Birding In Belize

World-Class Birding
In Belize

With more than 600 bird species recorded, Belize packs an extraordinary variety of birdlife into a small country. Colourful tropical residents and seasonal visitors from North America offer rewarding sightings across the countries forests, wetlands, and islands. Whether you’re adding to your life list or picking up binoculars for the first time, birding in Belize invites you to slow down, listen closely, and discover the wild beauty that draws birders from around the world.

Belize's Best
Birding Locations

While Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is a standout for waterbirds, including the impressive Jabiru stork, the rainforests of Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve offer habitats that reward a keen eye and a little patience. The lush rainforests within Bocawina Mayflower National Park are home to over 325 different bird species alone and offshore islands such as Half Moon Caye at Lighthouse Reef provide unforgettable opportunities to observe nesting Red-footed Boobies and Magnificent Frigatebirds. Best of all, Island Expeditions has trips that cover all these areas and more.

Birds To Watch For
In Belize

Along rainforest trails, watch for Keel-billed Toucans, Collared Aracaris, Lesson’s Motmots, Black-headed Trogons, Red-lored Parrots and tiny White-necked Jacobins darting from flower to flower. Prized sightings include the brilliant Scarlet Macaw and striking Ocellated Turkey. In wetlands, look for Jabiru storks, Roseate Spoonbills, and Northern Jacanas. Along the coast and cayes, Brown Pelicans, Ospreys, and Magnificent Frigatebirds patrol the water, while Half Moon Caye’s nesting Red-footed Boobies offer one of Belize’s most memorable bird encounters.