Logo of the Belize Hotel Association featuring palm leaves and a sun graphic.
A colorful toucan perched on a branch among lush greenery.

Birding in Belize

Belize is home to more than 570 species of birds, with an average of five new species discovered each year. As watchers often spot 50 species in a single outing, be sure to keep your eyes open and your binoculars handy. Whether on a remote island, along the coast, on a jungle walk, or in the backyard of a hotel, visitors are bound to encounter spectacular plumage, stirring calls, and the steady drumming of a hummingbird’s wings.

Popular bird watching areas to observe migrant and resident birds are:

A black and white stork stands by the water's edge in a grassy area.

The Crooked Tree Village

The Crooked Tree Village is known to have waterbirds, these are the main attraction for their visitors. One is the Jabiru Stork, which is one of the most spectacular birds in Belize.
A monkey hangs upside down from branches among green leaves.

Baboon Sanctuary

Baboon Sanctuary is known for its famous Black Howler monkeys, but surprisingly they also have over 200 species of birds, which is an extensive variety to see in one day.
Aerial view of a Mayan temple surrounded by dense tropical foliage.

Lamanai

On the way to Lamanai, cruise along the river banks, amidst the beautiful scenery, you can sight exotic birds, including Black-Collared Hawk, Northern Jacana, Mangrove Swallow, Olive-Throated Parakeet, American Pygmy Kingfisher and occasionally a Purple Gallinule.