to develop rapidly, which is why researchers refer to this time as the “Golden Age” for bird migration research. In terms of my own research agenda, I plan to continue studies that support the conservation of seabird populations and their habitats while raising public awareness. The fieldwork for my PhD took place 20 years ago in Tobago—I would love to visit those rainforests again!
Black Skimmer and other seabird colonies can benefit from the use of modern tracking technologies that allow us to identify and protect important nesting and post natal habitats.
Anything else you’d want to share?
This is an exciting time for young people in the Caribbean who are interested in studying and protecting wildlife. With the availability of web conferencing and open tools, sharing of resources and expertise is easier than ever before. There is also growing attention to the need for training the next generation of conservation professionals in their places of origin—organizations like BirdsCaribbean are supporting that effort. Folks can also seek encouragement from professional groups that promote diversity and inclusion and provide resources for students and early-career professionals (see linked examples from the Society for Canadian Ornithologists, Association of Field Ornithologists).
In attempting to track the movements of Black Skimmer fledglings, Dr Lefevre’s findings raised several interesting questions—like why skimmer chicks from different colonies seem to move further south than others, and whether some skimmers might be moving from Florida even further afield to the Caribbean! Access Dr Lefevre’s full paper here to explore the study’s findings.
The Journal of Caribbean Ornithology is a peer-reviewed journal covering all aspects of ornithology within the Caribbean region. We welcome manuscripts covering the biology, ecology, behavior, life history, and conservation of Caribbean birds and their habitats. This journal provides immediate open access to its content on the principle that making research freely available to the public supports a greater global exchange of knowledge.
One of the issues that the birding community has been working on for the last several years is how we can be more welcoming and inclusive of all birders—beginner birders and future potential birders—to join us and share the joy of birding. It’s an issue to which passionate birders, Hannah Buschert, and her husband Erik, have given a great deal of thought, and which led to the creation of Women Birders (Happy Hour) podcast.
Their ‘happy hour’ podcast is dedicated to broadcasting the lived experiences of women, from diverse backgrounds, who love birds. And of course, it’s not happy hour without cocktails! For each episode, Hannah delights us with a unique, bird-inspired alcoholic concoction based on a species mentioned in the interview!
Last month’s guest was our very own BirdsCaribbean President—Dr Adrianne Tossas! Adrianne has a Ph.D. degree in ecology from the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras. She currently teaches biology at the university level, leading undergraduate students in avian ecology research and conservation work. Along with her students, she monitors landbird and waterbird populations in northwestern Puerto Rico. In addition to her role as President of BirdsCaribbean, she serves as the Co-Chair of the organization’s Mentorship Program and Chair of the Grant Awards Committee. She is the author of the book Birds of Puerto Rico for Children, and regularly gives talks and contributes newspaper articles about conservation for the general public.
Dr Tossas with her students in field.
Dr Tossas leads a birding tour for girls during the Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival.
Adjusting a spotting scope for participants during a Bird Guide Training workshop in Turks and Caicos. (Photo by Christel Mohammed)
Grab yourself a drink (might we suggest Hannah’s Puerto Rican Vireo cocktail below?), kick back, and settle into happy hour with Hannah and Adrianne! It’s an inspiring podchat about how Adrianne started birding, her experience being a woman in a male-dominated field, her research, the mentors that helped to guide and shape her into the conservationist that she is today, and her efforts to transform the local birding community in Puerto Rico to include more women and young birders.
Enjoy!
Listen
Choose your preferred podcast platform to listen to Adrianne’s interview by clicking this Buzzsprout link.
The Peregrine Falcon is famously known as the fastest animal on Earth, reaching speeds of up to 240mph when in a dive. (Beth Hamel)
Birds of prey are magnificent, powerful creatures, with a mystique all their own. They play an essential role in Caribbean ecosystems. Sadly, however, their significance as the only native terrestrial predators in the region is often underestimated and misunderstood.
Hispaniola Program Director at The Peregrine Fund, Marta Curti, is one of those conservationists who believe that raptors don’t get the attention they deserve. To inspire others with her own personal passion for the birds, she has written a remarkable new 200-page publication entitled “Raptors of the Caribbean: Education and Conservation Resource Guide.” It is available in Haitian Creole, Spanish and English, and divided into four chapters, each including fun and enlightening educational activities and a learning evaluation. The guide covers identification of raptor species, conservation techniques, and—most importantly—explains “Why Raptors Matter.”
Cover of the new Raptors of the Caribbean Education & Conservation Resource Guide.
“I believe the completion of this guide is a major milestone for raptor conservation throughout the Caribbean,” says Marta. “I hope this guide will help in fostering passion and compassion for the region’s birds of prey and will inspire students, teachers, biologists, and others to work to conserve these amazing birds.”
The workshop includes hands-on, dynamic activities including constructing life-sized hawks using recyclable materials, participating in “raptor Olympics,” a “food chain relay race,” and putting on a play. Marta’s goal is to extend these workshops across the region—while at the same time “training the trainers” to continue teaching students, community members, and educators about the importance of our amazing hawks, falcons, and kites.
Nature sketching and bird observation. (Marta Curti)
Training Workshop practicing bird observation skills. (Marta Curti)
Building a life sized Ridgway’s Hawk out of recyclable materials (Marta Curti)
Caribbean birds of prey vary greatly in size, behavior, and their preferred habitats. Some are migratory or passage migrants, transiting through the region, such as the Peregrine Falcon itself, which may be becoming more common in urban areas. Another speedy and powerful hawk, the Merlin, also migrates from north to south in the winter. Others such as the American Kestrel and the Red-tailed Hawk are seen more often. While some raptors are quite adaptable to new environments, several endemic species and subspecies are in need of help: for example, the Ridgway’s Hawk, Cuban Kite, Grenada Hook-billed Kite, and Puerto Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk. Climate change, deforestation, hunting, and persecution are among the dangers they face.
The Ridgway’s Hawk is one of the most critically endangered raptors in the world, with fewer than 500 individuals remaining. (Dax Roman)
Merlin Female taking off. (Phoo Chan)
The American Kestrel is a more frequently seen migrant to the region. (Photo by Imran Ashraf)
Since the printing of the new guide, Marta has completed two training workshops for a total of 39 people, including teachers, field technicians with the Ministry of the Environment, biology students, and women from rural communities who she hopes to involve more in our conservation efforts through a Women’s Conservation Fellowship. One of the best comments we received from participants were: “These activities really show how much we know about the Ridgway’s Hawk,” and “I am so surprised about how much we have learned in just two days.” Another great comment was short and sweet, “I haven’t laughed this hard in a long time as I have during this workshop.”
If you’re interested in learning more about the workshops and/or how to access a copy of the Raptor Education Guide, please contact: Marta Curti
BirdsCaribbean is proud to support this groundbreaking initiative, through the Betty Petersen Conservation Fund; along with the VanTienhoven Foundation, ACSEH, and National Aviary and partners in the Dominican Republic: Fundación Propagas, Fundación Grupo Puntacana, the Dominican Republic Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources, and ZOODOM (National Zoo of Santo Domingo).
For as long as we have been here, human activity has fundamentally altered our environment. In this blog, forensic scientist and ornithologist, Dr Jessica Oswald, and archaeologist and curator, Dr Michelle LeFebvre, discuss their latest research into changes in parrot diversity after human arrival to the Caribbean. Their study analyzed ancient DNA from fossils and archaeological specimens to show how even cultures and peoples that are largely lost, have shaped the diversity and distributions of species, and changed ecosystems.
Dr LeFebvre elaborates, “As we enter what many are calling the “Age of Humans” (or the Anthropocene), it is more and more apparent that conservation must consider how species can survive in a human-dominated world. In the Caribbean, parrot conservation is exemplary of this need! This study provides a long-term blueprint, or baseline, of past human impacts on parrots from which to think about the future of extant parrot species distribution, vulnerability to loss, and hopefully persistence across Caribbean landscapes increasingly impacted by people.” Dr Oswald adds, “Only through deep time perspectives of diversity with paleontological (pre-human), archaeological (human associated) and modern samples from museum specimens, can we begin to reveal the complexity of our role in shaping our natural world.”
Co-authors Michelle LeFebvre (left) and Jessica Oswald (middle), pictured with graduate student Cristina Oliveira (right), combined DNA from modern museum specimens with ancient DNA from fossils and archaeological specimens to find out how humans altered the distribution of parrots. (Photo by Kristen Grace/Florida Museum)
Understanding the long-term impact of humans on biodiversity is critical for sound conservation. Parrots are one of the most enigmatic and beloved animals worldwide. For thousands of years, they have been valued as pets, for their feathers, and as a source of food. They are also among some of the most endangered birds today as they face extinction due to habitat loss and the pet trade. Parrot conservation efforts include reintroduction to places previously occupied by parrots and breeding programs. However, knowing the natural (pre- human) distributions of parrots is nearly impossible with modern day distributions because of thousands of years of trade and habitat loss. The conservation of parrot species thus greatly benefits from knowledge about past parrot diversity and distributions prior to encountering people for the first time. We can obtain this information through fossils and bones from paleontological (pre-human) and archaeological (human associated) sites.
Humans have been altering the natural world for longer than we thought
The Caribbean is a well-known biodiversity hotspot. Yet, the region has lost more than half of its native parrot diversity since the arrival of humans around 6,000 years ago, including macaws, parakeets, and even a tiny sparrow-sized parrot called a parrotlet that once inhabited the islands. Today, there are only 12 remaining parrots native to the Caribbean, which compete for space and resources with 12 non-native parrot species that have been recently introduced to the islands. Fossil and archaeological records and historical documents, all suggest that the remaining species were once far more abundant than they are today. For example, while exploring The Bahamas over 500 years ago, Columbus wrote that flocks of parrots were so abundant that they “obscure[d] the sun.”
All species of Amazona parrots are in decline and their pre-human, native distributions are not well understood. Through our work recently published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, we aimed to understand how diversity and distribution of Amazona parrots changed before and after humans arrived in the Caribbean. Our primary focus was on the Cuban Parrot (A. leucocephala) and the Hispaniolan Parrot (A. ventralis), which have excellent archaeological and paleontological records. These records allowed us to reconstruct historical distributions and diversity over ~10,000 years—a period called the Holocene—through the ancient DNA found in these remains. Through this effort we also investigated the genetic relationships of living or recently lost (in the 20th century) Cuban Parrot populations and the relationships of all Amazona species using modern specimens curated in natural history museum collections. We combined this molecular data with carbon dating and evolutionary analysis to produce a comprehensive baseline of Caribbean parrot diversity through time.
DNA from Hispaniolan Parrot Amazona ventralis (top) and Cuban Parrot A. leucocephala (middle) specimens, and their bones (bottom) were sampled for this project. The left two (humeri) bones are from fossil sites while the rightmost is from a modern specimen. (Photo by Kristen Grace/Florida Museum)
The endemic Hispaniolan Parrot was once native . . . to The Bahamas!
In our study, we found that Caribbean parrots were much more diverse earlier in the Holocene and prior to human arrival to the region. Parrot extinctions started upon the arrival of Indigenous peoples ~6,000 years ago, accelerated through colonization by European settlers at the end of the 15th century, and they continue today. Within Amazona parrots, we found evidence that a population of Cuban Parrots in the Turks and Caicos was genetically distinct and is now extinct. The Hispaniolan Parrot, now endemic to Hispaniola, was once also native to The Bahamas prior to human settlement. Our results also suggest that the Hispaniolan Parrot was transported to islands beyond their native ranges, including Montserrat in the Lesser Antilles. From the perspective of Caribbean parrot conservation, our results suggest that many species have been lost due to human impacts and there is evidence of long-term human introductions of species beyond their native ranges.
Hispaniolan Parrot eating. (Photo by Dax Roman)
The findings from our study provide the most detailed view of Caribbean parrot diversity and distribution across the Holocene and show that the shifts in parrot diversity and distributions were strongly influenced by people across millennia. The results clarify that notions about whether a species is native or restricted to a region or island requires data across long time scales, rather than relying purely on the lens of the present. Deep-time historical sciences and perspectives are key to conservation as we navigate biodiversity loss and conservation in the present and future.
Pair of Cuban Parrots. (Photo by Ger Bosma)
Jessica A. Oswald is a Michigan native who earned her PhD from the University of Florida. She has spent her career building a research program that uses a variety of data, like fossils and genomic data, to understand the diversity and distributions of birds. Her hope is that these data can be used for conservation applications and will provide insight into the importance of paleontological data in biogeographic, phylogenetic, and ecological studies.
Michelle J. LeFebvre is an archaeologist and a curator of archaeology at the Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida. With a focus on how interactions between people and animals in the past have impacted animal diversity and distribution in the present, she collaborates with paleontologists, biologists, Indigenous peoples, and local resource managers to support the conservation of biological and cultural diversity in the Anthropocene. Her passion lies in exploring the ways in which human culture and nature are linked and shape the world around us.
In May 2022, amidst serious declines in global seabird populations, we announced that we were targeting 2023 for the launch of the first-ever coordinated Caribbean Seabird Census (CSC23). The goal was simple—protect seabirds by first improving our knowledge of where they are nesting in the region and their current breeding population sizes. By filling critical knowledge gaps, comparing today’s numbers with previous colony counts, and in some cases, establishing baseline data—the regional census program will give us the information needed to develop the advocacy, protection, and management actions that our seabird species need. Surveys of breeding seabird populations kicked off in Summer 2022, and it has been a whirlwind of a journey! Read on to find out how the Census has progressed across the region, how you can still participate in and support this critical work, and what’s next for the CSC!
Thanks to the incredible dedication of everyone involved, we are thrilled to announce that we are now receiving a steady stream of seabird breeding data from across the region. So far, we’ve gathered data from 58 different seabird breeding sites! Even more exciting is the overwhelming support we’ve received for this initiative, with over 36 collaborators from 27 countries and territories across the wider Caribbean region. These collaborators are actively preparing their data for submission or are currently engaged in conducting winter breeding seabird surveys. This includes some of the region’s critically important colonies of Magnificent Frigatebirds and several species of boobies.
Masked Booby adult and chick. (Photo by Ann Sutton)
Magnificent Frigatebird nesting colony. (Photo: Jeff Gerbracht)
The map below highlights the countries which surveyed seabirds between 2022-2023.
Countries participating in the Caribbean Seabird Census. Note that for large countries, the whole country is colored even though only a few localized sites may be censused.
From acoustic surveys of Audubon Shearwaters in Montserrat, to the impressive 3,861 breeding pairs of Magnificent Frigatebirds on Half Moon Caye in Belize, to the bustling Dog Island, Anguilla that supports more than 300,000 breeding pairs of seabirds of 9 different species, to collaborations that will cover most of the breeding sites in Guadeloupe and Martinique—our local partners have been working hard over the last few months to collect data.
Juliana Coffey identifying seabirds with seabird patrol volunteers, Union Island. (Alison DeGraff Ollivierre)
Half Moon Caye, Belize.
Grenadines Guardians seabird survey. (Photo by Juliana Coffey)
In 2024, we will keep compiling and start to analyze this wealth of data. This work will continue to be a collaborative effort with our local partners across the region. Our focus will be on comparing populations to previous surveys, with the aim of uncovering trends in seabird populations. We will also work on estimating regional population sizes and identifying potential seabird breeding hotspots. This process will be informed by global and regional population estimates and thresholds. It’s an exciting journey of discovery, and we’re eager to share our findings with you.
We have identified some gaps
We understand that not everyone has been able to participate this year, and there are still some significant gaps in our data. Logistical challenges have prevented surveys of certain key sites, including the Morant Cays and Pedro Bank in Jamaica, but we’re actively planning to address these gaps in 2024. In The Bahamas, the sheer magnitude of surveying numerous islands within this vast archipelago, which stretches over 100s of kilometers, has proven challenging given other priority conservation commitments.
Despite these obstacles, we remain optimistic. We believe that we can still fill in big parts of these significant gaps and create a more comprehensive overview of the Caribbean’s breeding seabirds. If you have the ability to complete surveys in countries where our knowledge is lacking or if you are aware of important seabird breeding sites that haven’t been recently surveyed, please reach out to us. The more we can identify these gaps and the necessary resources to address them, the better equipped we will all be to make a significant impact in safeguarding these precious seabird populations.
If you have any question or need help with designing your surveys, don’t hesitate to reach out to our CSC Coordinator, Louise Soanes: caribbeanseabirdsurveys@gmail.com
You can still participate
It is not too late to get involved! If you need more information, please visit our Seabird Census webpage where you can find more information on survey techniques, field data sheets and standardized data entry forms. You will also be able to test your knowledge of Caribbean seabirds and field methods with our quizzes, which are linked to our webinar topics (you can find links all our quizzes and past webinars here)!
If you are an avid birdwatcher but conduct less formal seabird counts, we encourage you to share your eBird checklists of breeding seabirds (or any seabird sightings) with eBird username caribbeanseabirdsurveys.
What’s next?
We’ve got some exciting plans in the works. We’re planning a webinar in January 2024 to summarise and discuss the valuable seabird data we’ve gathered so far!
We will also organise a data analysis workshop at the upcoming BirdsCaribbean 24th International Conference in the Dominican Republic (DR) so that we can all get together to analyse, discuss and interpret the results as a group! Be sure tojoin our mailing list and follow us on social media at BirdsCaribbean for updates as the sessions are scheduled!
Whether or not you plan on contributing to the regional census or participating in the data analysis workshop, we warmly invite you to join us at the BirdsCaribbean conference in the DR from18-22nd July 2024. It’s an excellent opportunity to engage with the latest findings, enhance your skills, and be a part of our ongoing efforts to protect and conserve Caribbean birds.
As a growing non-profit organization operating across the entire insular Caribbean, we announced in April that we were seeking an Operations Manager who could support our day-to-day operations and contribute to the strategic growth decisions that underpin our mission, projects, and programs. We were looking for a candidate whose passions for finance, efficiency, and organization were complemented by a love for conserving our region’s unique biodiversity—when we met Alexia, we immediately knew that we had the perfect match!
Alexia Morales has over seven years of experience working in office administration. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Office Systems from the University of Puerto Rico, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Digital Marketing from NUC University. Alexia volunteers as a Social Media Manager at ConservationOpportunity, a non-profit organization that connects people with paid and volunteer opportunities in the field of environmental conservation. Alexia says, “I’m thrilled to use my skills and passion for the conservation of birds to further the mission of BirdsCaribbean.”
Alexia has always gone beyond her duties to ensure the best outcomes and productivity in her professional career, but it is what she has accomplished in her personal life that really excited us about her alignment with the BirdsCaribbean mission! Alexia is an avid birder, and three years ago, she co-founded De Pajareo, a social media initiative aimed at educating about and promoting love for Puerto Rico’s avifauna. What started with a few followers and pictures of Puerto Rico’s beautiful island birds, grew into a community of over 1,000 followers and collaborations with other nature-centered organizations, including participation in an international initiative. Speaking about her passion for showcasing the beauty and importance of birds from the island through photography, Alexia emphasizes, “After all, we take care of what we love.”
We had to take the opportunity of welcoming Alexia to chat with her about her vision for her new role, her love for conservation work, and about her birding adventures!
BC: What motivated you to join the BirdsCaribbean team?
Alexia: As I developed my passion for birds, I got the opportunity to learn about BirdsCaribbean on social media. A friend told me that they were looking for an Operations Manager. When I saw the job description and duties, I accepted the challenge and applied. And here I am, in a dream job where I can use my professional skills and passion for birds to further BirdsCaribbean’s mission!
BC: What does a typical day as BirdsCaribbean’s Operations Manager look like?
Alexia: A lot of researching—asking myself what we can do to improve our operations. Some of my main responsibilities are tracking financial transactions, bookkeeping, and maintaining up to date records; ensuring compliance with regulations; developing policies and procedures; and giving support to the many programs that we have! This position requires a strong attention to detail, good communication with a diverse workforce, managing different tasks simultaneously, and a strong passion for our mission.
BC: How does strategic operations management contribute to mission success for non-profits?
Alexia: The operations are the heart of an organization! Operations gives structure and charts a clear direction towards success and accomplishment of one’s mission. Some of the main goals of strategic operations management are to maximize efficiency within the organization, increase productivity, and ensure the delivery of high-quality service and products. For a non-profit, it’s important to ask these questions: What can we do to improve? What do we need for success? Where are our growing opportunities? Are we in compliance with regulations? That’s how an Operations Manager gets involved and takes action! The operations must be aligned with the organization’s mission—and operations will pursue all the necessary tools to fulfill the mission.
BC: How do you spend your time after a busy week of managing BirdsCaribbean’s operational processes across the region?
Alexia: I love going birding and taking pictures of our amazing avifauna, going on road trips in my beautiful Puerto Rico, and connecting with nature as it gives you peace and restoration. I love getting involved with other organization’s activities such as beach clean ups. I also like to go camping and enjoy the starry nights. Last but not least, I love to travel and appreciate birds in other countries!
BC: We’re so happy to welcome a fellow birder to the fold—we’ve got to ask—can you share one of your favorite birding experiences with us?
Alexia: For me, all the birds were once just Rock Doves, Gray Kingbirds, and Greater Antillean Grackles—I didn’t know that Puerto Rico had so many species, especially endemics! Three years ago, I went birding for the first time in Utuado, a municipality in the center of the island, and I got my first sight of a Puerto Rican Bullfinch, Puerto Rican Tody, and a Puerto Rican Screech Owl. I was amazed and happy to see them. That’s how it all began. I was so excited that I started to do bird counts at home and found out that over 40 species of birds visited my backyard. I was very impressed. I recommend this activity to everyone as I consider it as the very best therapy.
The BirdsCaribbean team is thrilled to welcome Alexia to our flock!
Enjoy Alexia’s beautiful photography below. You can see more of Alexia’s work at De Pajareo on Instagram and Facebook!
Mangrove Cuckoo, Salinas, Puerto Rico. (Alexia Morales)
BirdsCaribbean is excited to invite applications to participate in a 5-day training workshop focused on the monitoring and conservation of landbirds in the Caribbean. Through a blend of classroom and field-based activities, this comprehensive workshop will cover landbird identification, monitoring techniques, eBird data entry, and more. The workshop will take place at Rancho Baiguate in Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic from February 22-26, 2024.
Why do we need to monitor landbirds?
Our landbird species are declining, including many resident and endemic birds, as well as over 100 migratory species. Monitoring is essential to fill gaps in our knowledge about the status, trends, and habitat use of their populations.
This training workshop is part of BirdsCaribbean’s Landbird Monitoring Program that aims to build capacity to monitor and conserve landbirds in the Caribbean. The long-term goal of this program is to enhance full life cycle (i.e. year-round) conservation of Caribbean landbirds. Working with our many partners, we are building regional networks to increase landbird monitoring and research, raise awareness and appreciation of our landbirds, and enable on-the-ground conservation actions.
About the workshop
This “train the trainer” workshop is designed for Caribbean wildlife professionals and volunteers who are interested in expanding or establishing a landbird monitoring program.
The purpose of the workshop is to:
Share information on landbirds in the Caribbean and the threats that they face
Provide participants with the knowledge and skills to train a monitoring team and institute a sustainable, local landbird monitoring program
Inspire and facilitate landbird monitoring and conservation efforts, including raising public awareness, alleviating threats, and managing and restoring habitats
Build a regional network of people involved in standardized monitoring and conservation of our shared landbirds
Workshop participants will learn about the Programa de América Latina para las Aves Silvestres (PROALAS) bird survey protocols. Developed in Latin America to target tropical habitats, the manual for these protocols includes detailed guidance on designing and implementing multi-level survey methods. The manual also incorporates the use of eBird as a user-friendly data entry and storage platform, and outlines occupancy-based analysis of monitoring data.
During daily field trips, we will practice landbird identification and survey techniques. After the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to apply for a small grant to implement or expand their own landbird monitoring and conservation projects, ideally including training of others in their organizaton or community.
Bicknell’s Thrush. Classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN, 80-90% of the total population winters on Hispaniola. (Alex Berryman – ML165158591)
Fieldwork in the beautiful countryside of Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic.
Hispaniolan Trogon perched in a tree. (Photo by Jose M. Pantaleon)
Topics to be covered in the 5-day workshop include:
Overview of the PROALAS Manual survey protocols
Guidance on how to design and implement a monitoring program
Field training to identify and count landbirds
Threats to landbirds and their habitats, and strategies to conserve and manage them
Case studies for successful landbird monitoring and conservation
Data entry and use of e-bird as a data storage platform
This workshop is the third in our series aimed at increasing Caribbean capacity to monitor and conserve our region’s landbirds. It will cover many of the same topics explored in our previous Caribbean Landbird Monitoring Training workshops held in the Dominican Republic (February 2022) and St. Vincent (January 2023).
Funding and logistics
We are aiming to include approximately 24 participants in this workshop. BirdsCaribbean has funding for a limited number of need and merit-based scholarships to cover the costs of travel and participation. Participants who are able to contribute all or part of their costs can help us enhance the workshop content and allow us to include additional participants/trainers. We encourage applications from all candidates who are well suited to use this training to implement landbird monitoring programs on their home islands, regardless of their financial ability. Participants should plan to arrive in the Dominican Republic on February 21st and depart on February 27th.
Applications
If you are interested in participating in this workshop, please fill out this form by December 1, 2023.
Rancho Baiguate is an eco-lodge in the Jarabacoa valley of the Cordillera Central of the Dominican Republic. At 500m elevation, Jarabacoa is known as the “city of eternal spring,” with warm sunny days and cool refreshing evenings. Rancho Baiguate is located on the Rio Baiguate, where participants can walk through restored riparian tropical forest and mixed edge habitat within sustainable agriculture. Birds abound in these varied habitats, and participants will easily see many of Hispaniola’s charismatic endemic bird species, including the two beloved todies (Broad-billed Tody and Narrow-billed Tody) and the national bird, the Palmchat. The town of Jarabacoa is an easy 5 minute drive from the lodge, and participants can visit any of the three stunning waterfalls nearby. Field trips may include visits to nearby reserves such as Ebano Verde. After the workshop, participants are welcome to extend their stay and try any of Rancho Baiguate’s adventurous activities including white water rafting, canyoning, or horse back riding. Come learn more about landbird monitoring with some of the Dominican Republic’s finest birds!
BirdsCaribbean would like to thank J.C. Fernández-Ordóñez for Spanish translation.
Oportunidad de adiestramiento: Taller de capacitación para el monitoreo de aves terrestres en el Caribe
BirdsCaribbean se complace en invitar solicitudes para participar en un taller de capacitación de 5 días centrado en el monitoreo y la conservación de las aves terrestres en el Caribe. A través de una mezcla de actividades en el aula y en el campo, este taller cubrirá la identificación de aves terrestres, técnicas de monitoreo, entrada de datos a eBird, y mucho más. El taller tendrá lugar en Rancho Baiguate en Jarabacoa, República Dominicana, del 22 al 26 de febrero de 2024.
¿Por qué necesitamos monitorear las aves terrestres?
Nuestras especies de aves terrestres están disminuyendo, incluidas muchas aves residentes y endémicas, así como más de 100 especies migratorias. El seguimiento es esencial para colmar las lagunas de nuestros conocimientos sobre el estado, las tendencias y el uso del hábitat de sus poblaciones.
Este taller de capacitación forma parte del Programa de Seguimiento de Aves Terrestres de BirdsCaribbean, cuyo objetivo es desarrollar la capacidad de seguimiento y conservación de las aves terrestres en el Caribe. El objetivo a largo plazo de este programa es mejorar la conservación del ciclo vital completo (es decir, durante todo el año) de las aves terrestres del Caribe. Trabajando con nuestros numerosos socios, estamos creando redes regionales para aumentar el seguimiento y la investigación de las aves terrestres, aumentar la concienciación y la apreciación de nuestras aves terrestres, y permitir acciones de conservación sobre el terreno.
Acerca del taller
Este taller de “formación de formadores” está dirigido a profesionales y voluntarios de la vida silvestre del Caribe interesados en ampliar o establecer un programa de seguimiento de aves terrestres.
Los objetivos del taller son:
Compartir información sobre las aves terrestres en el Caribe y las amenazas a las que se enfrentan.
Proporcionar a los participantes los conocimientos y habilidades para formar un equipo de monitoreo e instituir un programa local sostenible de monitoreo de aves terrestres.
Inspirar y facilitar los esfuerzos de monitoreo y conservación de las aves terrestres, incluyendo la sensibilización del público, la mitigación de las amenazas, y la gestión y restauración de los hábitats.
Crear una red regional de personas implicadas en el seguimiento normalizado y la conservación de las aves terrestres que compartimos.
Los participantes en el taller conocerán los protocolos de estudio de aves del Programa de América Latina para las Aves Silvestres (PROALAS). El manual de estos protocolos, desarrollado en América Latina para los hábitats tropicales, incluye orientaciones detalladas sobre el diseño y la aplicación de métodos de estudio multinivel. El manual también incorpora el uso de eBird como una plataforma de entrada y almacenamiento de datos fácil de usar, y esboza el análisis basado en la ocupación de los datos de seguimiento.
Durante las salidas diarias al campo, practicaremos técnicas de identificación y estudio de aves terrestres. Tras el taller, los participantes tendrán la oportunidad de solicitar una pequeña subvención para poner en marcha o ampliar sus propios proyectos de seguimiento y conservación de aves terrestres, incluyendo idealmente la formación de otras personas de su organización o comunidad.
Zorzal de Bicknell. Clasificado como Vulnerable por la UICN, el 80-90% de la población total pasa el invierno en La Española.
Trabajo de campo en la hermosa campiña de Jarabacoa, República Dominicana.
Trogón de La Española perchado en un árbol.
Los temas que se tratarán en el taller de 5 días incluyen:
Descripción general de los protocolos de estudio del Manual PROALAS.
Orientación sobre cómo diseñar e implementar un programa de monitoreo.
Formación sobre el terreno para identificar y contar aves terrestres.
Amenazas para las aves terrestres y sus hábitats, y estrategias para conservarlas y gestionarlas.
Casos prácticos de éxito en el seguimiento y la conservación de las aves terrestres.
Introducción de datos y uso de eBird como plataforma de almacenamiento de datos.
Este taller es el tercero de nuestra serie destinada a aumentar la capacidad del Caribe para monitorear y conservar las aves terrestres de nuestra región. Cubrirá muchos de los mismos temas explorados en nuestros anteriores talleres de capacitación en monitoreo de aves terrestres del Caribe celebrados en la República Dominicana (febrero de 2022) y San Vicente (enero de 2023).
Financiación y logística
Nuestro objetivo es contar con aproximadamente 24 participantes en este taller. BirdsCaribbean cuenta con financiación para un número limitado de becas basadas en la necesidad y el mérito para cubrir los costes de viaje y participación. Los participantes que puedan contribuir con la totalidad o parte de sus costes pueden ayudarnos a mejorar el contenido del taller y permitirnos incluir más participantes/formadores. Animamos a presentar solicitudes a todos los candidatos que estén en condiciones de aprovechar esta formación para poner en marcha programas de seguimiento de aves terrestres en sus islas de origen, independientemente de su capacidad financiera. Los participantes deberán llegar a la República Dominicana el 21 de febrero y partir el 27 de febrero.
Solicitudes
Si está interesado en participar en este taller, complete este formulario antes del 1 de diciembre de 2023.
Rancho Baiguate es un eco-lodge en el valle de Jarabacoa de la Cordillera Central de la República Dominicana. A 500 metros de altitud, Jarabacoa es conocida como la “ciudad de la eterna primavera”, con días cálidos y soleados y tardes refrescantes. Rancho Baiguate está situado en el Río Baiguate, donde los participantes pueden caminar por el bosque tropical ribereño restaurado y el hábitat de borde mixto dentro de una agricultura sostenible. Las aves abundan en estos variados hábitats, y los participantes verán fácilmente muchas de las carismáticas especies de aves endémicas de La Española, incluidos los dos queridos todies (Broad-billed Tody y Narrow-billed Tody) y el ave nacional, el Palmchat. La ciudad de Jarabacoa está a 5 minutos en coche del lodge, y los participantes pueden visitar cualquiera de las tres impresionantes cascadas cercanas. Las excursiones pueden incluir visitas a reservas cercanas como la de Ebano Verde. Después del taller, los participantes pueden prolongar su estancia y probar cualquiera de las actividades de aventura de Rancho Baiguate, como rafting, barranquismo o equitación. ¡Venga a aprender más sobre el monitoreo de aves terrestres con algunas de las mejores aves de la República Dominicana!
Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) with us in 2023! This year’s theme is “Water: Sustaining Bird Life”. Have fun learning about a new migratory bird every day. We have coloring pages, puzzles, activities, and more. Download for free and enjoy nature with your family at home.
Migratory Bird of the Day: Palm Warbler
Wood-warblers are challenging birds for most amateur birders to ID—they are small, fast-moving, and have plumage patterns that overlap across species, age and sex. However, if you are birding in open areas, and find a sparrow-sized bird, feeding on the ground, with distinctive and bright yellow undertail-coverts, wagging its tail feathers like it’s a matter of life or death—you have found a Palm Warbler!
There are two subspecies of Palm Warbler which are easily distinguished. Whilst both have grayish to olive brown upperparts, if you meet a Yellow Palm Warbler, you’ll notice that—besides their undertail coverts—their throat, breast and belly are also stunningly yellow. On the other hand, only the undertail-coverts, and sometimes the throat of the Western Palm Warbler, is vividly yellow—which contrasts with their pale breast and belly. You can also look out for faint brown streaking on the breast and flanks, and a chestnut cap in breeding plumage. Both sexes are similar, making them one of the few warbler species that are not sexually dimorphic.
Palm Warblers feed almost exclusively on the ground, searching for insects like grasshoppers, beetles, butterflies and mosquitoes during breeding season. Seeds, berries and nectar are added to their diet during the non-breeding season.
As a migratory bird, the name Palm Warbler reflects the fact that the species was first described from a specimen wintering in the Caribbean. The Palm Warbler’s non-breeding range also includes the southeast and Gulf Coast of the United States. Interestingly, this bird has a fondness for the bog and coniferous forests of Canada and the northern United States. This makes it one of the northernmost breeding species of all the New World warblers, surpassed only by its close relative, the Blackpoll Warbler.
Given its remote breeding habitat, and how difficult it is to find the nests of this bird, much remains unknown about this part of its life cycle. Peak nest building occurs around mid-May. Nests are usually constructed at the base of coniferous trees, between 5 to 30 cm above the ground. Females lay two to four eggs and take the lead in incubating the eggs and feeding nestlings, with some support provided by their mates.
Palm Warblers prefer relatively open habitats with scattered trees and dense shrubs of 1–2 m tall on both their breeding and wintering grounds. This charismatic warbler can also be found in a variety of woodland, second-growth, and thicket habitats; on the ground in savannas, open fields and lawns; and in mangroves.
Palm Warblers are not endangered, but like other nocturnal migrants, they face multiple threats from light pollution and building strikes. There is a lot we can do on a daily basis to protect this cute tail-wagging warbler: turn off the lights at night during fall and spring months, advocate for bird-friendly windows, keep your pets indoors, and provide and protect clean water sources along their migration paths. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here.
Thanks to Daniela Ventura for the text and Christine Elder for the lovely illustration!
Color in the Palm Warbler
Download the Migratory Birds of the Day Coloring Page! Use the picture above and the photos on this page as your guide, or look up pictures of the bird online or in a bird field guide if you have one. Share your colored-in page with us by posting it online and tagging us @BirdsCaribbean #WMBD2023Carib
Listen to the calls of the Palm Warbler
Palm Warblers have a thin “seep” call, which can be heard during the non-breeding season.
Puzzles of the Day
Click on the images below to do the puzzle. You can make the puzzle as easy or as hard as you like—for example, 6, 8, or 12 pieces for young children, all the way up to 1,024 pieces for those that are up for a challenge!
During the non-breeding season, Palm Warblers will join mixed species flocks to forage—look out for them with sparrows, or other migratory warblers, such as the Yellow-rumped Warbler. (Photo by Ryan Sanderson Macaulay Library-ML445341491)
The Palm Warbler was named based on a specimen collected on Hispaniola, but this warbler is far from being a year-round ‘tropical’ bird. They are one of the northernmost breeding of all warblers—only the Blackpoll Warbler breeds farther north. (Photo by Ryan Schain Macaulay Library- ML223997711)
Activity of the Day
FOR KIDS: We hope that you have been enjoying learning all about migratory birds in the Caribbean! Don’t forget that this year our theme is “Water: Sustaining Bird Life”. Many of the birds we have featured this year are under pressure, often from human activities. This means that our special migratory birds, and many of the other beautiful birds that live in the Caribbean, need your help.
All birds need water to survive so you can help by carrying out the actions in our “Pledge to Conserve Water.” You can download and print our water pledge here. Sign your name and get started helping our birds by following some of the simple water-saving actions listed in the pledge. You can hang or pin it up somewhere at home to remind you to keep saving water and helping birds and wildlife. And don’t forget to share this pledge with your family and friends!
FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of a Palm Warbler in the wild on its wintering grounds in Cuba!
Get some helpful for hints on how to identify warblers in the Caribbean: Warblers are among the most beautiful and entertaining Caribbean birds, but they can also be some of the most challenging birds to identify. Luckily naturalist, educator, and artist, Christine Elder, has some really helpful tips on what to look for as well as some amazing resources for you to use. Check out this blog post to find out more. Christine also created the beautiful artwork for our 2023 “Migratory Birds of the Day”!
Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) with us in 2023! This year’s theme is “Water: Sustaining Bird Life”. Have fun learning about a new migratory bird every day. We have coloring pages, puzzles, activities, and more. Download for free and enjoy nature with your family at home.
Migratory Bird of the Day: Short-billed Dowitcher
Sometimes bird names can be confusing—and in the case of the Short-billed Dowitcher, frankly, misleading! This medium size migratory shorebird most definitely has a LONG bill. So how did it get its odd name?
Dealing with the “Short-billed” part first, this bird has a closely related and very similar looking relative—the Long-billed Dowitcher. They have a very slightly longer bill than the Short-billed Dowitcher—a difference so subtle that it is hard to spot. Yet, these names were meant to distinguish between the two birds! In fact, the calls of these two cousins are actually the best way to tell them apart, especially when in non-breeding plumage. The Short-billed Dowitcher gives a soft “tu-tu-tu” call in contrast to the strident “keek” of the Long-billed. But it seems that the “Tu tu Dowitcher” wasn’t considered a suitable name.
Moving on to the “Dowitcher” part of the name, this is also a bit of a mystery—what does Dowitcher even mean? In the late 19th century, this bird was being hunted in North America. It seems as if Dutch and German immigrant hunters perhaps referred to them as “Deutscher” or “Duitsch” snipe (i.e. “German” or “Dutch” snipe). This may have then become “dowitcher” or “dowitch”.
Short-billed Dowitchers do have a snipe-like appearance with long straight bills, short-ish legs and a somewhat plump appearance. In breeding plumage they have mottled brown snipe-like plumage above, with pale cinnamon-brown below. In non-breeding plumage they are brownish-gray above, with a paler belly and greenish yellow legs.
Short-billed Dowitchers breed in boggy areas at the margins of boreal forests in northern Canada. They travel thousands of kilometers in Fall, stopping along the way to molt and mainly sticking to the coastline as they head south. In the Caribbean, they can be spotted in a wide range of habitats from beaches, to tidal mudflats, to flooded agricultural areas. Look out for their distinctive “sewing-machine” feeding motion, as small groups of dowitchers with their heads down plunge their bills up and down into the water and mud looking for worms and mollusks.
Short-billed Dowitcher populations are declining and the species is on the USFWS list of “Birds of Conservation Concern”. Protecting our Caribbean wetland habitats and reducing the use of insecticides (which will reduce their food sources) can help us provide places for this oddly-named bird to thrive during its migration. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here.
Thanks to Alex Sansom for the text and Christine Elder for the lovely illustration!
Color in the Short-billed Dowitcher
Download the Migratory Birds of the Day Coloring Page! Use the picture above and the photos on this page as your guide, or look up pictures of the bird online or in a bird field guide if you have one. Share your colored-in page with us by posting it online and tagging us @BirdsCaribbean #WMBD2023Carib
Listen to the calls of the Short-billed Dowitcher
Short-billed Dowitchers make a soft “tu-tu-tu” call, often as a contact call when flying together.
Puzzles of the Day
Click on the images below to do the puzzle. You can make the puzzle as easy or as hard as you like—for example, 6, 8, or 12 pieces for young children, all the way up to 1,024 pieces for those that are up for a challenge!
Even though dowitchers are a very common bird in North America , it was not until the 1930s that scientists began realize that there were two different species there! (Photo by Dorian Anderson Macaulay Library-ML187630851)
Unlike the Long-billed Dowitcher, Short-billed Dowitchers migrate in stages, first moving to intermediate areas to complete their molt, then moving on to their ultimate wintering areas. (Photo by Dorian Anderson Macaulay Library-ML116188411)
Activity of the Day
FOR KIDS: What facts can you remember about today’s migratory bird—the Short-billed Dowitcher? Test your knowledge by filling in the missing words in our Short-billed Dowitcher facts! We have given you all the correct words to use but can you put them into the right places in these fact-filled sentences?
You can re-read the information about this bird above, or search on the BirdsCaribbean webpages or online for more information about the Short-billed Dowitcher! You can also look at the photos, illustration and videos on this page to help you. When you have completed all the sentences, you can check your answers here.
FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy these videos of Short-billed Dowitchers in the wild! The first video shows bird feeding with their typical “sewing machine” foraging action, plunging their bills into the mud for worms. In the second video, you can see a flock of Short-billed Dowitchers in flight.
Learn all about how to tell a Short-billed Dowitcher from a Willet: Shorebirds can be tricky to identify, especially as they migrate through the Caribbean in their non-breeding plumage (which is often less distinctive than their breeding plumage). Short-billed Dowitchers and Willets are both commonly seen in the Caribbean in Fall, and both are long-billed and gray-ish brown—so how can we tell them apart? Find out in this blog post from bird guide Allison Caton from Grenada, who got the low-down whilst attending a week-long BirdsCaribbean, Caribbean Birding Trail (CBT) Interpretive Guide Training Workshop on Union Island in St. Vincent & the Grenadines.
Note that the same proposal cannot be submitted for more than one award in a given year.
BirdsCaribbean’s general Grant Application Guidelines are available here.
Learn more about the eligibility criteria of each program by visiting their respective websites.
Seeking Donors
BirdsCaribbean encourages others to consider endowments or other large awards to ensure that our grants programs continue indefinitely. You may also make a donation to support our work. BirdsCaribbean is a tax-deductible organization in the United States.
Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) with us in 2023! This year’s theme is “Water: Sustaining Bird Life”. Have fun learning about a new migratory bird every day. We have coloring pages, puzzles, activities, and more. Download for free and enjoy nature with your family at home.
Migratory Bird of the Day: Northern Shoveler
Spoony. Bootlips. Souplips. Hollywood Mallard. We could only be talking here about the magnificent Northern Shoveler! This dabbing duck has earned these nicknames due to its huge shovel-shaped bill, which, if you have a vivid imagination, looks like the bird is grinning.
Breeding male Northern Shovelers have an iridescent green head and neck, bright white chest and breast, and rusty colored belly and sides. Their wings have a gray-blue shoulder patch, which is separated from a brilliant green speculum by a tapered white stripe. The bill is black, and the legs and feet are orange. Females have a light brownish head with a blackish crown and a mottled brown body. Their powdery-blue shoulder patch is sometimes visible at rest. The bill is orange and speckled with black dots.
In North America, they fly south to winter at lower altitudes. They fly from the iconic Rocky Mountains down to California and Mexico in late August or early September. Some will also fly east to winter along the Atlantic Coast, down to the Gulf Coast and the Caribbean. Look out for these dandy ducks on your island at wetlands, flooded fields, agricultural ponds, and wastewater treatment ponds.
Northern Shovelers feed by dabbling and sifting in shallow water. Their large bills have more than 100 lamellae (fine comb-like serrations) along the edges which allows them to filter out aquatic invertebrates, seeds and plants from pond water. They swim occasionally with their head under water, or tip-up, and sometimes even dive to feed underwater. Feeding groups and also lone birds will swim in tight rotating circles to stir up the water and bring food items to the surface.
Males give a wheezy “took-took” call during courtship, in flight, and when alarmed. Females on the other hand give a nasal-sounding quack during courtship and throughout the breeding season.
Females build their nest, which is a shallow depression on the ground, within 150 feet of water, and line it with downy feathers. Their clutch size is 8-12 greenish-gray eggs. If threatened by predators or disturbed by humans, females will poop on their eggs. Stinky? Yes, but also quite effective at making sure predators think twice about getting close to those eggs!
Habitat loss and degradation caused by development, climate change, and pollution are major threats to the Northern Shoveler, both on their breeding and wintering grounds. The good news is that whether you’re in the city or rural areas, you can adopt several behaviors that can have a positive impact on wetlands. This includes volunteering for wetland restoration projects, planting native plants, ditching the chemical pesticides, recycling your waste, checking your pipes and fittings regularly for any leakages, and harvesting rainwater. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here.
Thanks to Aliya Hosein for the text and Christine Elder for the lovely illustration!
Color in the Northern Shoveler
Download the Migratory Birds of the Day Coloring Page! Use the picture above and the photos on this page as your guide, or look up pictures of the bird online or in a bird field guide if you have one. Share your colored-in page with us by posting it online and tagging us @BirdsCaribbean #WMBD2023Carib
Listen to the calls of the Northern Shoveler
Male Northern Shovelers make a “took-took” call during courtship, in-flight, and as an alarm call.
Puzzles of the Day
Click on the images below to do the puzzle. You can make the puzzle as easy or as hard as you like—for example, 6, 8, or 12 pieces for young children, all the way up to 1,024 pieces for those that are up for a challenge!
Female Northern Shoveler. Did you know that Northern Shovelers are monogamous? They form bonds on the wintering grounds and stay together during breeding until just before fall migration. (Photo by Neil Rucker, Macaulay Library-ML281986781)
Male Northern Shoveler. The odd shaped bill that gives this duck its name has fine projections (called lamellae) along the edges that filter out tiny crustaceans, seeds, and aquatic invertebrates from the water when feeding. (Photo by Brad-Imhoff, Macaulay Library-ML217711091)Male Northern Shoveler in flight. These ducks don’t just occur in the Americas—they also breed across Europe, and spend the winter throughout Europe, Africa, and India. (Photo by Frank Lake, Macaulay Library-ML448025311)
Activity of the Day
FOR KIDS: Every year Environment For The Americas (EFTA) selects several bird species to feature for World Migratory Bird Day. These species all migrate through or within the Americas. Several of these birds will pass through or spend the winter in the Caribbean. This year, the featured “Caribbean migratory birds” included the Osprey, Barn Swallow, Northern Waterthrush, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Wilson’s Phalarope, American White Pelican and of course today’s featured bird, the Northern Shoveler (click to find out more about each bird!).
EFTA also made a fantastic and fun activity book for you to enjoy full of interesting facts about birds and water, coloring pages and many other water and migration related games and puzzles. You can find them all to download here. This activity book is in both English and Spanish, and features beautiful bird art by Augusto Silva—Enjoy!
FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of Northern Shovelers feeding in the wild!
Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) with us in 2023! This year’s theme is “Water: Sustaining Bird Life”. Have fun learning about a new migratory bird every day. We have coloring pages, puzzles, activities, and more. Download for free and enjoy nature with your family at home.
Migratory Bird of the Day: Swainson’s Thrush
If you’re not looking carefully in the forest understory, you might miss the Swainson’s Thrush! These brown, spotted thrushes blend in well amongst forest foliage, but there is no mistaking their beautiful, flutelike, upward spiraling song.
Swainson’s Thrushes fall within a genus of birds known as Catharus thrushes. These thrushes are known for foraging low to the ground. They all have a spotted breast and a solid brown back of rust or olive, that varies in shade between species. Other thrushes within this genus include the Hermit Thrush, Veery, Gray-cheeked Thrush, and of course, our Caribbean overwintering Bicknell’s Thrush. Swainson’s Thrush can be distinguished from the others by their buffy colored eye rings and buffy coloration in the lores (between the eye and bill) which give these birds the appearance of wearing buffy spectacles!
Unlike their counterparts, Swainson’s Thrushes use more aerial fly catching techniques to obtain their insect prey—though they are quite fond of fruits during their migration. They also forage higher off the ground in comparison to other Catharus thrushes.
Did you know that there are actually eight different forms of Swainson’s Thrush all differing slightly in coloration? This has led to the recognition of different subspecies. Typically they all fall within the russet-backed and olive-backed forms. Interestingly enough, it’s hypothesized that these different subspecies might actually take different migratory routes and even overwinter in different locations! Russet-backed birds typically overwinter in Middle America while olive-backed birds continue to South America.
These birds can spend the winter anywhere from Southern Mexico to Northern Argentina! There is an international collaborative project currently underway which uses Motus technology to tag Swainson’s Thrush at different spots along their migration to better understand which routes different subspecies are taking. Banding data has shown us that Eastern and Western populations both take different routes and overwinter in different locales. The same populations might even take different routes in the spring and the fall! We’re excited to see what insights Motus technology can give us about these long distance migrants. Be sure to check out the Caribbean Motus Collaboration to learn more about how this technology is being used to understand migratory movements in the Caribbean.
Within the Caribbean, we typically see Swainson’s Thrushes during their fall migration. The Eastern populations will sometimes pass through Western Cuba on their way south. They’re considered a rare transient to other areas in the Western Greater Antilles, Cayman Islands, and the Northern Bahamas.
After finishing their spring migration, Swainson’s Thrushes breed in northern spruce forests, and in California in riparian woodlands. Although still considered one of the most abundant birds of northern spruce forests, their populations have been steadily declining. The reasons for this are unclear, but could be attributed to high predation rates leading to low nest success. But it is likely that habitat changes, especially on their wintering grounds, could be a major factor.
Thanks to Holly Garrod for the text and Christine Elder for the lovely illustration!
Color in the Swainson’s Thrush
Download the Migratory Birds of the Day Coloring Page! Use the picture above and the photos on this page as your guide, or look up pictures of the bird online or in a bird field guide if you have one. Share your colored-in page with us by posting it online and tagging us @BirdsCaribbean #WMBD2023Carib
Listen to the calls of the Swainson’s Thrush
Swainson’s Thrush has a frog-like “peep” call. You might also hear its distinctive ascending, flute-like song.
Puzzles of the Day
Click on the images below to do the puzzle. You can make the puzzle as easy or as hard as you like—for example, 6, 8, or 12 pieces for young children, all the way up to 1,024 pieces for those that are up for a challenge!
Male Swainson’s Thrushes have “sing-offs” during the breeding season, which can lead to chases and even occasionally to physical attacks. (Photo by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren)Swainson’s Thrushes have been called “mosquito thrushes” because of their habit of chasing after flying insect prey while feeding on their breeding grounds. (Photo by Eric Ellingson)
On their wintering grounds in particular, Swainson’s Thrushes will add fruits to their insect diet. They can also often be found attending army-ant swarms. (Photo by Mick Thompson)
Activity of the Day
FOR KIDS: The Swainson’s Thrush is quite a rare migrant bird in the Caribbean, which means that it is a bird that is hard to see here. But don’t worry, there are lots of beautiful migrant birds to look out for at this time of the year. From long-billed shorebirds flocking on the beaches, to the colorful gems of warblers flitting amongst the trees, there is so much to see!
When it comes to knowing who is who when out looking for birds, field guides and webpages with colorful illustrations, helpful maps and detailed descriptions of each bird are really useful. But these are not the only tools available to you! Have you heard of the Merlin Bird ID app? When you see a bird, you just answer some simple questions about it, and the app helps you work out what bird you have spotted! Merlin Bird ID can also help you ID a bird from a photo you have taken or a recording of the birds song! Why not head out and look for some migratory birds and then use the Merlin Bird ID app to lend a helping hand? We have handy instructions what to look for and how to use the app here. So grab you phone, binocular and camera and see what you can find!
FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of Swainson’s Thrush taking a drink in the wild!
Birdwatching is a hobby that can be enjoyed by everyone. Being in nature with a group of like-minded people can be particularly rewarding. But access to these spaces and events are not equal, especially for people with disabilities and chronic illness. There is still a tendency to make the assumption that disability access and wheelchair access are one and the same.
Birdabilityis a non-profit organization founded by Virginia Rose, who fell off a horse at the age of 14 and has used a wheelchair since then. She began birding 17 years ago and wanted to share her passion and joy with others with disability challenges. Inspired by movements such as #BlackBirdersWeek, Virginia founded Birdability in 2020. Birdability’s vision is that birding is for everyone—including those with disabilities and other health concerns. It is supported by National Audubon in the U.S. and many other organizations and businesses.
The organization focuses on people with mobility challenges, blindness or low vision, chronic illness, intellectual or developmental disabilities, mental illness, and those who are neurodivergent, deaf or hard of hearing, or have other health concerns. Information and resources to help the birding community be more mindful and inclusive of these birders who may sometimes feel left out can be found on its website.
Founder and President of Birdability, Virginia Rose. (Photo credit: birdability.org)
Birdability Week (16th-22nd October 2023) offers the opportunity for birding groups, non-governmental organizations, and groups of family and friends to host an accessible bird outing. With some thoughtful planning this event can be enjoyable for every body. In the past, our partners in Antigua and Barbuda and the Dominican Republic have held CEBF birding events for persons with disabilities. In Puerto Rico, local NGO SOPI’s (Sociedad Ornitólogica Puertorriqueña) birding event for blind youth allowed participants to “see” birds by handling carved wooden birds. We would love to see more of these events taking place throughout the region.
Watch the Birds or Follow the Birdsong—Birding is for ALL
Help Put Accessible Birding Locations in the Caribbean on the Map!
There is also a Birdability Site Map which allows you to search for accessible sites near you. The majority of the locations are in North America and a few have been identified in Central America and South America. If you know of accessible birding locations on your island we encourage you to complete on-site, in-person Birdability Site Reviews and add them to the Birdability Map.
Birdability Site Map showing locations of nature reserves and parks with varying degrees of accessibility.
Attend a Virtual Event and Connect with Differently Abled Birders
There are a number of in-person and virtual events already scheduled—from panel discussions about accessibility challenges to field sketching and bird trivia for Birdability Week. This year, the Birdability team is also launching a digital series to showcase accessible birding experiences from around the world! They are looking for birders like yourself to take a video or write about an accessible location outside of the U.S. to be featured on their YouTube channel and website.
Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) with us in 2023! This year’s theme is “Water: Sustaining Bird Life”. Have fun learning about a new migratory bird every day. We have coloring pages, puzzles, activities, and more. Download for free and enjoy nature with your family at home.
Migratory Bird of the Day: American White Pelican
If you look to the sky and spot a flock of large, conspicuously white birds, with black flight feathers, yellow bills and legs, soaring gracefully on broad, stable wings—no doubt, you have found a flock of American White Pelicans! These beautiful birds are easy to identify with their huge size, large pinkish-yellow bill, and white coloration. If the bill is gray instead of yellow, then you have spotted an immature bird in its first year! You will never, however, confuse this bird with its cousin, the Brown Pelican. Whilst they share part of their geographic distribution, and may be found together in wetlands, the Brown Pelican is smaller, with a darker coloration and a completely different feeding behavior.
When feeding, American White Pelicans obtain their food by dipping their bills into the water and scooping up fish, their main prey. This is usually done in very shallow freshwaters, although they will also feed in saline waters. The Brown Pelican feeds on fish as well, however, they plunge-dive from high up in the air, using the force of impact to stun small fish before scooping them up.
If you visit the shallow lagoons that pelicans prefer, you can observe each species feeding in their own way. Brown Pelicans look for food alone, each bird swooping down rapidly to catch their prey. White Pelicans forage cooperatively, using clever group strategies to capture fish. Coordinated flocks of swimming birds work together to encircle fish and herd them into the shallows where they become concentrated and can be more easily caught with synchronized bill dipping. Their enormous bills with elastic, expandable, pouches below then come into play—the pelicans scoop prey again and again into their pouch, an amazing spectacle when hundreds of these birds are feeding together!
This species breeds in western and central North America, laying two white eggs in a nest constructed in the soil. They are attentive caregivers to their young—from the moment the chicks hatch, both parents spend the day looking for fresh food to help them grow. By three weeks of age they are more mobile and parents begin to leave their nests unattended, coming back only to bring food. At this age, the young birds begin to form creches, for protection and warmth.
During autumn the species migrates south, spending the winter in southern California, the Gulf States, Mexico, and Central America. Most literature states that American White Pelicans are vagrant in the West Indies, with very few reports. Some researchers even say that they do not cross oceanic waters, but news flash: this information is no longer accurate! They do cross the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf and they are now common birds in Cuba! In February 2021, citizen scientists in Cuba recorded 1,700 individuals in one aquaculture farm in the Pinar del Río Province in western Cuba. A resident population of about 300 lives year-round in the wetlands of Los Palacios in the same province, and during winter migration they are common in most Cuban coastal wetlands in the western part of the country, for example, Zapata Swamp. Visit eBird Caribbean to observe all these recent sightings.
Thanks to Lourdes Mugica for the text and Christine Elder for the lovely illustration!
Color in the American White Pelican
Download the Migratory Birds of the Day Coloring Page! Use the picture above and the photos on this page as your guide, or look up pictures of the bird online or in a bird field guide if you have one. Share your colored-in page with us by posting it online and tagging us @BirdsCaribbean #WMBD2023Carib
Listen to the calls of the American White Pelican
Adult American White Pelicans are usually silent, especially when not breeding. At breeding colonies you might hear them give frequent low, brief grunts.
Puzzles of the Day
Click on the images below to do the puzzle. You can make the puzzle as easy or as hard as you like—for example, 6, 8, or 12 pieces for young children, all the way up to 1,024 pieces for those that are up for a challenge!
American White Pelicans cooperate when feeding. Sometimes, large groups gather in wetlands. They coordinate their swimming to drive schooling fish toward the shallows. (Photo by Michael Stubblefield Macaulay Library- ML554648261)
When While Pelicans are on their wintering grounds they only search for food during the day, but in the breeding season, they commonly head out fishing at night. (Photo by Mick Thompson)
American White Pelican in flight. (Photo by Cristina Avila Macaulay Library- ML538260461)
Activity of the Day
FOR KIDS: Can you find the words in our American White Pelican word search? Remind yourself of some of the interesting facts about this water-loving migratory bird as you look for all 15 hidden words!
Remember the words may appear forwards and backwards, as well as horizontal, vertical and diagonal! Need some help? Or want to check your answers? You can see where all the words were here.
FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy these videos of American White Pelicans in the wild! In the first video, you can see what this bird looks like when it is flying.
In the second video, you can see a couple of birds in their winter plumage swimming.
Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) with us in 2023! This year’s theme is “Water: Sustaining Bird Life”. Have fun learning about a new migratory bird every day. We have coloring pages, puzzles, activities, and more. Download for free and enjoy nature with your family at home.
Migratory Bird of the Day: Wilson’s Warbler
This spritely migratory bird with the bad toupée is the Wilson’s Warbler. It is one of the smallest warblers at around 10-12cm long and weighing 5-10g.
Its plumage is mainly yellowish-olive, with a golden yellow throat and belly. It has beady black eyes and a small, thin beak. Adult males have a glossy black cap on their heads; the cap on females and juvenile males is highly variable but usually duller and more olive colored. These little birds are insectivorous, feeding on various arthropods on tree leaves and branches. They often hover in front of leaves as they try to capture a tasty insect morsel!
Wilson’s Warblers breed in the western United States, across Canada, and also in Alaska. It is a ground-nesting species that loves scrubby habitats and thickets near streams. Their clutch size ranges from 2-7 eggs and they are capable of breeding twice in a season. Only females incubate the eggs and brood nestlings (chicks), but males help feed nestlings and fledglings (chicks that have grown feathers and are learning to fly).
By August they leave their breeding grounds and begin their fall migration to Central America and islands in the northern Caribbean—The Bahamas, Jamaica, Cuba, Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic. During migration they use many types of habitats, from lowland thickets near streams to high-elevation cloud forests. On their wintering grounds they supplement their diet of squirmy, slimy, crunchy insects with “honeydew”—a sugary liquid secreted by some insects as they feed on plant sap.
The Wilson’s Warbler is not threatened but is listed as a “Common bird in steep decline” by the Partners in Flight organization. This is because of habitat loss on both their breeding and wintering grounds, predation from invasive species like domesticated cats, and nest parasitism. Helping Wilson’s Warblers, and other birds, can be as simple as keeping pet cats indoors and using a leash and harness when outdoors; and supporting the efforts of bird advocacy groups and NGOs that are working to restore and protect habitats across the Wilson’s Warbler’s range.Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here.
The Wilson’s Warbler
‘I’m a tiny warbler,
With beady black eyes,
A black cap on my head,
And energetic for my size,
I breed in mountain meadows,
And thickets near streams,
I winter in Central America,
A vagrant in the West Indies,
Because of habitat loss,
My species is in decline,
Please protect my forest home,
Before I run out of time”
Thanks to Scott Johnson for the text and poem, and Christine Elder for the lovely illustration!
Color in the Wilson’s Warbler
Download the Migratory Birds of the Day Coloring Page! Use the picture above and the photos on this page as your guide, or look up pictures of the bird online or in a bird field guide if you have one. Share your colored-in page with us by posting it online and tagging us @BirdsCaribbean #WMBD2023Carib
Listen to the calls of the Wilson’s Warbler
The call of the Wilson’s Warbler is a husky chip. You may also hear the male as they start to sing on their wintering grounds. The song is a rapid string of similar notes, dropping in pitch toward the end.
Puzzles of the Day
Click on the images below to do the puzzle. You can make the puzzle as easy or as hard as you like—for example, 6, 8, or 12 pieces for young children, all the way up to 1,024 pieces for those that are up for a challenge!
Female Wilson’s Warbler. Look for this bird in tangles of vegetation along streams or ponds or even forested edges. (Photo by Arlene Ripley Macaulay Library-ML176994031)Male Wilson’s Warbler. Wilson’s Warblers tend to be brighter yellow in the West and paler yellow in the East. Pacific Coast populations have the brightest yellow, almost orange, foreheads and faces. (Photo by Rick Evets)
Activity of the Day
FOR KIDS: This year the theme for World Migratory Bird Day is “Water: Sustaining Bird Life.” We want to highlight the importance of water conservation to both humans and birds.
We often see birds flying, preening, bathing and feeding. You might not have ever seen a bird taking a drink of water but they do!
Birds need water just as much as we do. Drinking water helps them regulate bodily processes like digestion. Water also keeps birds clean and cool on hot days when they take a splish-splash in a puddle, gutter, or backyard bird bath. Many birds also rely on wetland habitats, such as our ponds, salinas, marshes, mangroves, rivers, and coastal waters.
In our activity you can create your own poster to show how important water is to birds. Draw in the various ways birds use water!
FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy these videos of Wilson’s Warblers in the wild! In the first, you can see a lovely, brightly colored male. In the second, a Wilson’s Warbler takes a bath—one of the many things birds need water for as they migrate!
Read all about a bird banding adventure in Oregon! Caribbean biologist Zoya travelled all the way from Grenada to the US to learn more about studying birds using bird banding. Wilson’s Warbler was one of many bird species that Zoya was able to get up close to on her way to passing her NABC (North American Banding Council) exam and becoming a certified Bander. Find out all about her experiences in the blog below.
A Summer Tanager, a migrant to the Caribbean, is featured on our October Big Day 2023 promo graphic.
October Big Day comes just once a year!And it’s always about community, and our love of birds.
Here at BirdsCaribbean, we believe in October Big Day—which this year coincides with World Migratory Bird Day—WMBD (Saturday, October 14, 2023). It is an opportunity for birders across the region to focus, deploy those binoculars, cameras and scopes, and share information (especially on eBird Caribbean!)
Whether you are quietly observing from your verandah or balcony, on a family outing with the kids, or on an organized trip to a birding hotspot, we invite you to make the most of those 24 hours on October 14. But wait! Note that Global Bird Weekend is also happening over October 13, 14 and 15, which offers up even more possibilities. We are hoping that the world record created last October on Global Bird Weekend (and broken on May 13 this year for the Global Big Day) will be smashed once again. Let’s do it!
Where are the birds, and what are they doing?
Data collected on October Big Day will be used by birders and scientists to better understand and protect birds. This is also an opportunity for the individual birdwatcher to contemplate birds, their behavior, and the places where they may be found. For example, are there birds you are only likely to see in the late morning or early afternoon? And if so, are they at specific locations? Tanagers and bullfinches are often very active during the morning hours. As the day heats up, you may see raptors soaring above. Seagulls and shorebirds can be observed at almost any time of day. Migratory warblers generally show up in early morning or evening hours, feeding and bathing in suburban gardens and parks.
Make your birding count—submit & share your data!
Participating is easy with the essential tool, eBird, where you should record all the birds you see (and even hear) on Saturday 14th October via the eBird website or mobile app. If you’re in the Caribbean, be sure to use eBird Caribbean (and choose the eBird Caribbean portal in your eBird app settings on mobile). If you do not already have one, it’s easy to sign up for a free eBird account—here’s a quick guide on how to use eBird. Eager birders should spot as many birds as they can from midnight to midnight in their local time zone on October 14; or bird anytime during the weekend of Oct. 13-15 for the Global Bird Weekend. The handy mobile app allows you to keep and submit lists while you’re still out birding, perhaps exploring nearby Hotspots. It will even track how far you have walked while watching birds. Remember to submit eBird checklists before October 17, 2023 to be included in the initial results announcement!
Share your sightings with us, and join BirdsCaribbean!
We look forward to seeing your stories and photos on social media. You can find us on Facebook and on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram @birdscaribbean. Be sure to tag us! If you’re not on social media, consider joining our discussion group where you’ll be able to share your October Big Day experience with over 850 members.
May we remind you that BirdsCaribbean membership has so many benefits; you will receive discounts on our products, workshops and conferences; meet and network with fellow birders, scientists, educators and conservationists across the region; and keep in touch with birding trends and news through our monthly newsletters (free sign-up here). Join us today and help us save our Caribbean birds and their important habitats!
See you on October Big Day 2023—and let’s see some birds!
Most importantly, have fun and don’t forget to tag BirdsCaribbean (@BirdsCaribbean) in your birding adventures! We can’t wait to see which of our migratory friends have arrived to the Caribbean!
We are delighted to inform you that we have partnered with The Cornell Lab of Ornithology to provide free access to Birds of the World to anyone within the Caribbean islands!* Just login to your existing eBird/Cornell account, or create a new eBird/Cornell accountto access Birds of the World for free!
BirdsCaribbean members outside the Caribbean can receive a 25% discount on a personal subscription plan, using the coupon code BC25 (current paid-up BC members have free access through the end of 2023). The Cornell Lab of Ornithology also provides complimentary access to certain user groups under their Birds of the World Digital Access Scholarship. If you fit into any of the categories, be sure to reach out to them.
Every Bird has a Story
Birds of the World (BOW) is the largest online ornithology resource with comprehensive life history information on 10,906 species and 249 families of the world’s birds. BOW brings together scholarly content from four celebrated works of ornithology, including Birds of North America, Neotropical Birds,The Handbook of Birds of the World, Neotropical Birds, and the Internet Bird Collection (IBC), among others, to provide an in-depth scholarly account for every species. With the integration of millions of bird observations from eBird and stunning images from the Macaulay Library, BOW is the most powerful ornithological resource ever created. It’s a single platform where biologists, birders, and anyone with an interest in birds can explore comprehensive life history information on birds.
Content includes topics such as identification, plumages and molt, taxonomy, distribution, habitat, diet, behavior, breeding, movement, conservation and management, and more. All species accounts have range maps and a growing number have “intelligent maps”—science-based abundance maps and animated migration maps (created from eBird data). Magnificent colour plates from many of the world’s top illustrators are backed up by the massive Macaulay Library resource – a media asset of photographs, video and audio recording. Every species displays its IUCN conservation status and additional ornithological notes as appropriate. The common species names are even available in more than 50 languages!
And here’s a neat feature – because it is linked to eBird, when you are logged into Birds of the World each species account shows a blue badge indicating whether or not you’ve seen, photographed, or taken audio recordings of the bird. If you’re not yet an eBird user, now is a perfect time to sign up and start using this wonderful app to find birds, keep track of the birds, and contribute to science! And if you’re in the Caribbean be sure to use our special eBird Caribbean portal.
Since all of the information has been vetted and can be accessed from a single platform, you will save time spent on endlessly searching and comparing facts across different websites and other sources, reduce costs associated with research (citations are listed and linked to publications where available!), correctly identify birds and improve your birding skills, master bird taxonomy, or keep up with the latest bird news, webinars and research through the exciting science news blog.
One overriding feature of the resource is that it will be constantly revised by ornithologists to include the latest taxonomic revisions and latest information about each species.
Access in the Caribbean is enabled by the efforts of a large number of expert birdwatchers and ornithologists across the region who work with BirdsCaribbean to write, update, and curate Caribbean species accounts. The list of active accounts will continue to be updated as more articles are written, so make sure to check this space regularly for our Caribbean Birds!
In exchange for free access to all Caribbean birders, we have agreed to adopt and update a set of the Caribbean species each year. So would you like to contribute to Birds of the World? BOW is keen to use species experts to help author the species accounts. If you are interested in helping or would like to learn more, contact: Caroline Pott, BirdsCaribbean’s Birds of the World Coordinator, and Stefan Gleissberg, Managing Editor of the Journal of Caribbean Ornithology. Thanks to all for your contributions!
*Included locations are: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Caribbean Netherlands, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Curaçao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, Montserrat, Puerto Rico, Saint Barthélemy, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Martin (French part), Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sint Maarten, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, British Virgin Islands, and U.S. Virgin Islands.
Anyone in this area currently subscribed to Birds of the World, who now wants free access, should actively cancel their subscription in order to avoid future charges. Go here to do this.
Join or renew your membership with BirdsCaribbean!
If you’re not a current member, we encourage you to join BirdsCaribbean or renew your membership today! Membership benefits include discounts on our meetings, programs, and materials; the opportunity to meet and network with scientists, birders, educators, and conservationists across the region; and the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping in our urgent fight to save habitats from destruction and birds from extinction. Your membership also supports the Journal of Caribbean Ornithology, an open access, peer-reviewed journal covering all aspects of ornithology within the Caribbean region. Any questions about your membership, contact Delores Kellman, Administrative Assistant, BirdsCaribbean.
Current paid-up BC members outside the Caribbean have free access through the end of 2023. New and renewing BirdsCaribbean members outside the Caribbean can receive a 25% discount on a personal subscription plan, using the coupon code BC25 (those within the Caribbean have free access).
Your membership helps our efforts to raise awareness, train and mentor conservation professionals, support research and monitoring, and engage people in citizen science and conservation actions. We look forward to welcoming new members as well as welcoming back lapsed members!
Mark Your Calendars and plan to attend! Featured birds: Broad-billed Tody by Dax Roman; Palmchat; Hispaniolan Woodpecker by Jose M Pantaleon; Hispaniolan Emerald by Dax Roman E.
BirdsCaribbean conferences bring together Caribbean and international wildlife professionals, ornithologists, educators, decision makers, the eco-tourism industry, community leaders, students, volunteers, and many others to network, share information, and learn about the latest research and innovative initiatives to conserve Caribbean birds and their habitats. ALL are welcome!
Our local host is Grupo Jaragua (GJ), a Dominican non-profit organization that is dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity in Hispaniola, using the best available science in collaboration with local communities. Working together with GJ and other local partners, we look forward to welcoming you to the DR in July 2024!
*Drumroll please* Unveiling our Theme!
The conference organizing committee has chosen the theme: From Mangroves to Mountains—Safeguarding our Avian Treasures. This theme celebrates the incredible variety of habitats and endemic birds found in Hispaniola (the second largest island in the Caribbean, which includes Dominican Republic and Haiti). Thirty-four species of birds are endemic to this island—that is, they are found nowhere else in the world. It is also home to an additional 17 regional endemics and provides critical stopover and wintering habitats for over 100 migratory species, like the threatened Bicknell’s Thrush.
View along the way to Constanza, Dominican Republic. (Photo by Ted Lee Eubanks)
The theme calls attention to the diverse habitats in Hispaniola where these birds live—from the coastal mangroves and wetlands, across striking pine savannas to lush cloud forests in the mountains, where one may sleep comfortably under a down blanket in July! These habitats must be protected not only for birds, but also for people. They provide critical ecosystem services, such as protection from storms and floods, clean air and water, and food; as well as opportunities for recreation, education, and cultural enrichment.
Bicknell’s Thrush. (Photo by Dax Roman)
Palmchat. (Photo by Dax Roman)
Hispaniolan Trogon. (Photo by Dax Roman)
With this theme, we hope to raise awareness throughout the island about the beauty and value of nature in Hispaniola, exemplified by its magnificent bird life. We must all be guardians and take care of our avian treasures. If we take care of nature, nature will take care of us.
Agenda Highlights: What to Expect
As usual, our five-day conference will offer a range of exciting symposia, technical paper sessions, workshops, keynote speakers, and round-table discussions. We will share the latest science, conservation, management techniques, education, and community engagement projects that help raise awareness, protect habitats, and conserve birds. We will also organize pre-, post-, and mid-conference field trips to visit the most spectacular birding hotspots all over the country—giving delegates the chance to enjoy Hispaniola’s incredible birds and breathtaking landscapes.
Of course, the conference will offer invaluable opportunities to network with and learn from colleagues working in a variety of fields across the Caribbean and beyond. As those who have attended our conferences in the past can attest, our biennial gatherings are “the best” and “not to be missed!” (in the video below, check out a few comments by delegates at our conference in Guadeloupe).
Planning for the conference is well underway. Our conference website can be found here, where details on the program, logistics, conference field trips, travel scholarships, accommodations, and registration will be added soon. Keep an eye out also for the Call for Keynote Speakers, and Call for Proposals for Workshops, Symposia, Round-table Discussions, and call for abstracts for oral and poster presentations. For now we want to encourage you to spread the word and block these dates off in your calendar.
By the way, if you haven’t done so already, please sign up for our BirdsCaribbean listserve – the best place to receive up-to-date news and information regarding the conference. We also also share all announcements on our social media so please follow us! (@BirdsCaribbean on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Linked In and YouTube). Finally, please sign up for our monthly newsletter. We’re looking forward to seeing you in the Dominican Republic!
#BirdsCarib2024DR
More about our local host, Grupo Jaragua:Since 1989, Grupo Jaragua has worked on the conservation of threatened species and ecosystems, advocacy, education, and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in Hispaniola. Key programs have focused on the conservation of the threatened Black-capped Petrel and Hispaniolan Parrot. Learn more here.
¡Reserva la fecha! 24ª Conferencia Internacional de BirdsCaribbean en la República Dominicana
¡Marque su calendario y haga planes para asistir! Aves destacadas: Broad-billed Tody por Dax Roman; Palmchat; Hispaniolan Woodpecker por Jose M Pantaleon; Hispaniolan Emerald por Dax Roman E.
Nuestro anfitrión será el Grupo Jaragua (GJ), una organización local sin fines de lucro que se dedica a la conservación de la biodiversidad de La Española, en colaboración con comunidades locales y apoyándose en la ciencia. ¡Trabajando juntos con GJ y otros socios locales, esperamos darles la bienvenida en la República Dominicana en julio 2024!
Las conferencias de BirdsCaribbean reúnen a profesionales de vida silvestre, ornitólogos, educadores, tomadores de decisiones, industria del ecoturismo, líderes comunitarios, estudiantes, voluntarios y muchos otros del Caribe e internacionales para establecer conexiones, compartir información y aprender sobre lo último en investigaciones e iniciativas innovadoras para la conservación de las aves del Caribe y sus hábitats. ¡TODOS son bienvenidos!
Redoble de tambores, por favor: Revelando el tema de la Conferencia
El comité al mando de la conferencia seleccionó el tema: Del Manglar a la Montaña: Protegiendo nuestras Preciadas Aves. Este tema celebra la increíble variedad de hábitats y aves endémicas de La Española (la segunda isla más grande del Caribe, la cual incluye a la República Dominicana y Haití). Treinta y cuatro especies de aves endémicas de esta isla – es decir, que no se encuentran en ninguna otra parte del mundo. También es hogar de 17 otras aves endémicas regionales, y proporciona hábitats y paradas de reposo para más de 100 especies de aves migratorias, como el amenazado Zorzal de Bicknell.
Vista a lo largo del camino a Constanza, República Dominicana. (Foto de Ted Lee Eubanks)
El tema llama a la atención de los diversos hábitats en La Española donde viven estas aves – desde los manglares costeros y humedales, hasta las magníficas sabanas de pinar que llevan a los bosques nublados de montaña, ¡donde hasta en julio se puede dormir cómodamente bajo una manta! Estos hábitats deben protegerse no solo para las aves, sino también para las personas. Estos proveen críticos servicios a los ecosistemas, tales como la protección contra tormentas e inundaciones, limpieza del aire y agua, alimento, oportunidades de recreación, educación, y enriquecimiento cultural.
Bicknell’s Thrush (Foto por Dax Roman)
Palmchat (Foto por Dax Roman)
Hispaniolan Trogon (Foto por Dax Roman)
Con este tema, esperamos crear conciencia sobre la belleza y el valor de la naturaleza de La Española, ejemplificada por su magnífica avifauna. Todos debemos ser guardianes y cuidar nuestras preciosas aves. Si cuidamos la naturaleza, la naturaleza cuidará de nosotros.
Agenda: Qué se Espera
Como de costumbre, nuestra conferencia de cinco días ofrecerá una gama de emocionantes simposios, sesiones de ponencias técnicas, talleres, expositores destacados y discusiones en mesas redondas. Compartiremos lo último en la ciencia, conservación, técnicas de manejo, educación, y proyectos de participación de la comunidad para crear conciencia, proteger los hábitats y conservar a las aves. También se organizarán viajes de campo pre, post y durante la conferencia para visitar los lugares de avistamiento de aves más espectaculares de todo el país – brindando la oportunidad a nuestros delegados de disfrutar de las increíbles aves y de los impresionantes paisajes de La Española.
Por supuesto, la conferencia ofrecerá invaluables oportunidades para establecer conexiones y aprender de colegas que trabajan en diversos campos de todo el Caribe y más allá. Aquellos que han asistido a nuestras pasadas conferencias, consideran que estas son “las mejores” y que “¡no se lo pueden perder!”.
La planificación de la conferencia ya está en marcha. El sitio web de la conferencia se encuentra aquí, donde pronto se ofrecerán detalles sobre el programa, la logística, las excursiones, las becas de viaje, el alojamiento y la inscripción. Esté atento también a la convocatoria de ponentes principales y de propuestas de talleres, simposios y mesas redondas, así como a la convocatoria de resúmenes para presentaciones orales y pósteres. De momento queremos animarle a que corra la voz y marque estas fechas en su calendario.
Más sobre nuestro anfitrión, Grupo Jaragua: Desde el 1989 Grupo Jaragua ha trabajado en la conservación de especies y ecosistemas en peligro, defensoría, educación y promoción de medios de vida sostenibles en La Española. Entre sus programas clave destacamos aquellos para la conservación de aves amenazadas como el diablotín y la cotorra de La Española. Para más información visita aqui.
Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) with us in 2023! This year’s theme is “Water: Sustaining Bird Life”. Have fun learning about a new migratory bird every day. We have coloring pages, puzzles, activities, and more. Download for free and enjoy nature with your family at home.
Migratory Bird of the Day: Common Nighthawk
Picture yourself on a hot and muggy summer evening, sitting out in the backyard hoping to catch a little breeze that might just keep you from drowning in your own sweat. While you’re sucking down the last drops of grandma’s ice-cold, hand-squeezed lemonade (grandma never disappoints), make an effort to look to the sky. These are the nights when you might get a look at a Common Nighthawk—or hundreds—soaring around above you as they pick off any insects that have drifted up too high.
Nighthawks, like swifts or swallows, are acrobatic flyers that can just as easily catch insects in flight as a baleen whale collects plankton in the ocean. But compared to many other aerial insectivores, nighthawks are large, which works in your favor when you’re looking to spot a few. And the other good news is that you can find them cruising the airways above cities, small towns, suburbia, and well into rural landscapes, so never skip an opportunity to look up and try your luck, wherever you are.
It’s easy to see why nighthawks have been long-standing members of the very exclusive Cool Birds Club. Let’s start with the male’s courtship “booming” behavior. When males are lookin’ for love, they fly up into the sky making a repeated “peent” noise. Then, all of a sudden, they go into a deep dive, accelerating rapidly towards the ground until they reach a point where they abruptly pull their wings forward, creating a “boom” or “whooshing” sound. Ever had your cap go flying off on a windless day? Now you know why.
Another awesome attribute is this species’ camouflage. If they are perched or lying motionless in their nest, human eyes cannot see them. They sport a mottling of very earth-toned colors, including brown, tan, black, and gray, with specklings of white. In fact, these birds blend in so well that there’s probably one looking at you right now and you don’t even know it. However, when these birds are in flight, it’s a different story! They have large scythe-shaped wings, and their dark bodies contrast well with a lighter sky behind them. Look for a very obvious white patch on the underwing to confirm that you are indeed seeing a nighthawk.
It would certainly be nice if the Common Nighthawk was a little more…common. These birds are struggling a bit, and as always, there are some easy things we can collectively do to help these birds become more numerous on our landscapes again. The call to action is as follows:
Eliminate insecticides from your life, enough said.
Plant as many and as much diversity of native plants on your landscape as you can (native plants foster higher insect and thus prey abundance).
Reduce your driving speed—something we should all be doing already in order to protect other wildlife. The roadways out there are a slaughter. Of particular importance is reducing your speed in the evenings and at night, especially on gravel or dirt roads. Nighthawks have been known to roost (i.e. rest/sleep) on these roads at night.
Thanks to Justin Proctor for the text and Christine Elder for the lovely illustration!
Color in the Common Nighthawk
Download the Migratory Birds of the Day Coloring Page! Use the picture above and the photos on this page as your guide, or look up pictures of the bird online or in a bird field guide if you have one. Share your colored-in page with us by posting it online and tagging us @BirdsCaribbean #WMBD2023Carib
Listen to the calls of the Common Nighthawk
The call of the Common Nighthawk is a distinctive nasal “neet.” Note however that this bird does not call often when it is migrating.
Puzzles of the Day
Click on the images below to do the puzzle. You can make the puzzle as easy or as hard as you like—for example, 6, 8, or 12 pieces for young children, all the way up to 1,024 pieces for those that are up for a challenge!
Common Nighthawks have one of the longest migration routes of all the birds that breed in North America. (Photo by Alex Lamoreaux Macaulay Library- ML107295391)The name “nighthawk” is a bit misleading as this bird is not strictly nocturnal— it’s active at dawn and dusk—and it is also not closely related to hawks! (Photo by Kenneth Cole Schneider)
Activity of the Day
FOR KIDS: Common Nighthawks feed on insects like beetles, flies, moths, crickets, and grasshoppers. Almost all the insects they eat are flying insects and Common Nighthawks will swoop through the air to catch them on the wing!
Can you help this hungry Common Nighthawk find its way through our maze to to grab some tasty insect food? You can find the correct route here.
FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy these videos of a Common Nighthawk in the Wild! Don’t forget to look up for these birds! Sometimes they will be resting in trees.
The second video shows what the Common Nighthawk looks like in flight.
Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) with us in 2023! This year’s theme is “Water: Sustaining Bird Life”. Have fun learning about a new migratory bird every day. We have coloring pages, puzzles, activities, and more. Download for free and enjoy nature with your family at home.
Migratory Bird of the Day: Wilson’s Phalarope
Each summer, west of the Mississippi, the Wilson’s Phalarope gathers in enormous flocks on the salt lakes of the western United States. Birders and conservationists are captivated by the species’ distinctive field marks, habitat preferences, feeding habits, and interesting natural history—including a departure from normal breeding habits!
The Wilson’s Phalarope is a small (22–24 cm in length), aquatic shorebird, with a needle-like bill and a white rump and underparts. Wilson’s Phalaropes exhibit sexual dimorphism (where males and females look very different from each other). Interestingly, females are larger and much more colorful than their male counterparts. In breeding plumage, females display a beautiful reddish-brown neck and back, contrasting with a white belly. Males, on the other hand, are more subdued in appearance, featuring a drabber overall coloration. Regardless of sex, both genders boast a distinctive white stripe running down the center of their long necks and black eye masks. During the non-breeding season, both males and females sport a more subdued plumage, of pale gray above and white below.
The Wilson’s Phalarope has a diverse and widespread distribution; its breeding range spans from western Canada down to the western United States. They breed in a range of wetland habitats, including lakes, ponds, and marshes. After laying eggs, the female typically departs, leaving the male to incubate the eggs and care for the young. This unique reversal of traditional gender roles, called “polyandry,” is an intriguing aspect of their breeding biology.
During the non-breeding season, these remarkable birds undertake impressive migrations that lead them to coastal areas of South America, particularly along the western coast. As part of their migratory route, they may also travel through the Caribbean. Our islands thus provide essential stopover points where these birds can rest and feed before continuing their long migrations.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Wilson’s Phalarope is its feeding behavior. They are adept at foraging in shallow waters, using their long, slender bills to peck at the surface. One can observe them swimming in small, rapid, circular motions. This unique swimming behavior creates a small vortex, or a whirlpool, that brings up aquatic invertebrates from the depths, providing a rich food source. Terrestrial invertebrates are also consumed.
Currently, Wilson’s Phalaropes are classified as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that they are not currently facing significant conservation threats. However, like many bird species, they are not immune to potential threats. Habitat loss due to urban development and agricultural expansion remains a concern. Additionally, disturbances to breeding and foraging areas, pollution of wetlands, and climate change induced shifts in their preferred habitats could potentially impact their populations.
You can help conserve Wilson’s Phalaropes and other wetland-dependent bird species by:
Supporting wetland protection and sustainable land use in your region.
Participating in citizen science by joining eBird! The more information that is available to researchers, the better they can help protect these precious birds.
Helping raise awareness and let people know about the importance of wetlands for birds and people!
Thanks to Susan Davis for the text and Christine Elder for the lovely illustration!
Color in the Wilson’s Phalarope
Download the Migratory Birds of the Day Coloring Page! Use the picture above and the photos on this page as your guide, or look up pictures of the bird online or in a bird field guide if you have one. Share your colored-in page with us by posting it online and tagging us @BirdsCaribbean #WMBD2023Carib
Listen to the calls of the Wilson’s Phalarope
Wilson’s Phalaropes make abrupt nasal-sounding calls to each other. These are made both as courtship and contact calls.
Puzzles of the Day
Click on the images below to do the puzzle. You can make the puzzle as easy or as hard as you like—for example, 6, 8, or 12 pieces for young children, and all the way up to 1,024 pieces for those that are up for a challenge!
The colorful female Wilson’s Phalarope in her breeding plumage.Male Wilson’s Phalarope in breeding plumage, he is less colorful than the female. ( Photo by John van Dort Macaulay Library-ML565008391)Wilson’s Phalarope in nonbreeding plumage. Wilson’s Phalaropes are one of only two species of shorebirds that stop to molt during migration rather than at their breeding grounds. (Photo by Gutierrez Maier Macaulay Library ML451123731)
Activity of the Day
FOR KIDS: Wilson’s Phalaropes make epic journeys south every year on migration! They start heading towards the Caribbean and South America in July, before the weather gets too cold and food becomes hard to find. They don’t make this trip all in one go; they make some stops along the way to rest, molt out of their breeding plumage, and take on more food. They can eat so much on some of these stops that they double their body weight!
Why not ‘Follow the Phalarope’ in our fun activity? You will learn how to map the migration routes of three Wilson’s Phalaropes all the way from North America to islands in the Caribbean! You can find the instructions and worksheet here.
FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy these videos, by Don DesJardin, of Wilson’s Phalaropes foraging in the Wild! In the first video you can see the different plumages of the brightly colored female and duller male. In the second can see the ‘spinning’ technique these birds often use when feeding.
Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) with us in 2023! This year’s theme is “Water: Sustaining Bird Life”. Have fun learning about a new migratory bird every day. We have coloring pages, puzzles, activities, and more. Download for free and enjoy nature with your family at home.
Migratory Bird of the Day: Least Tern
The tiny Least Tern is one dashing beach bum, from its brilliant yellow bill, to its crisp black-and-white head pattern, to its slender pointed wings, and forked tail. Other field marks to look for are a black cap, pale gray back, and white underparts. It is the smallest of terns in North America, reaching a length between 21cm and 23cm long (about the same size as a Northern or Tropical Mockingbird) with a wingspan of 53cm.
The Least Tern’s diet consists mainly of fish but it will also eat shrimp and other invertebrates. During the breeding season food becomes especially important to male terns. During courtship, the male will offer the female food in hopes of enticing her to choose him as a mate. Suave looks and cheesy lines won’t work on these practical females!
Once she accepts, they will begin building their nest in shallow depressions in the sand. Least Terns prefer bare or sparsely vegetated sand or dried mudflats along coasts or rivers, but they will also nest on sandy or shell islands and gravel and sand pits. Least Terns are colony nesters, meaning they nest in a group, which allows them to share information about food sources—and to spot and mob predators like dogs and cats!
Eggs are laid between the middle of April and early May. Incubation lasts for 21 days. Least Tern chicks are able to leave the nest just three to four days after hatching; but they are dependent on their parents to feed them for 6 weeks or more.
Unfortunately their favorite nesting habitat is also prime real estate for human recreation, residential development, and alteration by water diversion; all of which encroach upon the area available to nest and successfully raise chicks. Although this tern can readily adapt in response to sites that change within and among years, it appears to be most productive at colony sites that have endured for several years. Global climate change is also an ever-present threat to the Least Tern. Rising sea levels and catastrophic storms can damage or destroy its nests, as well as its habitat.
But you can help Least Terns and other beach-nesting birds—educate your friends and family about these birds and how to keep them, their eggs, and their chicks safe. Remind them that there’s a place for everyone at the beach, to pick up their garbage when they are leaving, to leash their pets, and to avoid getting too close—especially if birds are nesting.Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here.
Thanks to Aliya Hosein for the text and Christine Elder for the lovely illustration!
Color in the Least Tern
Download the Migratory Birds of the Day Coloring Page! Use the picture above and the photos on this page as your guide, or look up pictures of the bird online or in a bird field guide if you have one. Share your colored-in page with us by posting it online and tagging us @BirdsCaribbean #WMBD2023Carib
Listen to the calls of the Least Tern
The calls of the Least Tern include a “ki-dik” heard frequently from flying birds.
Puzzles of the Day
Click on the images below to do the puzzle. You can make the puzzle as easy or as hard as you like—for example, 6, 8, or 12 pieces for young children, all the way up to 1,024 pieces for those that are up for a challenge!
The Least Tern is the world’s smallest species of tern! (Photo by Anthony Levesque)Least Tern with a fish, Least Terns feed almost entirely on small fish. (Photo by Stephen Buckingham)Least Tern in flight. (Photo by Sam Miller Macaulay Library-ML161558471)A Least Tern on its nest. Least Terns typically nest in a shallow depression on beaches but on the island of Bonaire the resourceful Least Terns sometimes take over deserted American Flamingo nests! (Photo by Stephen Buckingham)
Activity of the Day
FOR KIDS: Nesting Least Terns share their beach home with many other creatures, including crustaceans like crabs. Whilst least Terns prefer to eat fish, many other beach and wetland-living birds love to feed on crustaceans! These fascinating animals have boneless bodies covered by hardened skin called an “exoskeleton.” Why not find out more? In today’s activity we would like you and a parent or friend to delve into the details about crabs, and write a fact file. Find out more and get a template for your fact file here. Have fun learning all about these crusty critters!
FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of a Least Tern in the Wild! Watch this adult feeding a fish to its chick.
Read all about conserving Bahamas beach-nesting birds and their habitats in the blogs below: Margo Zdravkovic shares her adventures from Conservian’s 2016 Bahamas Shorebird Conservation Expedition and Jennifer Wheeler shares her experiences from the expedition in 2018. Margo and her team of volunteers worked to protect beach-nesting birds, nests and young, including today’s featured bird, the Least Tern. This is important shorebird and seabird conservation and research work with a mission to provide on-the-ground protection and restoration measures at key shorebird and seabird sites in The Bahamas.
