Birding
Over 80% of Guyana’s primary rainforest remains intact and is complemented by a rich diversity of habitats such as savannah grasslands, mangrove forests and coastal wetlands. Together, they are a thriving habitat for birdlife. Guyana is blessed to have species that are not overly difficult to see, such as the Harpy and Crested Eagles, the Guianan cock-of-the-rock, the Sun Parakeet, and the Hoatzin, Guyana’s national bird and directly related to the archaeopteryx, the first known bird.
Birder's Paradise
Of all nature’s treasures in this tropical country, the birds are a special highlight for nature enthusiasts, with ample locations and trails suitable for birdwatchers. Avian enthusiasts can explore low coastal plains, thick highland forests, hilly sand and clay areas and the golden savannahs of the hinterland, with each region offering the perfect spot for finding particular species.
Serious birders should make a concerted effort to see star birds like the Rio Branco Antbird, Hoary-throated Spinetail, Red Siskin, Sun Parakeet, Crested Doradito and Bearded Tachur. Guyana is reputed to be one of the easiest places in the world to see these species. Visitors to the country will be awestruck by the sheer variety and colours of other birds too. Even if one is a veteran birder, a trip to Guyana promises many first sightings to be checked off the list.
The best way to see the country’s offering of birds, is by staying at one of Guyana’s many birding and wildlife lodges; they are situated at the edge of forests and rivers.
Key Birding Regions
The vast forest cover, riversides, mangroves, low hills, and grasslands offer ample and suitable locations for Guyana Shield endemic and migratory birds to thrive. Visitors can choose from a number of locations to discover these exotic birds. Below are some suggestions.
Coastland: Birders can regularly spot more than 200 species of birds flying around or perched on rooftops in Georgetown, the capital city. The city’s parks are ideal bird environments, including the Blood-coloured Woodpecker.
Rainforests: Guyana's virgin rainforests cover over 80% of the country’s landscape. Their density and diversity make them perfect nesting spots for birds. The northwest coastline offers forested patches around Warapoka, which is home to the Harpy Eagle. Amongst the high forests is Kaieteur National Park, where you can spot the bright orange Guianan cock-of-the-rock. In the central rainforest, the Iwokrama Centre for Rainforest Conservation and the areas around are ideal for birding.
Interior Savannahs: The dual climate of the Rupununi Savannahs—dry grasslands and marshy wetlands after the seasonal rains—creates the perfect birdwatching opportunity for amateurs and seasoned bird enthusiasts.
Major locations for birders include Karasabai, Yupukari, Karanambu, Saddle Mountain, and Sand Creek in the North Rupununi. Further south are Sand Creek Village, Dadanawa, Wichabai, and Saddle Mountain Ranches in the South Rupununi, another major area where many birds can be seen, including the rare Red Siskin.
Birds in the Spotlight
While birding enthusiasts visit with varied expectations, Guyana is particularly good for viewing the top ten Guiana Shield Endemics. These include the Hoatzin, Guyana's National Bird; the Harpy Eagle, one of the largest and most powerful rainforest raptors; and the Red Siskin. Other species include the Sun Parakeet, Bearded Tachur, Blood-coloured Woodpecker, Blue-cheeked Parrot, Crestless Curassow, Olive-eyed Flycatcher and Guianan Cock-of-the-Rock.
For a hassle-free birding trip, it is best to stay connected with local tour operators who can be your eyes and ears on the ground. Choose from seasoned tour operators, guides and itineraries to develop a plan to see the birds that are on your list based on your budget, interests and time availability.
A Guide to Birding
A birdwatching trip to Guyana is exciting and memorable for birdwatchers, however, planning ahead can make the trip even better. Here are some important tips to optimise your time birdwatching.
Best Time for Birding: The best time to travel to Guyana for birding is immediately after the two green seasons: September to early December and January to late April. This is the most vibrant time, as the vegetation is refreshed, and access is easier via dry roads.
Bookings: Rely on local tour operators for smooth arrangements and communication with lodges, experience providers, and transportation. Book ahead to secure the best lodging and guides. You can find local tour operators here.
Local Guides and Naturalists: For the best experience, hire guides through local tour operators and outfitters. Many eco-lodges employ knowledgeable indigenous guides, offering opportunities to learn about birdlife and interact with Indigenous Peoples.
Equipment and Clothing: Pack light, breathable clothing in dull colours for Guyana's hot, humid weather. Bring mosquito repellent, sun protection, binoculars, cameras with extra batteries, a light jacket for mornings, a rain jacket, and waterproof boots or hiking shoes.
Bird Guides: The most popular birding field guides in use in Guyana are the Birds of Northern South America: An Identification Guide and the Birds of Venezuela (Helm Field Guides). Many birders record their sightings using the eBird app.
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