The Right Way to Go Birding in Belize

Fun fact: there are about 9,600 species of birds in the world. For our relatively small size, Belize boasts near 600 species of birds, 20% of which are migrants. Among the incredible wildlife to be seen in Belize, birds hold a particularly special place in our hearts. At Black Rock Lodge, our Belize birding tours are specifically designed to be equal parts thrilling, informative and sensitive to the environment that supports these feathered creatures. Tropical birds in the wild are famed for their colorful plumage. Unfortunately, they are also under increasing pressure from a growing illicit pet trade.

At Black Rock Lodge we are committed to combatting this by supporting bird conservation and research and providing ethical bird watching tours. Our lodge sits on a 242-acre property that is bordered by a protected nature sanctuary and the Macal River. We’re happy to say we’re a true off the grid eco-lodge – none of our power comes from electrical sources.  We practice organic farming on site, have an active re-foresting program and raise our own goats and chickens. We work with nature, rather than against it, to create one of the greatest habitats for both plants and animals. To date, our guests and guides have recorded over 390 species of birds making us your top bird watching and birding option in Belize.  Whether you’re an expert or novice, our Belize birding and bird watching tours with expert guides will ensure you have an enchanting birding experience.   

Belize’s tropical forests support hundreds of birds including parrots, toucans and toucanets. You can expect to see a wide range of wild and exotic birds during your time here, Belize’s national bird being among them. It won’t be too hard spotting this beauty. From its golden chest feathers to its colorful beak, the Keel-Billed Toucan’s beak measures anywhere from 5 and 6 inches long. Listen closely for frog-like sounds echoing off the trees for the toucan is not a particularly good flyer, preferring instead, to hop from branch to branch. Other popular bird species to look out for include a resident pair of Orange-breasted Falcons. They appear on our sighting records so often that it seems they have adopted Black Rock as their home. The Emerald Toucanet, Collared Aracari, Blue Crowned Mot Mot, Rufous-tailed Jacamar and the magnificent Black-headed Trogon are also often on the grounds and amidst the trees at the lodge.

You don’t have to be an expert to participate in birding. In fact, beginners are welcome. We host groups of bird enthusiasts annually for birding retreats. Our guides are rated as top birders throughout the country having the ability to identify hundreds of native and migrant birds by both sight and sound. Avid birders will be happy to hear that the best time to go bird watching in Belize is all year round. In addition to plenty of native and regional birds, the months of January through April bring a host of migratory birds to Belize’s shores. We invite you to join this year for the best in Belize birding tours – book your stay with us today!