Guatemala is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a wide variety of species that can be found in different regions of the country. Offering an incredible diversity of birds for both the experienced and the beginner birdwatcher, birdwatching in Guatemala is an unforgettable experience and one of my favorite things to do in Guatemala. In this article you will find everything from endemic birds of Guatemala to the best tips for birding in Guatemala. From the lush tropical rainforests of the Petén to the high-altitude cloud forests of the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes, I’m also sharing the best destinations for finding the most unique Guatemalan birds.
What Makes Guatemala A Top Birding Destination?
First and foremost, the country is home to over 700 species of birds. Many of which are unique to the region and cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. From the vibrant and colorful toucans and parrots to the graceful and elusive quetzals. There is a breathtaking array of birds to be seen in Guatemala.
Another reason why Guatemala is a top birding destination is its varied and diverse landscapes. Whether you’re interested in birds of prey, songbirds, or waterfowl, you wiopportunities to observe them in their natural habitats.
In addition to its rich bird life, Guatemala is also home to a many important bird reserves and protected areas. The Maya Biosphere Reserve, for example, is one of the largest protected areas in Central America and is home to an incredible number of bird species, including the endangered Jabiru Stork and the elusive Harpy’s Eagle.
What is Guatemala’s National Bird?
As someone who has lived in Guatemala for many years, I am proud to say that our National bird is the Resplendent Quetzal. This is a truly a magnificent bird, with its green body, red breast, and long, flowing tail feathers.
I remember the first time I saw a quetzal, I was just a child and my dad took me to the Biotopo Mario Dary Rivera Nature Reserve, also known as the Biotopo del Quetzal. It is located in the cloud forests of the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes and is one of the best places to see the quetzal in its natural habitat.
As we hiked through the lush forest, I remember feeling excited and nervous at the same time. I had heard so much about the beauty of the quetzal and was eager to see it for myself. And then, suddenly, there it was – a flash of green and red perched on a tree branch. I was struck by the beauty of the bird and couldn’t believe that I was seeing it with my own eyes.
That experience remains one of my fondest memories, and I will never forget the awe I felt as I saw the quetzal for the first time. I am grateful to my dad for taking me to the Biotopo del Quetzal and for giving me the opportunity to experience the beauty of our National bird in its natural habitat.
Best locations for Bird Watching in Guatemala
Guatemala is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 700 bird species that call the country home. From the lush tropical rainforests of the Petén to the high-altitude cloud forests of the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes, Guatemala offers a wide variety of habitats for different bird species. Here are some of the best locations for bird watching in Guatemala:
- Tikal National Park: Located in the Petén region, Tikal National Park is home to over 300 bird species, including the elusive Great Curassow, the colorful Keel-billed Toucan, and the endangered Harpy Eagle. The park is also home to a wide variety of other wildlife, making it a great destination for both birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
Río Dulce: Located in the east of the country, Río Dulce is a birdwatching paradise, with over 400 bird species that can be found in the area. The region is home to a wide variety of habitats, including wetlands, mangroves, and tropical forests, making it an ideal destination for birdwatchers of all levels.
Sierra de los Cuchumatanes. This high-altitude region near the town of Todos Santos Cuchumatanes is home to over 400 bird species, including the endangered Resplendent Quetzal and the striking Horned Guan. The region also offers a wide variety of other wildlife, as well as stunning vistas, making it a great destination for both birdwatching and trekking.
Maya Biosphere Reserve. This vast reserve is home to over 500 bird species, including the endangered Jabiru Stork and the rare Black-capped Swallow. The reserve also offers a wide variety of other wildlife and stunning vistas, making it an ideal destination for both birdwatching and ecotourism.
Laguna Lachuá. A great destination for birdwatching, the Laguna is home to a wide variety of water birds, including the endangered Jabiru Stork, the elusive Least Bittern, and the striking Roseate Spoonbill.
Cerro San Gil. Located near the city of Quetzaltenango, Cerro San Gil is home to over 200 bird species, including the rare Black-capped Swallow and the endangered Horned Guan.
The Birds of Guatemala: Endemic Bird Species in Guatemala
Guatemala is home to a wide variety of endemic bird species, many of which are only found in the country. These birds are known for their striking plumage and rare status, making them a must-see for birdwatchers and ornithologists. Conservation efforts are being made to protect these species, and it’s important that visitors follow guidelines and rules to help preserve them. A guided tour with a local expert is recommended to get the most out of your birdwatching experience in Guatemala and to help ensure that these unique and rare species are protected for future generations to enjoy.
- The Horned Guan. This striking bird is only found in the high-altitude forests of the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes in Guatemala. The male of the species has a distinctive red wattle on its head, giving it its name. The Horned Guan is considered an endangered species, with only a few hundred individuals remaining in the wild.
- The Black-capped Swallow. This small bird is found in the cloud forests of the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes in Guatemala. The Black-capped Swallow is a rare species and is considered endangered, with only a few hundred individuals remaining in the wild.
- The White-tailed Jay. This beautiful bird is only found in the cloud forests of the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes in Guatemala. The White-tailed Jay has a distinctive blue-gray plumage with a white tail, making it easy to spot. The bird is considered an endangered species, with only a few hundred individuals remaining in the wild.
- The Guatemalan Quetzal. This bird is one of the most famous and sought-after birds in Guatemala. The bird is found in the cloud forests of the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes and is known for its striking plumage, which is a brilliant green. The quetzal is considered endangered, with only a few thousand individuals remaining in the wild.
- The Black-faced Solitaire. This bird is found in the cloud forests of the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes in Guatemala. The Black-faced Solitaire is known for its striking black plumage on its face, which gives it its name. The bird is considered an endangered species, with only a few hundred individuals remaining in the wild.
- The Azure-rumped Tanager. This bird is found in the cloud forests of the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes in Guatemala. The Azure-rumped Tanager is known for its striking plumage, which is a brilliant blue on its back and rump. The bird is considered an endangered species, with only a few hundred individuals remaining in the wild.
Best Tips for Birding in Guatemala
Here are some tips for bird watching in Guatemala:
- Research your destination. Before you go, research the different regions and habitats of Guatemala to find out which birds you can expect to see. Some areas have a higher concentration of bird species than others, and you’ll want to choose a destination that aligns with your interests.
- Get a good guide. Consider hiring a local guide who has a lot of experience bird watching in Guatemala. They can help you find the best spots to see different species and can also provide you with information about the birds you’re seeing.
- Be prepared. Bring the right gear, including binoculars, a field guide, and a camera. Also, consider bringing insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Be patient: Birds can be elusive and may not always be easy to spot. Be patient and take your time, as you may need to wait for the birds to come to you.
- Go early The best time to see birds is in the early morning, when they are most active. Try to get out early to catch the most birds.
- Learn bird calls. Knowing the bird calls will allow you to find birds more easily, and also to identify them even if they are out of sight.
(Depositphotos) - Respect the birds. Remember to respect the birds and their habitats while bird watching. Do not use playback calls or feed the birds, as this can harm their natural behavior.
- Be aware of the weather. Be aware of the weather forecast, as it can change quickly and affect your bird watching experience.
Paula studied architecture and now makes a living as a freelance writer,traveler and amateur photographer.She started her writing & publishing career as the editor of Bebé y Mamá, the first parenting magazine in Guatemala.She is the founder of www.GrowingUpBilingual.com and www.365thingsswfl.com and writes articles in Spanish and English for both magazines and the web on travel,food and bicultural and bilingual parenting .
When she is not on a plane or road trip she likes to create recipes inspired in the flavors of her native Guatemala.
- Guatemalan Dulce de Chilacayote Recipe (Crystalized Chilacayote Candy) - February 26, 2024
- Guatemalan Naranjas en Miel Recipe (Candied Oranges Recipe) - February 25, 2024
- Traditional Guatemalan Candy - February 25, 2024
