Category: Featured Birds

November 15, 2025

Birds Connect Our World – Day 81

Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) with us in 2025! This year’s theme is “Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-friendly Cities and Communities”. Have fun learning about a new migratory bird every day. We have coloring pages, interesting facts, activities, and more. Download for free and enjoy nature with your family at home.

Migratory Bird of the Day: Northern Yellow Warbler

A ray of sunshine visiting from the north—it’s the Northern Yellow Warbler! Formally known as the Yellow Warbler, this species—which once included a whopping 37 subspecies—was recently split into two: the Northern (migratory) and Mangrove (resident) Yellow Warblers. As of October 2025, ornithologists officially recognize them as distinct species. We’ll share more on this split soon, but as we celebrate migratory birds, let’s learn more about the northern traveler.

True to its name, the Northern Yellow Warbler is almost entirely yellow with beady black eyes and stout bill. Males shine in bright yellow plumage with a yellow-green back and reddish streaks on the breast. Females are also yellow overall, but paler, and immatures range from dull yellow to brownish to grayish. At just 12–13 cm long and around 10 grams in weight—about the weight of a chopstick—these tiny birds are a burst of color and energy in any landscape.

They breed across most of North America in shrubby thickets and woodlands, particularly along streams, swamps, and lakeshores. Their neat, cup-shaped nests are usually tucked into shrubs or low trees, carefully woven from plant fibers, grass, and down.

Few sounds capture the joy of spring quite like their sweet, musical song—“sweet-sweet-sweet, I’m-so-sweet!”—one of the easiest warbler songs to recognize. During the non-breeding season, you’ll be far more likely to hear them making persistent, repeated chip calls as they move through mangrove, scrub, wetland edges, forest and even the trees in your garden!

These remarkable migrants travel thousands of kilometers from their breeding grounds to wintering sites in Central and northern South America, flying nonstop across the Gulf of Mexico. They’re regular passage migrants through The Bahamas and Greater Antilles, with a few migratory birds also possibly passing through Lesser Antilles. In Puerto Rico and Cuba, these bright birds are woven into local folklore as cheerful omens of rain and renewal. During migration they can be seen beside resident Mangrove Yellow Warblers. Males of the resident species are distinctive, with heavier streaking on the breast and varying amounts of reddish-chestnut on the crown and head, but females are notoriously tricky to tell apart!

Feeding mainly on insects—caterpillars, mosquitos, beetles, flies, spiders, and more—Northern Yellow Warblers play a vital role in natural pest control. In coffee farms of Costa Rica, both Northern and Mangrove Yellow Warblers help coffee farmers by reducing infestations of coffee berry borers. In other areas, they help keep mosquito numbers down, much to the relief of the human population.

Like other migratory birds, they depend on healthy forests, wetlands, and mangroves for their survival. There are many ways you can help them! Why not plant and/ or protect patches of native trees and shrubs for shelter and foraging? You should also avoid pesticides—warblers rely on insects for food! Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Jethro van’t Hul for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration!

Color in the Northern Yellow Warbler

Download the Migratory Birds of the Day Coloring Page! Use the picture above and the photos on this page as your guide, or look up pictures of the bird online or in a bird field guide if you have one. Share your colored-in page with us by posting it online and tagging us @BirdsCaribbean #WMBD2025Carib

Listen to the calls of the Northern Yellow Warbler

The call of the Northern Yellow Warbler is short, repeated ‘chip’

Enjoy these photos of Northern Yellow Warblers

Female Northern Yellow Warbler perched on a log — Female Northern Yellow Warbler. (Photo by Linda Petersen)

Male Northern Yellow Warbler. (Photo by Jesse Gordon)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS: Get ready to head out on a bird-friendly adventure with our bird-friendly bingo game! Ask a trusted adult if you can take a walk in your backyard, or go with them on a walk around your neighbourhood. As you walk around look carefully for things that help keep birds safe in your community. You can then mark them off on the bingo card we provide in our game! Get out there and see what you can find!

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of a Northern Yellow Warbler in the wild!

October 15, 2025

Birds Connect Our World – Day 80

Migratory Bird of the Day: American Golden-Plover

This shorebird is golden! In breeding plumage the American Golden-Plover, a medium-sized, bowling-pin shaped shorebird, is spangled with golden flecks across its wings and back. This beautiful plumage contrasts with a black face and underside, bordered with white on the head and neck. They are a striking sight!

Outside the breeding season they have a change of wardrobe, molting into a more demure plumage. Males and females are both speckled brown with a pale eyebrow and dark cap. They lose their black underparts which become buffy and speckled. In non-breeding plumage American Golden-Plovers can be easy to confuse with Black-bellied Plovers. American Golden-Plovers are smaller and slighter looking, with a finer bill. They also lack the black ‘wing-pits’ sported by the Black-bellied Plover, you can get more ID tips here.

American Golden-Plovers breed in the Arctic, laying their eggs in ‘scrapes’ (a shallow depression on the ground), on the tundra. When breeding is over and it is time for them to head south these shorebirds really are migration masters! They make an epic journey south, with many individuals making the long flight from the east coast of North America down to South America without stopping once! Adults head off in late July and August, but they leave their chicks behind to follow later. These young birds might stay in the north until October, after which they also head to South America.

In the Caribbean we mainly see American Golden-Plovers during fall migration. Birds not able to do a non-stop trip all the way to South America will land to rest and refuel in Caribbean wetlands. American Golden-Plovers like to flock together and you might also spot them hanging out with other ‘shorebird friends’ like the Pectoral Sandpiper. You can look for them in wet grassy areas, agricultural areas like rice fields as well as on mudflats, and shorelines. Here they will be feeding on a variety of insects and insect larvae, as well as worms and mollusks.

Unfortunately, American Golden-Plover populations are declining and they have lost more than 50% of their population in the past 50 years. One of the main threats to them during migration is loss of habitat. This includes changes caused by unfavorable agricultural practices including, intensification, drainage and pesticides, and the conversion of their habitats to other uses such as residential developments and conversion of grasslands to row-crops. This beautiful shorebird relies on wet grasslands with healthy insect populations so switching to organic fertilizers and reducing pesticide use can help them out. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Alex Sansom for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration!

Color in the American Golden-Plover

Listen to the calls of the American Golden-Plover

The call of the American Golden-Plover is a plaintive “pleedoo”

Enjoy these photos of American Golden-Plovers

American Golden-Plover, winter plumage — American Golden-Plover in non-breeding plumage. (Photo by Hemant Keshan)

American Golden-Plover in flight. (Photo by James MacKenzie, Macaulay Library- ML481014871)

Flock of American Golden-Plovers molting out of their breeding plumage. (Photo by Jack Starret, Macaulay Library-ML623806656)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS: American Golden-Plovers have seriously long migrations. Flying 1000s of miles nonstop over the ocean until they reach their final destinations. Because they have so far to go, golden-plovers fly at high speeds. Studies tracking the birds found they averaged over 30 mph—that’s as fast as a car driving on a main road. Sometimes they even reached more than 80 mph, during their long flights over the ocean!

In this activity you’re your own paper bird so it can be ready for its own long journey!

With the help of an adult, get ready to help your bird get its wings by gathering the following materials:

printed flapping bird template
scissors
glue
string
crayons, colored pencils or markers

You can download all the information, instructions and worksheet here.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of a American Golden-Plover in the wild!

September 23, 2025

Birds Connect Our World – Day 79

Migratory Bird of the Day: Hudsonian Godwit

With long elegant legs and a long uptilted bill the Hudsonian Godwit certainly stands out from the crowd. This large shorebird is rusty red in the breeding season, but molts to a pale gray-brown with a white belly for the rest of the year. On migration you might still spot traces of rusty coloration. The bill is bi-colored, with pink at the base and black at the tip. In flight you will spot a white rump and wing-stripe together with dark underwings. This can help you separate them from other, rarer, godwits which might be seen in the Caribbean. Marbled Godwits have cinnamon washed underwings, while Black-tailed Godwits share the white wing stripe and white rump, but have a black tail and do not have a dark underwing.

Hudsonian Godwits breed in the arctic, in areas where boreal forest transitions into wet tundra meadows and bogs. The exact breeding range of this shorebird is not well understood and there are likely to be breeding areas that we don’t yet know about! We do know however that after breeding, Hudsonian Godwits make an incredible migration of nearly 10,000 miles from the arctic, all the way down to their wintering habitat near the southernmost tip of South America. Some birds have even been recorded in the Falkland Islands! This journey involves non-stop flights of thousands of miles, some of it over open ocean.

Hudsonian Godwits are not common visitors to the Caribbean, but they do sometimes take a break here to rest and refuel on their epic migration. You might spot a solo godwit, though sometimes they’ll hang out in small groups. You can find them by ponds or large rainwater pools on flooded agricultural areas (including rice farms) or wet pastures. They also rely on coastal areas including brackish swamps, estuaries, lagoons, and beaches. Hudsonian Godwits mainly eat soil dwelling invertebrates, probing for them in the mud with their long, but surprisingly flexible bills. Their flexible bill-tips allow godwits to bend their bill tip to grasp their prey in thick mud.

Hudsonian Godwits are listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN and their population is thought to be decreasing. This bird already has a relatively small global population, with a fragmented breeding range and a very restricted wintering area. In the Caribbean we can help by supporting wetland habitat protection and restoration efforts and joining wetland clean-ups wetlands; making sure there are places for godwits and other shorebirds to get the resources needed to successfully complete their long journeys. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Alex Sansom for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration!

Color in the Hudsonian Godwit

Listen to the calls of the Hudsonian Godwit

In wintering areas the Hudsonian Godwits are typically silent, but you might hear a flock makes soft “wheet, wheet” calls.

Enjoy these photos of Hudsonian Godwits

Hudsonian Godwit standin in water — Hudsonian Godwit. (Photo by Kyle Tansley, Macaulay Library-ML278029941)

Hudsonian Godwit in flight, showing the white rump and wing stripe, and the dark underwing. (Photo by Luke Seitzt, Macaulay Library-ML66903611)

Hudsonian Godwit molting out of breeding plumage. (Photo by Peter Brannon)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS: Hudsonian Godwits are incredible travelers! Every year, they fly thousands of miles from the Arctic all the way to South America for the winter. That’s a super long journey! Along the way, they stop at important places called wetlands, like ponds, mudflats, beaches and even flooded farmland. These spots are like a perfect rest stop, full of yummy food like insects, worms, and small crustaceans that help them refuel for the rest of their trip.

In this activity, you’ll get to build your very own paper plate wetland to show a Hudsonian Godwit a great place to rest and recharge.

With help from an adult, gather the following materials:

A paper plate
Small pebbles
Small sticks
moss
Plastic animals- optional
White cardstock or bristol board
Paints
Markers
Glue
Glue gun (optional)

Once you’ve gathered your materials, it’s time to make a wetland habitat no Hudsonian Godwit can resist! You can download all the information, instructions and worksheet here.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of a Hudsonian Godwit the wild!

September 15, 2025

Birds Connect Our World – Day 78

Migratory Bird of the Day: American Kestrel

North America’s smallest falcon is also one of the most widespread raptors in the Western Hemisphere—found from Alaska and Canada all the way south to Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. Roughly the size of a Mourning Dove, this tiny falcon is strikingly colorful. Males have warm rusty backs and tails contrasting with slate-blue wings, while females are reddish-brown above with dark barring. Both sexes have pale underparts with brownish spotting, distinctive black vertical slashes on the sides of their faces—a “mustache” and a “sideburn”— and two black spots or “false eyes” on the back of the head, thought to deter potential attackers from the rear! Males sport a single black tail band, while females show multiple bars.

Small but mighty, kestrels feed mainly on insects (grasshoppers, cicadas, beetles, dragonflies, butterflies) and arachnids (spiders, scorpions), along with small rodents (mice, rats, voles, shrews, bats). These opportunistic hunters also eat lizards, reptiles, and even small songbirds. Their preferred hunting style is “sit-and-wait”— perching on wires or posts to watch for unsuspecting prey to pounce on. They’re also skilled at hover-hunting—hanging in mid-air as they scan below for savory grasshoppers, a favorite snack.

There are three unique subspecies in the Caribbean that look slightly different from each other: one found only on Hispaniola, an Eastern Caribbean race (Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, and Lesser Antilles to Grenada), and a Cuban race (Bahamas, Cuba, and Jamaica). These resident island forms are joined on some islands by migrants of the northern subspecies escaping the cold winter.

American Kestrels rely on cavities for nesting—using old woodpecker holes, natural tree hollows, rock crevices, and human structures, including nest boxes. If nest sites are scarce, kestrels will fight off or evict other animals like birds and squirrels to secure their spot. The male finds potential nesting sites and presents them to the female, who makes the final selection. She typically lays four or five eggs, which are cream to yellowish or light reddish-brown, and beautifully mottled with violet-magenta, gray, or brown.

Though widespread, American Kestrel populations are declining in parts of their range. Habitat loss from land clearing, removal of dead trees, and pesticide use threaten both their nesting sites and food supply. “Clean” farming practices, i.e., eliminating hedgerows and brush, also reduce their prey and nesting sites.

To help conserve American Kestrels and their insect prey, protect their natural habitats, preserve old trees, install nest boxes, and support sustainable farming practices that preserve hedgerows and natural spaces. Every action counts in ensuring a brighter future for these charismatic falcons and the ecosystems they rely on! Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Holly Garrod and Aliya Hosein for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration!

Color in the American Kestrel

Listen to the calls of the American Kestrel

The American Kestrel makes a series of high-pitched “killi-killi-killi” calls.

Enjoy these photos of American Kestrels

American Kestrel perched with prey — American Kestrel with prey in Cuba, whilst these raptors feed primarily on insects they also eat rodents, small birds and sometimes lizards and frogs. (Photo by Richard Grey, Macaulay Library-ML622485602)

American Kestrel in flight in the Dominican Republic. American Kestrel can often be seen hovering, facing into the wind, flapping and adjusting their long tails to stay in place. (Photo by Holger Teichmann, Macaulay Library-ML209799141)

American Kestrel perched — American Kestrel of the Hispaniola race, seen in the Dominican Republic. The resident Kestrels on some Caribbean islands are joined by migrants from North America, who come to spend the winter in a warmer climate. (Photo by Juan Sangiovanni, Macaulay Library-ML623355248)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS: Many of the migratory birds we see in the Caribbean are flying south from the northern U.S. and Canada to wintering grounds either here on our islands or further South into South America. Sometimes they will cover thousands of miles on these trips, often stopping along the way. But have you ever wondered how scientists track birds’ movements across the globe?

In today’s activity you will learn more about how birds are tracked and find out about how radio telemetry can be used to understand bird movements. Radio telemetry is one type of technology that helps scientists find out where birds and other animals are located, using radio signals. It works by using three main pieces of equipment 1. A radio tag (which goes onto the bird to sends out a signal) 2. An antenna, which is either fixed in place at a station or carried by a scientist. This will detect the signal sent by the tagged animal 3. A receiver to log the data. You can download all the information, instructions and worksheet here.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of an American Kestrel feeding in the wild!

September 4, 2025

Birds Connect Our World – Day 76

Migratory Bird of the Day: Wilson’s Snipe

What’s that small brown shorebird lurking in the grass? Chances are, it’s a Wilson’s Snipe! These plump, long-billed migrants love to skulk in wet grassy habitats. They are true masters of disguise with their cryptic brown and buff coloration. If you’re lucky enough to spot one in the open, you’ll see they have very long bills and highly patterned plumage with four long buffy-white streaks down the back (“snipe stripes”) and a striped head. Often, though, you won’t know one is there until it bursts from under your feet with a rasping ‘scaap’ call and a distinctive zigzagging escape flight.

Wilson’s Snipe breed across northern North America where they favor wet, marshy settings, and areas close to rivers and ponds. After breeding, some remain in the northwest, but many fly south, to the southern U.S., Central America, Venezuela, and the Caribbean. During the non-breeding season, they love those same soggy habitats, turning up in muddy wetlands, marshes, rice fields, wet agricultural areas, and near rivers and ponds. Here they probe in the mud for a delicious meal of insect larvae, snails, crustaceans, and worms.

Wilson’s Snipe are most active at dawn and dusk, often spending the day tucked away snoozing. If you catch them during spring migration or on their breeding grounds, you might witness their famous display flight, performed as a threat display and to advertise the territory. Known as “winnowing,” it involves the snipe circling high in the air, then diving down. During the dive you’ll hear an eerie, whirring ‘hu-hu-hu’ sound. This ”winnowing” isn’t a call, it’s made by air rushing over the outspread tail feathers!

On the ground, breeding Wilson’s Snipe can be just as dramatic. To protect its nest, a parent may feign injury—fluttering, flopping, or dragging itself as though wounded—luring predators away from its eggs or chicks.

Though their populations are currently stable, Wilson’s Snipe rely on wetlands, which are threatened by drainage for agriculture and development. Let’s protect our wetlands and make sure there are lots of places for these birds to hide, rest, and feed. Simple actions like minimizing single use plastics, recycling and fixing leaky taps reduce pressures on these fragile ecosystems and keep them safe for snipe and countless other species. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Alex Sansom for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration!

Color in the Wilson’s Snipe

Listen to the sounds of the Wilson’s Snipe

The Wilson’s Snipe will make a rasping call when flushed. During display flights on the breeding grounds, they produce a rapid series of ‘hu-hu-hu’ noises using outer tail feathers. These Winnowing Flights are used to threaten other birds, but may also function in attracting a mate.

Enjoy these photos of Wilson’s Snipe

Wilson's Snipe standing on mud — Wilsons Snipe, out in the open. (Photo by Josiah Santiago, Macaulay Library-ML625634968)

Wilson's Snipe in flight — Wilson’s Snipe in flight. (Photo by Rick-Evets)

Wilsons' Snipe in grass — Wilson’s Snipe, hiding in the grass; note the “snipe stripes” running down the back. (Photo by Dorian Anderson, Macaulay Library-ML620143387)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Draw and colour the Wilson’s Snipe!

Gather your paper and coloring pencils and draw along with Josmar Esteban Marquez. He will guide you step-by-step to make your own beautiful drawing of this migratory shorebird.

Download Reference Photos: Photo Wilson’s Snipe By Kinan Echtay / Flickr: Kinan Echtay

Enjoy this video of Wilson’s Snipe in the wild!

June 18, 2025

From the Nest – Day 173

Celebrate the Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival (CEBF) with us! Our theme in 2025 is “Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-friendly Cities and Communities”—highlighting the crucial role bird-friendly cities and communities can have in addressing the decline in bird populations caused by threats like habitat loss, predation, and climate change. Have fun learning about a new endemic bird every day. We have colouring pages, puzzles, activities, and more. Download for free and enjoy learning about and celebrating nature!

Endemic Bird of the Day: St. Vincent Wren

The melodic song of the St. Vincent Wren (Troglodytes musicus) echoes across the island of St. Vincent, the only place in the world where this extraordinary bird is found. Formerly considered a subspecies of the widespread House Wren (Troglodytes aedon), it was officially recognized as a distinct species in 2024—one of seven wrens split from the complex that year. Its new name proudly reflects its status as one of just three endemic bird species on the island.

This lively wren is recognized by its rufous-brown upperparts and whitish underparts, distinct dark barring on its wings and tail, a pale eyebrow stripe and face, and warm cinnamon hues on the breast, sides, and undertail—sometimes accented by small brown speckles. Its buzzy call “chih-chih-chih-chih” call and sweet, musical song “chih-chih-twee-twee-deedle-di-di-di” make it a beloved symbol of the island’s natural charm.

Highly adaptable, the St. Vincent Wren inhabits a range of environments—from montane evergreen forests and brushy woodlands to agricultural areas and even towns, where it often nests in the eaves of buildings. It plays an important ecological role by feasting on a variety of invertebrates such as spiders, cockroaches, and worms, helping to control insect populations.

The species is thought to lay two whitish-brown eggs per clutch, though little is known about its breeding habits. Rather than constructing elaborate nests, it uses dried grasses, straw, and even scraps of paper to line cavities in trees, caves, tunnels, or man-made structures—a testament to its resourcefulness and adaptability.

Despite its resilience, the St. Vincent Wren faces growing threats from habitat loss due to deforestation, urban expansion, and conversion of forest to pasture for agriculture. Climate change—including more intense storms and prolonged droughts—may also impact its survival and breeding success. Protecting this unique bird will require ongoing research to better understand its ecology and population status, along with community engagement. Simple actions like preserving roof nests and planting native vegetation can make a meaningful difference in ensuring the St. Vincent Wren continues to sing for generations to come.

Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Jodelia Simmons for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration.

Colour in the St. Vincent Wren

Download our West Indies Endemic Bird colouring page. Use the photos below as your guide, or you can look up pictures of the bird online or in a bird field guide if you have one. Share your coloured-in page with us by posting it online and tagging us @BirdsCaribbean #CEBFfromthenest

Listen to the song of the St. Vincent Wren

The song of the St. Vincent Wren is made up of clear trills and loud chatters.

Puzzle of the Day

Click on the images below to do the puzzles. You can make the puzzle as easy or as hard as you like – for example, 6, 8, or 12 pieces for young children, all the way up to 1,024 pieces for those that are up for a challenge!

St. Vincent Wren. (Photo by David Hollie, Macaulay Library-ML598496181)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : The St. Vincent Wrens can be found in forests but also urban areas. In fact this is true of many species of wrens in the Caribbean and beyond, meaning they are often common ‘backyard birds’. You can make your garden, or schoolyard safe for all of our backyard birds by building bird-friendly shelters like the birdhouse in our “Home Tweet Home” crafting activity. Together we can help create cities and communities where people and birds can thrive together!

For this activity you will need:

One empty 1L cardboard juice or milk container (clean and dry)
Popsicle sticks (about 20–24)
Acrylic paints
Paint brushes
Glue gun and glue sticks
Scissors
Hole punch (handheld)
A small stick (6–7” long) for a perch
Twine for hanging
A circular object, big enough, to trace an entrance hole for the birds

You can find full step-by-step instructions here. You will need a parent or trusted adult to help you with this activity.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a St. Vincent Wren in the wild!

June 16, 2025

From the Nest – Day 172

Endemic Bird of the Day: Plumbeous Warbler

The Plumbeous Warbler is a magnificent little warbler, weighing in a just ten grams, about the weight of a ballpoint pen! Adults are dark gray above and lighter below, with two crisp wing bars, a white eyebrow, and a pale half-crescent beneath the eye. Juveniles are similar but show a greenish wash to the gray plumage and buffy to yellowish underparts, facial markings, and wingbars.

While its plumage may be modest, the Plumbeous Warbler more than makes up for it with its lovely and varied song. Throughout the day, you can hear their melodic “pa-pi-a” or “de-de-diu.” During the midday, it switches to a soft, whisper-like version of its song. When aggravated, it lets out a long, rolling rattle.

Endemic to Guadeloupe and Dominica, this warbler inhabits a wide variety of forest types—from sea level to elevations over 1,200m. In Guadeloupe, it is particularly abundant in swamp forests.

Within these habitats, the Plumbeous Warbler roams the undergrowth, searching for wriggly, crunchy, and sometimes gooey insects, and the occasional juicy berry. Its breeding season runs from March to August, with a peak in May. Nests are constructed in forked branches of shrubs or small trees using leaves and rootlets. A typical clutch contains 2–3 eggs.

Although it is still relatively common in the main islands of its range, the ecology and habits of this species remain poorly studied. A small population persists on Marie-Galante, a small island south of the “mainland” Guadeloupe, but the bird may have disappeared from Terre-de-Haut, an even smaller offshore island in the Les Saintes archipelago of Guadeloupe.

The Plumbeous Warbler is protected under Guadeloupe’s 1989 ministerial decree. Though classified as “Least Concern” by the IUCN at both regional and international levels, recent monitoring reveals a cause for concern: a 42% decline in population size between 2014 and 2024, as shown by our Breeding Bird Survey in Guadeloupe.

Confined to forested areas, the Plumbeous Warbler is mainly threatened by the destruction of its habitat from development and human activities. Better protection and restoration of forested areas—especially efforts to strengthen the ecological corridor (Green Network) between Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre——would go a long way in securing the future of this beautiful endemic warbler. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Anthony Levesque for the text!

Colour in the Plumbeous Warbler

Listen to the song & call of the Plumbeous Warbler

The song of the Plumbeous Warbler is made up of whistles notes, the first three are given at the same pitch. They have a dry, rattling call.

Puzzle of the Day

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : The Plumbeous Warbler loves to feed on insects! In fact insects are an important delicacy for many types of birds. For our dazzling hummingbirds, our captivating todies, swooping swifts and swallows, darting flycatchers, pewees and potoos, drilling woodpeckers, and of course, our warblers —insects are an essential protein source.

we’ve compiled our top six activities into an activity book for you to enjoy! Our theme is “Protect Insects, Protect Birds,” and these activities have been purposely created to help children learn about insects.

Our “Incredible Insects” activity book is available for download directly from Flipsnack in both English and Spanish or download the PDFs.

Incredible Insects booklet as a PDF download

Insectos Increíbles

Insectos Increíbles- descargar el folleto en PDF

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a Plumbeous Warbler in the wild!

June 9, 2025

From the Nest – Day 171

Endemic Bird of the Day: St. Lucia Oriole

Locally known as Kawouge, the Saint Lucia Oriole is one of the island’s most striking endemic birds. The name Karwouge was likely derived from the French term “Carouge“, which is used as a name for New World blackbirds.

I remember seeing this oriole for the first time when I was about five years old, feeding on a ripe pawpaw near my family home. It was a sight to to behold! My grandmother told me its name: Kawouge. What she may not have known—and what I later discovered as an adult working with the Forestry Department—is that this bird lives only in Saint Lucia.

With bold shiny-black plumage and bright orange-yellow belly, shoulders, and rump, the male Saint Lucia Oriole is unmistakable. Females are similar but duller in color, and immatures sport a more muted yellow-green overall. The pointed dark bill, with a grayish-blue base, completes the bird’s distinctive look. There is simply no other bird like it on the island.

The Saint Lucia Oriole primarily inhabits rainforests, but can also be found in dry forests, coastal scrub, and even near towns—provided there are enough large trees. It has a varied diet, including insects, spiders, fruits, and nectar.

Breeding takes place from April to June. The female weaves a tidy hanging nest from grasses and plant fibers, often suspending it from large leaves such as banana, balizier, coconut, or palm. She lays up to three speckled eggs and incubates them herself. Like many songbirds, both parents work hard to feed and protect their young until they fledge.

Sadly, the Saint Lucia Oriole is under serious threat and is listed as Endangered by the IUCN. Several factors are suspected to contribute to its decline, though more research is needed. One major concern is brood parasitism by the Shiny Cowbird (Molothrus bonariensis), an invasive species that lays its eggs in other birds’ nests, tricking them into raising cowbird chicks. As cowbirds thrive in cleared, human-altered areas, their impact is expected to grow.

Another possible threat comes from the Bare-eyed Thrush (Turdus nudigenis), which may harass orioles, especially during nesting. There’s also concern that orioles living near banana plantations—where they often forage—may be exposed to pesticides through contaminated food or water. However, the actual effects of cowbirds, thrushes, or agrochemicals remain poorly understood due to a lack of detailed studies.

What is clear is that protecting forest habitats and maintaining healthy forest edges is essential. These buffer zones help limit contact between orioles and cowbirds by preserving ecological separation.

With continued habitat protection and research, there is hope that the Saint Lucia Oriole will remain a cherished part of the island’s unique natural heritage for generations to come. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Adams Toussaint for the text!

Colour in the St. Lucia Oriole

Listen to the song of the St. Lucia Oriole

The song of the St. Lucia Oriole is a rapid jumble of whistles and squeaks

Puzzle of the Day

Click on the image below to do the puzzle. You can make the puzzle as easy or as hard as you like – for example, 6, 8, or 12 pieces for young children, all the way up to 1,024 pieces for those that are up for a challenge!

St. Lucia Oriole feeding on coconut. (Photo by Diane Nastase, Macaulay Library-ML613309393)

Juvenile St. Lucia Oriole. (Photo by Peter Hawrylyshyn, Macaulay Library-ML614479814)

St. Lucia Oriole. (Photo by Brian Sullivan, Macaulay Library-ML89373141)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS :The female Saint Lucia Oriole is an expert weaver. She builds strong, hidden nests by carefully twisting and weaving natural materials like grass, vines, and palm fibers. These nests hang securely from tree branches, keeping her eggs safe and dry. Today, you’ll practice your own weaving skills—just like a mother oriole!

Nest Like The Best! And complete our St. Lucia Oriole weaving activity.

For this you will need:

1 sheet of construction paper or cardboard
Assorted ribbons, yarn, fabric strips, colored paper, etc.
Scissors
Tape or stapler
Ruler and pencil (optional)

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a St. Lucia Oriole in the wild!

June 2, 2025

From the Nest – Day 170

Endemic Bird of the Day: Cuban Palm-Crow

The Cuban Palm-Crow is barely two years old—as a species, that is! Until 2023, it was considered the same bird as the Hispaniolan Palm-Crow. But thanks to key differences in their calls, displays, egg appearance, and preferred habitats, scientists officially split them, giving the Caribbean two unique endemic crows to celebrate—and conserve.

This crow sticks to lowland habitats—open areas dotted with palm groves and tall trees. Unlike its Hispaniolan cousin, it’s not found in pine forests. Sadly, it’s now very rare and only occurs in scattered pockets of western and central Cuba. With such a limited range and growing threats to its habitat, the Cuban Palm-Crow is listed as Endangered in Cuba’s national Red Data Book.

At a glance, it looks like your classic crow: glossy black plumage with a subtle purple-blue sheen. But here’s the kicker—it shares its home with another nearly identical species, the Cuban Crow, making field ID tricky even for seasoned birders. Fortunately, their calls are distinct: the Cuban Palm-Crow gives a nasal “craaa, craaa,” while the Cuban Crow sounds more like a parrot. Still want more clues? The Palm-Crow has longer nasal bristles that cover its nostrils, and its bill shape differs slightly too—the bill’s commissure (where upper and lower mandible meets) extends below the eye in the Cuban Crow, while in the Cuban Palm-Crow, it only reaches the front of the face. Sharp-eyed birders, take note!

Diet-wise, the Cuban Palm-Crow isn’t picky. With a short, sturdy bill, it feeds on fruits, insects, and other invertebrates, foraging both in trees and on the ground—sometimes even along roadsides. It’s often seen in pairs or small groups, but gatherings of up to 20 birds aren’t uncommon.

There’s still a lot we don’t know about its natural history, especially its breeding behavior. What we do know: it builds a typical crow nest—a stick platform lined with soft materials—usually in tree branches or nestled under palm fronds (yep, that’s where the name comes from!). Breeding takes place from March through July, with clutches of 3–4 pale green, speckled eggs. Though likely solitary nesters, small groups have been spotted mobbing predators to defend nests.

Crows have long been saddled with spooky reputations in Western culture, but it’s time to flip the script. In the Caribbean, crows like the Cuban Palm-Crow are not omens of bad luck, they’re indicators of healthy forests. And with half of our Caribbean crow species now threatened, protecting them is more urgent than ever. So next time you see a crow calling from a palm grove, take it as a good sign—you’ve found a patch of forest worth protecting. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Daniela Ventura for the text!

Colour in the Cuban Palm-Crow

Listen to the calls of the Cuban Palm-Crow

The call of the Cuban Palm-Crow is nasal “raaah“.

Puzzle of the Day

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : In the story, “The Crow and the Pitcher,” a thirsty crow finds a pitcher with a little water at the bottom. The crow can’t reach the water but doesn’t give up. It drops pebbles into the pitcher and slowly, the water rises, and the crow is able to drink! Clever, right?

Did you know this story isn’t just a fable? Scientists have discovered that crows, like the Cuban Palm-Crow, are really smart. They use tools, solve puzzles, and even plan ahead!

In The Clever Crow Challenge you will recreate the crow’s clever experiment to understand why dropping pebbles into the pitcher caused the water to rise.

You will need:

1 tall, clear container (a plastic water bottle or glass vase works well)
Water
Bottle cap
Small pebbles or marbles (at least 20–30)
Measuring cup
Marker or tape (to mark water levels)

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a Cuban Palm-Crow in the wild!

May 31, 2025

From the Nest – Day 169

Endemic Bird of the Day: Jamaican Pewee

Pewuee! Pewuee! Pewuee! Wee-oh! Pee-wee!

What’s that plaintive sound echoing through the trees!? Those are the beautiful notes of the Jamaican Pewee—Jamaica’s very own flycatcher, affectionately known as simply the Pewee. While its song is sometimes described as sad or mournful, listen closely and you’ll hear soft, exhaled notes that speak more of peaceful rest than sorrow.

A plain-looking yet remarkable bird, the Jamaican Pewee is small and dark olive-brown with paler buffy-gray underparts, faint buff wing bars, and no eye-ring. Despite its understated appearance, it’s not easily confused with the other resident flycatchers on the island. The Pewee often perches alertly, with a slightly peaked head, flicking its wings and tail as it scans for its next meal.

This aerial hunter thrives in humid montane and lowland forests, especially in areas with plenty of shade and tall trees. Watch for it perched on an exposed mid-level branch, sitting motionless before darting out to snatch flying insects—beetles, moths, flies, and anything else that dares to buzz past—right out of the air. With sharp eyes and quick reflexes, it returns to its perch to repeat the ambush. How cool is that?

Jamaican Pewees breed from April to June and may nest twice per year. Their cup-shaped nests, built from woven plant fibers, grasses and Spanish moss, are typically placed in tree forks.

Though currently listed as a species of Least Concern, the Jamaican Pewee’s population is declining due to the ongoing habitat destruction in Jamaica. Protecting this species means preserving its forest home, supporting reforestation with native trees, and controlling invasive species. Reducing pesticide use and creating bird-friendly spaces by planting native trees—even in towns and urban parks—can also make a difference. Public education, research, and strong environmental policies that protect natural areas are key to ensuring this soulful songbird continues to thrive.

So next time you find yourself wandering through Jamaica’s lush forests, listen closely—hearing the Jamaican Pewee just might help you spot it. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Michelle Roberts for the text!

Colour in the Jamaican Pewee

Listen to the song of the Jamaican Pewee

The song of the Jamaican Pewee includes a plaintive “uh-weee-oo” with the ‘weee’ syllable being upslurred. An upslurred “wee-wee” call with the second note louded, and a slightly rough, whistled “weeah.”

Puzzle of the Day

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : Can you find the words in our Jamaican Pewee word search? Read the text above all about this endemic bird to remind yourself of some of the interesting facts and information, as you look for all 15 hidden words!

Remember the words appear forwards and backwards, as are horizontal, vertical and diagonal! Need some help? Or want to check your answers? You can see where all the words were here.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a Jamaican Pewee in the wild!

May 29, 2025

From the Nest – Day 168

Endemic Bird of the Day: Puerto Rican Euphonia

The Puerto Rican Euphonia is a triple threat: dazzling plumage, a melodious voice, and undeniable charm! Endemic to Puerto Rico, it’s affectionately known by locals as Canario del País or simply Eufonia. If you’re lucky, you might catch this lively little bird flitting through the canopy in places like El Yunque National Forest, Luquillo Experimental Forest, and the Carite, Maricao, and Guánica State Forests.

Adult males are striking, with a vivid orange-yellow forehead and a sky-blue cap that extends from the crown to the nape. The rest of the upperparts are a rich violet-blue, offset by a bright yellow rump and upper tail coverts. Their underparts start with a yellow throat that deepens to an orange-yellow on the breast and belly. Females, while more subdued, are equally beautiful—olive-green overall with a sky-blue cap with a sky blue helmet and yellowish forehead patch. Their yellow throats gradually deepen to a muted olive-yellow on the remaining underparts.

You’ll find these fashionable birds in a range of habitats, including mountain forests, lowland dry forests, and even shade-coffee plantations. They’ve been recorded in the Tabonuco, Palo Colorado, Palm, and Elfin (Dwarf) forests. Although usually high in the canopy, Puerto Rican Euphonias often come lower to forage along forest edges and in clearings—especially wherever mistletoe (Loranthaceae) grows, one of their favorite foods. They also snack on other small fruits like Yerba Capitana and Capulín (Muntingia calabura). Energetic and vocal, they hop busily through the trees, calling out with sharp “chit-it” notes and a cheerful “wheeee.” Their song is a rapid mix of squeaky, tinkling, and whistled notes.

Though much remains to be learned about their breeding behavior, we do know that Puerto Rican Euphonias nest year-round, with activity peaking from March to June. They build dome-shaped nests 3–20 meters above the ground, tucked into forks of branches or nestled near epiphytes. The nests are crafted from moss, lichen, and bark, bound with spider silk and lined with banana leaves and soft bark fibers. Clutch size ranges from 2 to 4 white eggs speckled with mauve or reddish-brown.

This species faces ongoing threats from deforestation, and hurricanes—bringing strong winds and tree fall—can also limit fruit availability. Supporting local environmental efforts to remove invasive species and restore native trees is key to making forests more resilient. With continued conservation, the Puerto Rican Euphonia and other forest birds can continue to thrive across the island. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Dimaris Colón for the text!

Colour in the Puerto Rican Euphonia

Listen to the song of the Puerto Rican Euphonia

The song of the Puerto Rican Euphonia is mixture of whistles and tinkling, and squeaky notes.

Puzzle of the Day

Male Puerto Rican Euphonia. (Photo by Manuel Seda, Macaulay Library-ML626933664)

Female Puerto Rican Euphonia. (Photo by Ricardo Sanchez, Macaulay Library-ML477816071)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : Puerto Rican Euphonias love to feed on small fruits, especially mistletoe berries!

Can you help this hungry Puerto Rican Euphonia find its way through our maze to to grab some tasty mistletoe?

You can find the correct route here.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of Puerto Rican Euphonia in the wild!

May 26, 2025

From the Nest – Day 167

Endemic Bird of the Day: Hispaniolan Nightjar

If you ever find yourself walking through the forests of Hispaniola at night, listen closely. A ghostly call—pi-tan-guaaaa—echoes through the trees. This mysterious sound belongs to the Pitanguá, or Hispaniolan Nightjar, a bird so elusive that many locals recognize its voice but have never seen it.

The Hispaniolan Nightjar is a master of camouflage. Its mottled dark brown and grayish plumage blends perfectly with the leaf-strewn forest floor. Males can be distinguished by the white tips on their outer tail feathers, while females have buff-colored tips. Its cryptic coloration and nocturnal habits make it one of the most difficult birds to observe in the wild.

Endemic to Hispaniola, this nightjar favors mid-elevation forests in the Dominican Republic, especially in the Cordillera Central, Sierra de Bahoruco, and Loma de Cabrera. It is typically found between 300 and 750 meters above sea level, often in broadleaf forest. While its current status in Haiti today is uncertain, historical records indicate it was once more widespread across the island.

LIttle is known about tis diet, but like other nightjars, A. ekmani is an aerial insectivore. With a wide, bristle-lined mouth, it catches insects on the wing, feeding almost exclusively at night.

Its distinctive call—a prolonged pi-tan-guaaaa—is repeated throughout the night and inspired its local name. The sound carries throughout the forest and is often described as haunting or mournful, contributing to the bird’s near-mythical reputation. According to local legend, the Pitanguá’s song is believed to be the voice of wandering spirits calling out through the night forest.

The Pitanguá nests directly on the ground, laying two greenish-white eggs with brown blotches in a shallow depression hidden among the leaves. Breeding occurs from April to July, and the species relies on its excellent camouflage to avoid predators. Without a constructed nest, the eggs’ survival depends on how well-hidden they are.

BirdLife International currently considers its population trend to be stable. However, the Pitanguá has suffered significant declines due to habitat destruction and invasive species. Deforestation—especially in Haiti—has severely reduced its breeding range. Like many nocturnal birds, it is also sometimes persecuted due to superstition. More research is needed to determine its current status in Haiti and to monitor remaining populations in the Dominican Republic.

The Hispaniolan Nightjar remains one of the island’s most mysterious birds—rarely seen, but often heard. With continued conservation efforts—and a bit of luck—future generations will still hear its eerie, beautiful pi-tan-guaaaa echoing through the night. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Elvin Vargas Esévez for the text!

Colour in the Hispaniolan Nightjar

Listen to the song of the Hispaniolan Nightjar

The song of the Hispaniolan Nightjar a burry “pit, whoo-vore?” often repeated.

Puzzle of the Day

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : Birds like the Hispaniolan Nightjar are very good at hiding in plain sight. Their colours help them to blend in with their environment. Insects also use camouflage to blend in with their environment and keep them safe from other animals that love munching on them. But note that it also helps some insects catch prey that doesn’t see them! Their colours, patterns and even physical shape make them indistinguishable from their surroundings.

In this activity you’re going to go outside (with an adult) and help insects and birds find the best spot for them to blend in such as in the grass, amongst fallen leaves, branches, leaves, flowers, dirt, tree trunks, and other plants.

You will need:

pencil
scissors
clipboard (optional)
copy of Masters of Camouflage page

Can you find the ‘Masters of Camouflage’ page to print (in colour or black and white) and full instructions of this activity here!

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video about why Hispaniolan Nightjar was made a seperate species!

May 24, 2025

From the Nest – Day 166

Endemic Bird of the Day: Barbados Bullfinch

The Barbados Bullfinch, affectionately known as “Sparrow” or “Sparky” by locals, is a ubiquitous and endearing resident of the island. Arguably the easiest West Indian endemic to spot, it often finds you rather than the other way around. This charming bird, the only endemic species (so far!) on Barbados, is a testament to resilience and adaptability.

Measuring just 5-6 inches (14-15 cm) in length, the Barbados Bullfinch presents a subtle beauty. Both sexes have similar plumage: dark olive upperparts with brownish wings, and a light grey underbelly that may show faint streaking on the breast and belly. Males have a solid black, cone-shaped bill, while females sport a paler lower mandible. Their vocal repertoire is varied, ranging from rapid “tse tse tse tse tse” calls to harsh “schipp-schipp-schipp” sounds, and a drawn-out “schrrrrrrp.”

Despite its limited range—confined to just 166 square miles of Barbados—the species is classified as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List. This favorable status is largely due to its extraordinary adaptability. The Bullfinch thrives in nearly every habitat across the island, from dense woodlands and mangroves to grasslands and highly urbanized areas.

Its diet is just as flexible. Though primarily a seed eater—gleaning seeds from the ground or grasses—it supplements its diet with fruits and berries. On rainy days, it can be observed eating insects—darting from branches to catch them in mid-air like a flycatcher. It’s become remarkably tame, frequenting hotels, restaurants, and backyards, and is often seen accepting hand-fed treats, including processed foods like sugar. Studies have also shown the Bullfinch’s impressive problem-solving skills. In urban environments and lab settings, they’ve been observed opening sugar packets and pulling strings to access food (Lefebvre et al., 2016).

Their nesting habits are equally adaptable. Both sexes contribute to building a domed nest with a side entrance, constructed from woven dry grass or other locally available materials. While typically built in trees and shrubs, they readily adapt to man-made structures. Females usually lay 3-4 eggs, which hatch after about 14 days of incubation.

Though currently thriving, the Barbados Bullfinch faces several threats that should be monitored, including predation by feral and domestic cats, the non-native Mongoose and by African Green Monkeys. They are also subject to brood parasitism by Shiny Cowbirds.

Small but resilient, the Barbados Bullfinch stands out as both the island’s lone endemic and one of the special and celebrated birds of the Caribbean. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Julian Moore for the text!

Colour in the Barbados Bullfinch

Listen to the calls and song of the Barbados Bullfinch

The song of the Barbados Bullfinch is rapid “tsee-tsee-tsee-tsee…” or “tsit-tsit-tsit-tsit…”. The call is a a sharp “tseet.”

Puzzle of the Day

Barbados Bullfinch on a twig — Barbados-Bullfinch. (Photo by John Webster)

Barbados Bullfinch. (Photo by Lauren Tucker)

Barbados Bullfinch on the ground — Barbados Bullfinch. (Photo by David Hollie, Macaulay Library-ML608647927)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : Our 2025 CEBF theme “Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-friendly Cities and Communities” highlights the many challenges our endemic birds face due to human activities and expanding urban development. To combat these challenges conservation efforts need to incorporate bird-friendly actions, making sure that our communities become havens for these unique birds. Anyone from national and local governments, businesses, community groups, and individuals can help out by being “bird-friendly”!

What does “bird-friendly” mean? “Bird-friendly” means making our environment safe and welcoming for birds. We can do this by planting native plants, providing clean water, and avoiding the use of harmful chemicals. As well as in other ways by making choices about how we use resources like electricity and our shopping choices. Why not see how bird-friendly you, and your community are, by taking part in the ” Bird-Friendly Community Challenge“. This will help you think about ways in which we can all be friends to birds!

Esta actividad también está disponible en español.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a Barbados Bullfinch in the wild!

May 21, 2025

From the Nest – Day 165

Endemic Bird of the Day: Bermuda Petrel

The Bermuda Petrel, or Cahow, is Bermuda’s only endemic bird—found nowhere else on Earth! Fittingly, it is the national bird of Bermuda, and a source of great pride for Bermudians. Like many seabirds, Cahows spend nearly their entire lives at sea, returning to land only to breed—and they nest underground, in burrows!

Few people have ever seen a Cahow in the wild. These elusive birds return to their breeding grounds under the cover of night, arriving in October or November and departing again in May or June. Juveniles are even more mysterious: after fledging, they may remain out at sea for up to four years before returning to land to breed. Incredible!

Cahows closely resemble the Black-capped Petrel, but can be distinguished by a dark gray cap that extends over the face, nape, and sides of the neck, forming a “cowl.” Their forehead and throat are white, and their upperparts are mostly gray with a white fringe bordering the darker rump. Their underparts are mostly white, and they have very long wings, with a one-meter wingspan. A powerful and agile flier, the Cahow is easily distinguished from the smaller, fluttery storm-petrels.

Why the scientific name Pterodroma cahow? Pterodroma means “winged runner,” a fitting name for a seabird that thrives in strong winds and rarely rests on land. The name “Cahow” comes from the eerie cries these birds make at night—calls that once spooked sailors and earned Bermuda the nickname “Isle of Devils.” Most likely, those ghostly sounds belonged to Cahows.

When the first settlers arrived in the 1600s, the Cahow was abundant, with an estimated half a million pairs nesting throughout the Bermuda archipelago. But within a few short years, the population had been decimated. Adults and chicks were taken by the thousands from their burrows and eaten. By around 1620, the Cahow was believed to be extinct.

During the first half of the 20th Century, four Cahow specimens were recovered, inspiring a search for its breeding grounds, which were rediscovered in 1951. That event was headline news in newspapers around the world. This led to the launch of the Cahow Recovery Program under the leadership of Dr. David Wingate, Bermuda’s first Conservation Officer (1957 to 2000), and since 2000, continued by his successor Jeremy Madeiros.

Thanks to decades of tireless effort, the Cahow has made a remarkable comeback: from just 18 nesting pairs (and 8 fledglings) in 1960, to 62 pairs (32 fledglings) in 2001, and 165 nesting pairs (76 fledglings) in 2024.

The path to recovery has not been easy. Threats included pesticide exposure (leading to thin eggshells and breeding failure), competition for nest sites from White-tailed Tropicbirds, egg predation by rats, and even predation by Peregrine Falcons. Today, rising sea levels pose a new and serious threat.

To give the Cahow every chance at success, conservationists developed wooden baffles to keep out the larger Longtails (White-tailed Tropicbirds), allowing only Cahows to access the burrows. Artificial burrows have also been installed to accommodate the growing population.

Still classified as Endangered, the Cahow remains one of the rarest seabirds in the world—but its story is one of hope, resilience, and the power of dedicated conservation. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Andrew Dobson for the text!

Colour in the Bermuda Petrel

Listen to the calls of the Bermuda Petrel

The calls of the Bermuda Petrel include a high pitcher “oooooooooooooo-EEK” made by males during courtship, and an answering growl of “aaaaaaaawww-AK” made by females.

Puzzle of the Day

A Bermuda Petrel in flight. (photo by Friedemann Arndt, Macaulay Library- ML608756232)

Bermuda Petrel head — Close-up of a Bermuda Petrel. (Photo by Tom Johnson, Macaulay Library-ML40621211)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : The Bermuda Petrel is a beautiful seabird, related to gulls, albatrosses, shearwaters and many more groups of sea loving birds! Another group of birds that can be found along our Caribbean coastline are the shorebirds. At first glance, shorebirds and seabirds might seem like they’re they are very similar. Both groups are typically found near water, and can often be seen in similar places! But when delve a bit deeper you can see that these two groups of birds are quite distinct. There are differences not just in where they typically live, how they live, and also in how they typically look (although of course in both groups there are some exceptions to the rules!).

Why not think about some of these differences and try out our “seabirds or shorebirds?” activities. Remember that whilst there are several differences between these two groups there are sometime overlaps in their lifestyles! Full instructions of this activity in here ! And you can find the answers here.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a Bermuda Petrel at a nest, in the wild!

May 16, 2025

From the Nest – Day 164

Endemic Bird of the Day: Kalinago Wren

Say hello to the Kalinago Wren, Dominica’s newest officially recognized single-island endemic bird, named in 2024 to honor the island’s Indigenous people, the Kalinago. Previously considered a subspecies of the House Wren, Troglodytes martinicensis rufescens is now celebrated as its own distinct species—thanks to new research highlighting its unique genetics, song, and behavior.

Locals affectionately call it syòl, sinyòl, wòsinyòl, èsiyòl, òsiyòl, and Madam tètchyen. That last name, “Madam tètchyen” (or “Mrs. Boa Constrictor”), stems from local folklore. The wren is said to frequent the forest floor where the native boa, or tètchyen, is often found—like a husband-and-wife pair in nature. Spot a Kalinago Wren, and you may be near a boa!

Formerly found in Guadeloupe and Martinique, the Kalinago Wren has been extirpated from both islands, likely due to habitat loss and the impacts of invasive predators. That makes Dominica its last remaining stronghold—and a vitally important island for its continued survival.

You can find the Kalinago Wren throughout Dominica’s moist and dry forests, rural landscapes, and even near homes—though it tends to steer clear of towns. Its ability to adapt to human environments (including nesting in gutters and concrete blocks) is impressive and likely helped it recover after Hurricane Maria in 2017.

Its diet includes insects and even small lizards like juvenile anoles, and it’s often seen flitting low across the forest floor while foraging. Its powerful voice makes it easier to hear than see!

While still understudied, the Kalinago Wren is believed to have two breeding seasons, from May–August and November–December. However, some nesting activity has also been reported from February–April, suggesting there could be three annual breeding cycles—a topic ripe for further research! Nests are built in tree cavities from twigs, and the birds have shown clever adaptability by using human structures like gutters and concrete blocks. Clutches typically contain 2–6 whitish eggs with reddish-brown speckles.

Although its exact population size and conservation status have not yet been formally assessed, the Kalinago Wren appears widespread and stable. Still, as a single-island endemic, it is vulnerable to habitat loss and natural disasters—particularly hurricanes. That makes it a priority species for monitoring, research, and conservation efforts. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Garry Auguiste for the text!

Colour in the Kalinago Wren

Listen to the song of the Kalinago Wren

The song of the Kalinago Wren is loud with chatters and trills.

Puzzle of the Day

A Kalinago Wren singing. (Photo by Yann Muzika, Macaulay Library- ML631840540)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : Can you find the words in our Kalinago Wren word search? Read the text above all about this endemic bird to remind yourself of some of the interesting facts and information, as you look for all 15 hidden words!

Remember the words appear forwards and backwards, as are horizontal, vertical and diagonal! Need some help? Or want to check your answers? You can see where all the words were here.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a Kalinago Wren in the wild!

May 5, 2025

From the Nest – Day 163

Endemic Bird of the Day: Cuban Blackbird

Let’s talk about the Cuban Blackbird (Ptiloxena atroviolacea)—or as it’s affectionately known on the island, the Totí. Ask almost any Cuban, and they’ll recognize the name. This striking all-black bird is a familiar sight across Cuba, from busy cities to rural areas, and it’s even embedded in Cuban culture and sayings. Locals sometimes call someone the Totí when they end up taking the blame for something—just because.

At first glance, the Cuban Blackbird looks entirely black, but catch it in the right light and you’ll see beautiful flashes of blue and purple iridescence in its plumage. Its beak and legs are black, and the eye is a dark brown. Males and females look similar, though females are slightly smaller. About 25–28 cm long, one of the best ways to tell it apart from similar black birds is its distinctive square-shaped tail. For comparison, the Greater Antillean Grackle—another all-black species—has yellow eyes and a long, V-shaped tail, while the Shiny Cowbird is smaller with more intense violet tones.

This bird is endemic to mainland Cuba, and you can find it just about anywhere—forests, grasslands, agricultural lands, towns, and cities. Its varied, musical song can often be heard echoing through both natural and urban environments. The Cuban Blackbird is adaptable and opportunistic, often seen foraging on the ground alone, in pairs, or in mixed flocks with other blackbirds. Its diet includes insects, seeds, small vertebrates, and even nectar—clearly not a picky eater!

Breeding takes place from April to August. Pairs build cup-shaped nests out of rootlets, hair, and feathers, where they typically lay 3 to 5 eggs.

While the Cuban Blackbird is common and widespread today, it’s still important not to take its presence for granted. There’s much we don’t know about this species, and as climate change and habitat loss intensify, even adaptable birds can face unexpected challenges. As the saying goes, “The time to protect a species is while it’s still common.”Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Saúl González Rosales for the text!

Colour in the Cuban Blackbird

Listen to the calls of the Cuban Blackbird

The calls of the Cuban Blackbird include a metallic “schee-o” and loud “chuck,” as well as a “chok, chok, chok, lee, lee, lee” series.

Puzzle of the Day

A Cuban Blackbird. (Photo by Lutz Durselen, Macaulay Library- ML204086391)

A Cuban Blackbird perched on a feeder — A Cuban Blackbird enjoys a feeder. (Photo by Rosie Howard, Macaulay Library-ML172657491)

a Cuban Blackbird perched on a flower — A Cuban Blackbird perched on a flower. (Photo by Andy Goris, Macaulay Library-ML614707075)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : The Cuban Blackbird looks black. But when the sunlight hits it at different angles,
colors of purple and blue are revealed. This beautiful effect is known as iridescence! Several birds have feather like this, and you might also have seen this in shiny bubbles or on butterfly wings.

You can create your own iridescent bookmark using simple materials. Just like the glossy feathers of the Cuban Blackbird. Your bookmark will shimmer and shine as you move it in the light.

You will need:

paper
We recommend using black card stock because iridescence shows up best on dark
colors. But you can use any kind of paper as long as it’s thick enough to go in water
and doesn’t have a shiny or slippery coating.
print out of the feather template ( provided in our instructions )
clear nail polish
shallow container
scissors
paper towel

You will need a parent or trusted adult to help you with this activity.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a Cuban Blackbird in the wild!

May 2, 2025

From the Nest – Day 162

Endemic Bird of the Day: Gray Trembler

The Gray Trembler really knows how to put on a show! When it sings, its entire body trembles with excitement—its wings droop and quiver, and its tail pulses in a rhythmic shake. This bird’s got serious moves! While it sticks to one signature dance, its vocal performance is anything but predictable. One of its common songs is a series of quavering whistles that slide downward in pitch. Other times, it belts out elaborate warbles reminiscent of its cousin, the mockingbird—or switches to simpler chortling trills. It even has a raspy, buzzy call that sounds like it’s giving someone a good scolding!

If you want front-row seats to this performance, you’ll need to visit Martinique or St. Lucia–the only two places in the world where this endemic species lives. They’re year-round residents, and within these islands, they use a variety of habitats: lush lower montane rainforests, coastal dry forests, open woodlands, and even gardens. But don’t expect to find them in large numbers—they’re widespread but never abundant.

So, if you’re lucky enough to be in the right place, what should you look for besides the dancing? True to its name, the Gray Trembler is mostly gray, with a slightly darker face mask that frames a piercing yellow eye, rimmed in red. It sports a long tail, long wings, and an impressively long, curved bill. You’ll often spot it close to the forest floor, using that strong bill to flip over leaves—sometimes launching them high into the air—or to probe into crevices between vines and tree trunks. What’s on the menu? Pretty much anything it can catch: snails, beetles, small lizards, frogs, even centipedes!

We still have more to learn about the Gray Trembler’s breeding behavior, but here’s what we do know: they breed during the rainy season (April to August), laying striking greenish-blue eggs, usually laid in clutches of two to three. Their nests are open cups, built from dead leaves and twigs, placed high up in medium-sized trees. Both parents share the job of feeding the nestlings, offering a varied diet that includes fruit. And one more fun fact—they seem curious about technology—Gray Tremblers have been caught on video pecking at the cameras used to monitor their nests!

While the Gray Trembler isn’t globally threatened, it’s considered range-restricted, since it’s found only on two islands. That makes it especially vulnerable to environmental changes. One major concern is the degradation and destruction of the forests it calls home. Protecting these forests is essential, not just for the trembler, but for many other unique species that live alongside it.

What can you do? Start small: reduce waste, recycle, and avoid products that contribute to deforestation. You can also support local environmental groups, join tree-planting efforts, and share the story of the Gray Trembler and the importance of its forest habitats. Every action—big or small—helps. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Dr Jennifer Mortensen for the text!

Colour in the Gray Trembler

Listen to the song of the Gray Trembler

The song of the Gray Trembler a slow jumble of wavering rich whistles. They also have a raspy, harsh sounding alarm call.

Puzzle of the Day

Gray Trembler calling. (Photo by Michael Stubblefield, Macaulay Library-ML604068631)

Gray Trembler St Lucia — Gray Trembler, St Lucia. (Photo Kevin-Berkoff, Macaulay Library- ML323551711)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : Use the information above and the clues on the sheet to untangle our our word scramble – all about the Gray Trembler. You’ll need to know about where it lives, what it eats, and how it behaves. You can find all the answers here.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a Gray Trembler in the wild!

May 2, 2025

From the Nest – Day 161

Endemic Bird of the Day: Jamaican Oriole

“Auntie Katie! You-cheat, you-cheat-you, you-cheat-you and If-you-want-it-free, don’t-ask-me!”

These whimsical lyrics mimic the melodious song of the Jamaican Oriole (Icterus leucopteryx leucopteryx), known locally as Auntie Katie, Banana Katie, or Banana Bird.

This medium-sized songbird, about 20 cm long, fills the air with its rich, flute-like whistles—especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Its song, made up of rapid, down-slurred patterns, adds a bright, musical flair to Jamaica’s natural soundscape.

The Jamaican Oriole is unmistakable with its bold contrast of yellow and black. It sports a black throat, face, and upper chest; a greenish-yellow head, nape, and mantle; and a vibrant yellow belly and rump. Its wings and tail are mostly black, with a large white patch on the wing patch. Females look similar but slightly duller, while immatures are olive-green with less black on the head and dusky green tails.

These adaptable birds thrive in all kinds of habitats—from forests at all elevations to gardens and towns. They’re omnivores with a sweet tooth, often seen in fruit trees feasting on bananas, mangoes, Otaheite apples, and papayas. They also enjoy the nectar provided by flowers—and will eagerly tear flowers apart to get to their nectaries. These resourceful birds also feed on insects—using their pointy beaks to probe into tree bark, bromeliads, and seed pods, or picking prey right off leaves.

Jamaican Orioles are also nature’s engineers, weaving hanging pouch-like nests out of grass, thread, fibers, and Spanish moss. These nests sway beneath tree branches and are cleverly hidden among the leaves to protect chicks from predators. Females typically lay 3–5 white eggs with brown markings, and both parents pitch in to feed and care for their young.

Although the Jamaican Oriole is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, it still faces challenges. Habitat loss from deforestation and poorly planned urban expansion threatens its future. It also falls victim to the invasive Shiny Cowbird (Molothrus bonariensis), a brood parasite that lays its eggs in oriole nests, tricking orioles into raising cowbird chicks instead of their own. Planting native trees, preserving green spaces, and supporting local conservation efforts are great ways to help this charismatic bird continue to thrive.

While the Jamaican Oriole subspecies (Icterus leucopteryx leucopteryx) is found only in Jamaica, a related subspecies occurs on San Andrés, Colombia. Sadly, the species is now extinct on Grand Cayman.

The Jamaican Oriole also holds a special place in the island’s birding culture—it appears on the logo of the Gosse Bird Club, founded in the 1950s, and which continues today as BirdLife Jamaica. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Damany Calder for the text!

Colour in the Jamaican Oriole

Listen to the song of the Jamaican Oriole

The song of the Jamaican Oriole is series of rich, whistled, and slurred phrases and “cheat-you, cheat-you, cheat-you, cheat-you, cheat.”

Puzzle of the Day

Male Jamaican Oriole. (Photo by Peter-Hawrylyshyn, Macaulay Library-ML541878121)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : Get ready to head out on a bird-friendly adventure with our bird-friendly bingo game! Ask a trusted adult if you can take a walk in your backyard, or go with them on a walk around your neighbourhood. As you walk around look carefully for things that help keep birds safe in your community. You can then mark them off on the bingo card we provide in our game! Get out there and see what you can find!

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a Jamaican Oriole in the wild!

April 28, 2025

From the Nest – Day 160

Endemic Bird of the Day: Hispaniolan Mango

What’s better than one mango? Two mangos. And while we’re all about that juicy, vitamin-packed fruit of the Caribbean, today we’re talking about a different kind of treat—a dazzling hummingbird!

Not too long ago, the Puerto Rican Mango and Hispaniolan Mango were thought to be the same species, called the Antillean Mango. But in 2022, scientists split them into two distinct species after discovering key differences in their size, shape, and colors.

The male Hispaniolan Mango is a stunner, with a glittering green throat, metallic green head, and upperparts, velvety black underparts, and a reddish-purple tail with blue-black edges. female is a bit more subdued, with a whitish throat and gray belly, but still quite the looker. When her tail is fanned out, the outer feathers show a broad reddish band followed by a dark band and white tips.

Trying to tell the Hispaniolan Mango apart from other hummingbirds on the island? You might mix it up with the Hispaniolan Emerald—but don’t worry, they’re easy to distinguish! The Emerald is smaller, has a straight beak, and a green belly. The Mango, on the other hand, is larger, has a longer, slightly curved beak, a sleek, black underside, and a flashier tail.

And how about that voice? The Mango’s call is a sharp, high-pitched “chip!”— like a quick “tsk!” It often repeats the call in fast little pairs or long, chatty strings, like it’s gossiping to itself in the treetops.

Found only on Hispaniola and nearby islands, including Tortue, Gonâve, Vache, and Beata, the Hispaniolan Mango lives in moist and dry forests, forest clearings, gardens, and even coffee plantations. It hovers or perches to sip nectar from flowers, and also hunts insects mid air or gleans them from leaves and tree trunks. In coffee plantations, its favorite snack comes from the Pois Doux/ Ice Cream Bean (Inga vera) tree!

Though tiny, the Mango isn’t afraid to show some attitude. It’s been seen mobbing much larger birds—like the mighty Ridgway’s Hawk and Gray Kingbirds, if it thinks they’re invading its space or favorite flowers.

During the breeding season, which runs from December to August, the female builds a cozy, cup-shaped nest using plant fibers, coated with bark flakes, lichen, and moss—all bound to the nest with sticky spider silk. She handles incubation and chick-raising all on her own, just like other hummingbird moms.

Luckily, the Hispaniolan Mango isn’t threatened, but it still needs our help to keep thriving! By planting native flowers, reducing pesticide use, and supporting reforestation efforts, we can make sure these tiny, fierce, and fabulous birds light up our skies for years to come. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Holly Garrod for the text!

Colour in the Hispaniolan Mango

Listen to the calls of the Hispaniolan Mango

The calls of the Hispaniolan Mango include a thin trill and sharp chipping notes.

Puzzle of the Day

Male Hispaniolan Mango in flight. (Photo by Carl-Hackman, Macaulay Libarary-ML398939841)

Male Hispaniolan Mango on a perch — A Male Hispaniolan Mango takes a rest. (Photo by Carlos Gomez)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : The Hispaniolan Mango is a striking bird with vivid shining colours of glittering green, inky black and vibrant violet! But who says you have to travel to the Dominican Republic or Haiti to see these beautiful colours?

In this activity you’ll make a suncatcher—a decoration that catches rays of sunlight and casts them as rainbow hued patterns across the room!

Here is a list of materials you will need:

empty clear plastic milk jug, washed and dried
permanent markers
scissors
utility Knife
hole punch
twine, string or yarn

You can download full instructions here including a bird template for you to use. This activity involves using a knife and scissors.

Make sure you have an adult to help you with the cutting.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a male Hispaniolan Mango in the wild!

April 24, 2025

From the Nest – Day 159

Endemic Bird of the Day: Greater Antillean Bullfinch

Small but striking, the Greater Antillean Bullfinch is endemic to the islands of The Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Hispaniola, and Jamaica. Measuring around 14 cm in length, and weighing just 18-22 grams—about the same as five sugar packets—this lively songbird is easy to spot if you know what to look for.

Males are glossy black, accessorized with bold reddish-orange eyebrow stripe, throat and undertail-coverts (feathers under the tail). Their shrill, whistle-like “t’zeet, t’zeet, t’seet, t’seet, seet, seet, seet” calls have earned them the endearing nickname ‘police bird’ in The Bahamas. Females look similar to males but are a duller black with more muted red markings. Juveniles are grayish-olive and have similar but smaller reddish-orange markings, especially on the throat,

This bullfinch’s short, thick black beak is perfectly built for cracking open seeds from a wide variety of plants. But it’s not a picky eater—it also feeds on flower buds and petals, many different fruits, like green plantain, coffee and peppers, as well as insects and even snails! This versatile diet helps the Greater Antillean Bullfinch thrive in many habitats, from dry coastal shrublands and gardens to lush mountain forests. You’re most likely to spot them foraging in the understory, either alone or in small, lively groups.

During courtship, males put on a show by puffing out their feathers and performing their signature little hop around the female. Once paired, the female builds a cozy bowl-shaped nest using strips of palm fronds and tree bark. She typically lays 3 to 4 bluish-white eggs marked with fine red-brown and yellow-brown speckles between March and June.

This captivating bird is currently listed as ‘Least Concern’ on the IUCN Red List, thanks to its wide range and adaptable nature. Although tree cover has declined in many areas across its range, its population remains stable. These hardy birds have shown a remarkable ability to adapt—even surviving in degraded forests.

Still, this species faces increasing challenges. Habitat loss from development and the growing impacts of climate change pose real threats to their survival. Protecting the Greater Antillean Bullfinch means taking action now—planting native trees where they live—including your backyard, switching to organic pesticides that won’t harm the insects they feed on, and supporting efforts to conserve forests and restore habitats across the region. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Soraya Halkitis for the text!

Colour in the Greater Antillean Bullfinch

Listen to the song of the Greater Antillean Bullfinch

The song of the Greater Antillean Bullfinch is a series of high-pitched “zit” or “seet” notes, sometimes followed by high thin buzz.

Puzzle of the Day

Male Greater Antillean Bullfinch. (Photo by Dax Roman)

Female Greater Antillean Bullfinch – she is dull black or slaty-black compared to the glossy dark black of the male. (Photo by Matt Grube)

Immature Greater Antillean Bullfinch. (Photo by Christoph Moning, Macaulay Library-ML65069001)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : During our 2025 celebration of Caribbean endemic birds we will be sharing a beautiful colouring page for every single bird we feature! These lovely pages were created for us by Arnaldo Toledo, who also created a coloured in version of each bird as inspiration. Get your colour pencils ready, and read these super helpful colouring in tips below. Then go ahead, download and print each bird, and get colouring! Enjoy!

Estos consejos también están disponibles en español:

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a Greater Antillean Bullfinch in the wild!

December 14, 2024

Birds Connect Our World – Day 75

Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) with us in 2024! This year’s theme is “Protect Insects, Protect Birds”. Have fun learning about a new migratory bird every day. We have coloring pages, interesting facts, activities, and more. Download for free and enjoy nature with your family at home.

Migratory Bird of the Day: Wood Duck

Meet the dazzling Wood Duck! It is one of North America’s most stunning ducks, turning heads wherever it goes with its vibrant and ornate plumage. The elegant male sports a glossy green head with a long green, purple, and white crest at the rear, chestnut-coloured breast, black-and-white neck, orange-red bill, and brilliant red eye. Females have a more understated beauty with warm brown to grayish plumage, a pronounced white tear drop around the eye, white throat, and soft gray crest. Males in non-breeding plumage and juveniles resemble adult females.

True to their name, Wood Ducks live in or near forested swamps. They stand out among ducks for their ability to perch gracefully on tree branches and logs, thanks to their strong claws. Unlike most ducks that nest on the ground or in reeds, Wood Ducks favor snug tree cavities high above ground—sometimes directly over water. They rely on pre-existing holes, often crafted by woodpeckers or natural breaks in trees. The female selects the nest site, while the male waits nearby.

To make the cavity cozy, the female lines it with soft down feathers from her breast, ensuring warmth for her eggs. After hatching, the one-day old ducklings climb up to the cavity entrance and leap fearlessly, landing safely on the ground or water below, even from heights exceeding 50 feet! Their mother calls them, but the ducklings navigate this daring jump on their own—and land without injury!

A study in South Carolina found that 42% of nesting females returned to the same site the following year, highlighting the crucial need to protect these nesting trees.

Wood Ducks enjoy munching on aquatic plants, but they also eat seeds, fruits, insects, and other arthropods. When their aquatic buffet becomes scarce, they venture into the forest to forage for nuts or into fields to snack on grains. Ducklings feed exclusively on protein-rich insects and small invertebrates to fuel their rapid growth.

These birds can be found year-round along the Pacific Coast, in the Northwest, Midwest and Eastern United States, and in Cuba! Migratory populations winter in the southern U.S. and northern Mexico and are rare visitors to the northern Bahamas. Wood Ducks form pairs on their wintering grounds and males follow their mates back to their breeding areas. This means a male may make a long journey north one spring and a shorter one the next, depending on where his partner leads him.

In the early 20th century, hunting pressure coupled with loss of nesting sites pushed Wood Ducks to near extinction. Thanks to legal protection and artificial nest boxes, their populations rebounded, and the species is no longer considered threatened. However, preserving their habitats and the insects they rely on remains vital. Keep waterways clean, and opt for organic fertilizers and biopesticides to minimize harm to wetlands. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Aliya Hosein for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration!

Color in the Wood Duck

Listen to the calls of the Wood Duck

Female Wood Ducks have a loud “oo-eek, oo-eek” call that they make in flight or when disturbed.

Enjoy these photos of Wood Ducks

Female Wood Duck — The more demure female Wood Duck has an understated elegance of her own. Females normally lay 10-11 eggs per clutch, and will sometimes raise two broods in one breeding season! (Photo by Alan D. Wilson)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS: Some times birds can be hard to find! Your task in this activity is to find and identify the hidden bird in the given picture!

All you need to do is download and print this activity sheet. Then color in the spaces according to the instructions below to see what kind of bird this is. Once you have found them, describe or name the bird.

Esta actividad también se puede descargar en español en español. ¡Disfruta buscando todas las cosas de la lista!

Tu tarea consiste en encontrar e identificar el pájaro escondido en la imagen dada. Colorea los espacios según las instrucciones siguientes para ver de qué tipo de pájaro se trata. Una vez encontrado, describe o nombra el pájaro.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of a Wood Duck in the wild!

November 27, 2024

Birds Connect Our World – Day 74

Migratory Bird of the Day: Louisiana Waterthrush

Who’s that cutie bobbing their booty? It’s the Louisiana Waterthrush! This lively songbird is famous for its constant tail-bobbing, which inspired its scientific name (Parkesia motacilla)—both parts meaning “tail-wagger.” True to its name, the Louisiana Waterthrush thrives near fast-moving rivers and streams, often hopping gracefully along rocky edges.

Its cryptic, thrush-like plumage is dark olive-brown above and white below, with brown streaks on its breast and sides. A bold white eyebrow stripe (wider behind the eye) and a clean, white throat help set it apart from its equally bobbing cousin, the Northern Waterthrush. The latter has buffier underparts, a narrower eyebrow stripe, and streaking on its throat.

You can also tell them apart by song: the Louisiana Waterthrush’s tune begins with 2-4 clear, descending whistles, followed by a complex jumble of notes. Its sharp metallic chip call is higher-pitched than the Northern’s.

While both species winter in the Caribbean, the Louisiana Waterthrush tends to prefer fast-flowing streams, while its cousins favor mangrove swamps—though they can sometimes overlap. It’s hypothesized that the tail-bobbing behavior may serve as camouflage, mimicking rippling water as they forage for invertebrates near streams. Other wetland birds, like Spotted Sandpipers and Solitary Sandpipers have similar bobbing behavior.

The Louisiana Waterthrush is one of the earliest migrants to arrive in their Caribbean and Central American wintering grounds, often reaching as early as July or August. It is also among the first to return north in spring, arriving on breeding grounds in eastern North America well ahead of most warblers. They seem to prefer traveling solo, usually spotted migrating with only one or two individuals.

Despite being a relatively common migrant in the Caribbean, much remains to be learned about their migration. Some take inland routes through Mexico and Central America, while others cross the Gulf of Mexico to overwinter on islands like Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico.

These streamside specialists feed on a great variety of insects, larvae, and even the occasional small frog or minnow. They walk briskly and skillfully among rocks and sticks as they pursue their prey, sometimes wading into water to obtain food. Their reliance on clean streams makes them bioindicators—birds whose health reflects the condition of their habitat. Studies show that water pollution directly affects their survival and breeding success, as it reduces the macroinvertebrates they depend on for food.

Although not considered threatened, Louisiana Waterthrush populations depend on healthy stream ecosystems. Simple actions like disposing of trash properly and using eco-friendly fertilizers can help protect these amazing birds and the waterways they call home. Keeping streams clean safeguards not only the Louisiana Waterthrush but also countless other species that share their habitats.

Let’s celebrate the Louisiana Waterthrush, a migratory bird whose beauty and behavior remind us of the importance of protecting our natural world! Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Holly Garrod for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration!

Color in the Louisiana Waterthrush

Listen to the calls of the Louisiana Waterthrush

The call of the Louisiana Waterthrush is a loud, metallic ‘chip‘, similar to that of the Northern Waterthrush.

Enjoy these photos of Louisiana Waterthrush

Louisiana Waterthrush with insect prey — Louisiana Waterthrush grabbing a tasty insect snack, this bird mainly feeds on aquatic invertebrates. (Photo by Ryan Shean ML618924609)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS: Use your observation skills and go on a migratory birds and insect Scavenger hunt! Print the cards on sturdy paper and use a clipboard or piece of cardboard as a writing surface outside.

Talk about this with your kids and then go outside to investigate your habitat and get looking for birds and insects. Instead of collecting the items, this is an observational scavenger hunt. See what you can find on your search and note down each bird or insect you find and anything interesting you spot about them, as they are located. When everyone has had a chance to take part and add items to the list, come back together to chat about what was seen and where they were located. How many different bird did you see? Which habitat had the most insects? Did you spot any birds eating insects?

Esta actividad también se puede descargar en español. ¡Disfruta buscando todas las cosas de la lista!

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of a Louisiana Waterthrush in the wild! In the winter you will likely only hear their ‘chip- chip’ call, but here is a sample of their sweet song from the breeding grounds.

November 12, 2024

Birds Connect Our World – Day 73

Migratory Bird of the Day: Ring-necked Duck

With such a fab updo and glossy plumage, the Ring-necked Duck is one dashing duck! It is also a strong and fast flier, able to take flight by springing up directly from the water! In contrast, most diving ducks need to do a laborious take-off run before flying off. Although Ring-necked Ducks are diving ducks, they’re frequently seen in shallow waters (four feet deep or less), where patches of open water are fringed with aquatic or emergent vegetation such as sedges and lilies.

Ring-necked Ducks don’t tip up as “dabbling” ducks do, like the elegant Northern Pintails and Blue-winged Teals. They plunge underwater and swim using only their feet for propulsion. The plants they munch on include crunchy leaves, stems, seeds, and tubers from pondweed, water lilies, wild celery, wild rice, millet, sedges, and arrowhead. They also chomp down on snails (shell included!), dragonfly larvae, and even leeches! When it’s time to lay eggs during spring (March through April), these ducks need lots of protein, so they gobble up more bugs and small creatures. In the fall, they switch back to munching on plants during their big migration!

Ring-necked Ducks breed in freshwater marshes and bogs across the boreal forests of northern North America. They build their nests about 10 inches above the water, using bent plant stems, or on floating vegetation. This elevated nesting keeps their eggs safe from land predators like foxes. The female lines the nest with her own down feathers, making it soft and cozy. She typically lays between six and 14 eggs. Ducklings hatch and leave the nest within two days, already able to swim and find food, though they stay under their mother’s watchful eye. As temperatures drop, Ring-necked Ducks migrate to warmer areas, including Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean. On your island, you’re most likely to spot them in swamps, river floodplains, and reservoirs.

The Ring-necked Duck is named for the chestnut collar across its black neck. This collar is hard to see in the field but it was clearly visible to the nineteenth-century biologists that described the species using dead specimens. Males can instead be identified by their pointed heads, bright yellow eyes, satiny black body, light gray sides, and white wedge at the shoulder. Males have a gray bill with a black tip. Their bills are bordered by a white ring. Females have a gray bill with white band and black tip but no white ring around the bill. Males in eclipse (nonbreeding or “hiding”) plumage, which is worn for a month or more after breeding in the summer, display a browner plumage with brown-black head, breast and back. They differ from the females by having bright yellow eyes and no eye-ring.

Females have a brown-gray body, pale white feathers around the base of the bill, a brown top of the head that contrasts with its gray face, and white eye-ring with a narrow white line that extends back from the eye. Immature ducks resemble their corresponding adult plumages by sex, but they are duller in color.

Ring-necked Ducks and other waterbirds rely heavily on wetlands for breeding, wintering, and migrating. If these vital habitats are threatened, their populations can suffer too. Even if wetlands seem far from where you live, you can still help protect them. Keep your sidewalks, lawns, and driveways free of pet waste, trash, and toxic chemicals like motor oil, which can wash into storm drains and pollute wetlands. Talk to friends and family about the importance of wetlands for both wildlife and people. Also, opt for non-nitrogen lawn fertilizers to prevent nutrient pollution, which can lead to harmful algae blooms and dangerous “dead zones” in water. Your actions can make a big difference in preserving these vital habitats and supporting waterbird populations. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Aliya Hosein for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration!

Color in the Ring-necked Duck

Listen to the calls of the Ring-necked Duck

Ring-necked Ducks make a series of short calls consisting of grating barks or grunts.

Enjoy these photos of Ring-necked Ducks

Male Ring-necked Duck — A beautiful male Ring-neck Duck in striking black and white breeding plumage. In winter he will have gray-brown sides, but you can still use his distinctive peaked head to ID him. (Photo by Becky Matsubara)

Female Ring-necked Ducks — Females are brown with a subtle white eye-ring and grayish face. Look for these ducks in small, shallow wetlands. (Photo by Denny Swaby ML317836361)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS: During migration, Ring-necked Ducks will stop to rest and feed on shallow lakes with lots of vegetation. Here they will munch on submerged plants and aquatic creatures.

Can you help this tired and hungry Ring-necked Duck get to the swamp to take a rest and grab a snack on its journey south?

You can find the answer here.

When you are out bird watching, look for Ring-neck Ducks in swamps, on floodplains and estuaries, shallow inland lakes, marshes, ponds and reservoirs!

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of Ring-necked Ducks in the wild!

November 4, 2024

Birds Connect Our World – Day 72

Migratory Bird of the Day: Summer Tanager

Summer Tanagers are one of our boldest and brightest migratory birds, and they come in three exciting “flavors”! Look for them in an entirely bright red plumage or what we like to call strawberry (adult male), a warm yellow plumage better known as banana (adult female), and finally, a mixture of reds and yellows AKA strawberry-banana (young males and older females)!

Despite this buffet of colors, like many birds, Summer Tanagers were named after the appearance of the male. Their latin name, Piranga rubra, is a combination of the Tupi (a language native to Brazil) word for “bright red,” and the Latin word for “red.” Their name essentially means “bright red red” — a perfect description for the male’s stunning plumage!

These striking beauties breed in many parts of the Southern United States. However, there are two distinct breeding populations that likely each take different migration routes. Birds breeding in the Southwestern US migrate through Mexico, down into Central America, and even to northern South America. Birds breeding in the Southeastern US migrate through the Caribbean — Summer Tanagers have been recorded migrating through Cuba, The Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Barbados, Grenada, and Curacao. Whilst the majority will continue on to South America, some birds have been recorded overwintering in the Caribbean!

Like many other songbirds, Summer Tanagers prefer to migrate at night. Cooler temperatures help them avoid overheating during long flights, calmer nighttime air provides smoother flying conditions, and traveling under the cover of darkness means that they can avoid predators that hunt during the day. These birds sometimes flock together, forming groups of up to 30 individuals before leaving to their next stopover site. Flocking may help birds navigate and better avoid predators on the move.

Their rest and refuel time is spent gorging on the good stuff — flying insects like bees, wasps, and beetles, crunchy grasshoppers, and gooey caterpillars. Much like their strawberry and banana plumage, Summer Tanagers are also big fans of fruit, and they can often be found munching on mulberries, blackberries, citrus, and bananas. These crucial meals help them build muscle and fat reserves prior to taking off — in fact, in a study looking at weights and fat storage of migratory birds in the tropics, Summer Tanagers arriving in Panama in the fall were estimated to have enough fat to continue another 860 km of flying!

Summer Tanagers are ready to take summer with them, they are one of the earlier migrants detected migrating as early as August and arriving to their overwintering grounds by the end of September! During migration, look for these birds in secondary growth forests, with a preference for edge habitats and gardens. Their overwintering habitat is similar and they can often be found in forest edges and second-growth woodlands such as those used in shade-grown coffee plantations. You may spot them anywhere from low-lying mangroves, up to 1800 m in elevation!

If you’re fortunate enough to live on an island that serves as a migration stop for the Summer Tanager, you can attract these beautiful birds to your backyard by planting native trees that provide a rich source of flying insects and produce the fruits they love to feast on. This will help sustain these tanagers on their journey to South America. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Holly Garrod for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration!

Color in the Summer Tanager

Listen to the calls of the Summer Tanager

The calls of the Summer Tanager are a short, descending “pit-a-tuck.”

Enjoy these photos of Summer Tanagers

A pair of Summer Tanagers. Adult males are completely red whereas females can be a range of colors, from pale dull yellow to brighter orange. (Photo by Magdalena Richter ML623482755)

Immature male Summer Tanager. When it comes to diet these colorful birds are bee and wasp specialists though they will also eat fruit. (Photo by Linda Petersen)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS: Honey bees feed on both nectar and pollen. Nectar provides energy, and pollen provides protein and other nutrients. They find their food through sight and smell.

In today’s activity you will do an experiment to test how great bees are at remembering where they can find food!

With the help of an adult, you will need to gather the following items before you get started:

Pan or microwave-safe dish
Water
50g sugar
5 clear dishes
4 pieces of white paper
1 piece of red paper

Then download and follow these simple instructions and get started finding out more about bees!

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of a male Summer Tanager feeding on fruit!

October 15, 2024

Birds Connect Our World – Day 71

Migratory Bird of the Day: Cliff Swallow

Meet the Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota)! The Cliff Swallow is a master of the skies, performing dazzling acrobatics as it hunts for its favorite food—flying insects. Unique among swallows, the Cliff Swallow frequently changes altitude while flying, has a high-speed flight, and often glides with its wings tilted downward.

The Cliff Swallow is a compact swallow with a short, square tail. Its striking plumage features a metallic, dark-blue back and crown, cinnamon-colored neck, pale buffy-orange rump, whitish belly, and bright buff-white forehead patch. Males and females look similar, while juveniles look like a drab version of the adult.

It can be challenging to identify these fast-flying birds, so it’s important to know how they differ from similar species. The Cave Swallow (Petrochelidon fulva) has a paler throat and orange forehead, while the Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) has a long deeply forked tail and lacks the Cliff Swallow’s buffy-orange rump.

The Cliff Swallow has a vast range, breeding throughout North America. It winters in and/or passes through many Caribbean islands on migration, traveling as far south as Brazil and Argentina. Its exact distribution in these wintering areas and the migratory routes it follows are not well understood highlighting the need for more research.

Cliff Swallows are highly social, often nesting in colonies that can host up to 6,000 nests at a single site! Historically, they chose natural sites like cliff faces or canyon walls to place their intricate mud nests. But in the last 100 to 150 years, they’ve expanded their range across North America, finding nesting spots on modern structures like bridges, culverts, and buildings.

The social behavior of the Cliff Swallow during the breeding season has been well-studied, helping us understand the evolution of colonial nesting and rapid adaptation to environmental changes both natural and human-made. Their flexibility has allowed them to thrive across North America, even colonizing areas where they hadn’t previously been recorded.

Cliff Swallows migrate through a wide variety of habitats. You can most likely spot them over grasslands, wetlands, and agricultural areas, zooming around acrobatically to catch insects on the wing. You may also spot them perched in trees preening or roosting for the night, or bathing in shallow water.

Although classified as a species of “Least Concern,” conservation actions are still vital to their long-term survival. Reducing pesticide use helps keep their insect food abundant, and participating in citizen science counts aids researchers in tracking migration and population trends — contributing to the protection of this remarkable species.

Thanks to Alieny González Alfonso for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration!

Color in the Cliff Swallow

Listen to the calls of the Cliff Swallow

The calls of the Cliff Swallow are a short, repeated “chur”.

Enjoy these photos of Cliff Swallows

Cliff Swallow in flight — Cliff Swallows eat flying insects all year round, catching them on the wing and sometimes foraging in large flocks of thousands of birds! (Photo by Daniel Irons Macaulay Library-ML193593551)

Cliff Swallow Perched. Migration in both in Fall and Spring spans several months. In Fall birds can arrive on migration from July through to November and may even still be arriving in December. (Photo by Brad Imhoff Macaulay Library-ML338869051)

Activity of the Day

Talk about this with your kids and then go outside to investigate your habitat using the Habitat Scavenger Hunt cards. Instead of collecting the items on the list, this is an observation scavenger hunt. You can check off the items (with a pencil or pen), as they are located. When everyone has had a chance to look for the items listed, come back together to chat about where they were located. Were any difficult or impossible to find? Why do you think that was? For example, was it too dry to find any waterbirds or insects that live in water?

Esta actividad también se puede descargar en español en español. ¡Disfruta buscando todas las cosas de la lista!

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of Cliff Swallows in the wild! You can see a Barn Swallow, which is also a migratory bird in the Caribbean, next to the Cliff Swallow for comparison (it does not have a white ‘forehead’!).

October 4, 2024

Birds Connect Our World – Day 70

Migratory Bird of the Day: Gull-billed Tern

Have you ever spotted a sleek, silver-gray and white tern with a thick black bill soaring gracefully above a saltmarsh, beach, or flooded field? You’ve likely encountered the Gull-billed Tern! This medium-sized bird can also be identified by its long black legs and slightly forked tail. During the breeding season, it sports a striking black cap, while in other months, its head has a more subtle black band stretching from the eyes to the back of the head. Juveniles, on the other hand, have fine dark speckles between the crown and back of the neck and warm brown mottling on the upper wings.

The Gull-billed Tern has an impressive range, with breeding populations scattered across the Americas (including the Caribbean), Europe, Africa, and Asia. Birds from North America and the Caribbean fly south to winter along the Gulf of Mexico and coasts of Central and South America, while some remain in the Caribbean. It breeds in select spots in The Bahamas, Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, and Sombrero Island (Anguilla).

This adaptable bird thrives in various habitats. During the non-breeding season, it can be found foraging and resting in salt pans, coastal lagoons, marshes, and even plowed or flooded fields. Inland, it favors large rivers, lakes, rice paddies, sewage ponds, and irrigation canals.

When it’s time to nest, Gull-billed Terns prefer to nest in colonies on islands with sparse or no vegetation, or on sandbanks, dry mudflats, dunes, and even near wetlands like marshes and lagoons. It uses small stones and plant material to build nests and typically lays one to two eggs. This species appears less tolerant to human disturbance and is not as faithful to nesting sites as other gulls and terns.

Unlike many of its gull and tern relatives, Gull-billed Terns are not die-hard seafood lovers. They have a broad diet, and this where having a thick bill comes in handy. They hawk for insects in the air, pluck crabs, small reptiles and frogs from the ground, and snatch small fishes out of the water — without diving! They also boldly pilfer fish straight from the bills of other birds like the Common Tern. Occasionally, they’ll eat the chicks of other species, such as shorebirds and Least Tern!

What does this audacious tern sound like? Its call has been described as a slightly upslurred “kay-wek.” Its song is “raspy” and consists of 2-3 syllables.

Although their global population is stable, it’s crucial to share the shore with this and other waterbird species. Human disturbance can cause parents to abandon nests and chicks can die if driven away from the nest area too soon. So when you’re near their habitat, remember to give these birds space, keep dogs leashed, and clean up after yourself. You can find more tips on sharing the shore and a free downloadable infographic here.

Keep your eyes to the skies and your senses sharp — spotting this charismatic seabird is always a thrill! Whether it’s soaring gracefully or acrobatically hunting its insect prey, the Gull-billed Tern never disappoints. Happy birding! Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Antonio Garcia Quintas for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration!

Color in the Gull-billed Tern

Listen to the calls of the Gull-billed Tern

The call of the Gull-billed Tern is a lightly upslurred “kay-wek”

Enjoy these photos of Gull-billed Tern

Gull-billed Tern in flight — In breeding plumage, Gull-billed Terns sport black-caps. Gull-billed Terns are monogamous and pairs stay together for many years! (Photo by Steve Schnoll)

Gull-billed Tern Foraging — Gull-billed Tern foraging with its distinctive thick bill. This tern is not fussy when it comes to food, and will eat a variety or prey, including insects it catches on the wing. (Photo by Pablo Re, Macaulay Library-ML350199221)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS: Four our activity today why not imagine that you are a Gull-billed Tern and complete the My Migration Adventure creative writing activity!

We have provided a template for you to write a short story about a migration journey. Pretend that you are a migrating Gull-billed Tern flying from the US to the warm and sunny Caribbean. Imagine getting ready to make this epic journey: how would you be feeling having to fly so far? Think about the places you will see along the way and perhaps about other migratory birds you could ‘meet’ on the way.

This is a long journey so you should also think about challenges you, as a Gull-billed Tern, might face!

As well as writing about the journey you might also want to add some pictures to your story. Perhaps you could add a map of where you would be traveling or you could add some pictures of the other migratory birds on the route, of a particular challenge you might face or of a ‘rest stop’.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of a Gull-billed Tern in the wild! First in breeding plumage and then, in winter plumage without its black cap.

September 20, 2024

Birds Connect Our World – Day 69

Migratory Bird of the Day: Pectoral Sandpiper

If you’re out birding in marshy, wet, grasslands during migration season, and you see a shorebird’s head pop up — with a slightly down-curved bill — chances are you’ve just spotted a Pectoral Sandpiper! As the medium sized shorebird obligingly steps out of the vegetation you will observe its distinctive, boldly-streaked brown breast. One more stride into the open reveals that this streaky breast pattern ends abruptly — in a stark line marking the start of the white belly and underparts! Pectoral Sandpipers also sport streaked heads and necks, while the feathers on their back and wings are brown with rufous edges. They have shortish yellow-green legs, and are often seen in shallow water or at the water’s edge in grassy vegetation. You might spot them with American Golden Plovers who like similar habitats, and sometimes form flocks with Pectoral Sandpipers.

We all know that many shorebirds are great travelers during migration, but the long-distance journey of the Pectoral Sandpiper is especially amazing! They breed in the high arctic tundra through Siberia and North America, and most of their population winters in South America. Their winter range includes Peru, south Bolivia, south Brazil, Uruguay, south to central Chile, all the way down to southernmost Argentina. This means that some individuals, leaving from the northernmost parts of the breeding range and flying down to the southern tip of Argentina, are making round trip migrations of up to 30,000 km! This is similar to the journeys made by another epic long-distance migrant, the Arctic Tern, and is amongst the longest migrations for a shorebird in the Americas. Pectoral Sandpipers fuel up for these long trips by chowing down on wriggling midge and crane fly larvae.

In fact, Pectoral Sandpipers feast on different types of insects year-round, underscoring our WMBD theme “Protect Insects, Protect Birds”. During fall and winter they can be found in their favorite grassy wet areas — freshwater marshes, pond edges, and flooded agricultural areas. Their love for these environments have earned them the nickname “grasspipers” among birders. They use their down-curved bills to peck at insects at the water’s edge and probe the soft mud, feeling for aquatic insects such as diving beetles, insect larvae of midges and flies, as well as mollusks and worms.

Pectoral Sandpipers are listed by the IUCN as ‘least concern’, but like many shorebirds, their population is unfortunately in decline. Although this shorebird was extensively hunted in North America in the past, this is unlikely to be the cause of the current population decline. The reasons for this present decline are not well understood and need further study, however, it is thought that the loss of freshwater wetlands needed during migration and on their wintering grounds could be part of the problem. Wetland areas supporting thriving insect and invertebrate populations provide essential food for so many of our migratory and resident birds. Keeping wet, grassy areas full of the insects that birds like Pectoral Sandpipers need to thrive can help them on their way during their long migrations! Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Alex Sansom for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration!

Color in the Pectoral Sandpiper

Listen to the calls of the Pectoral Sandpiper

The calls of the Pectoral Sandpiper is a low, sharp “churt”. This call is quite distinctive and can help identify Pectoral Sandpipers when flushed or in flight.

Enjoy these photos of Pectoral Sandpipers

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS: Have you ever wondered how migratory birds like the Pectoral Sandpiper know which direction to go when they hit the skies for their long trips south? And why it is they they hardly ever get lost (unless they get blown off course)!

We don’t yet fully understand how it is that birds are so good at finding their way to their winter homes. But they know that birds can use different senses to help them navigate as they migrate. They can help set their direction using the position of the sun and stars. They can also use landmarks, just like we do, to help them know where they are. One other special way birds can navigate is to use Earth’s magnetic field. Just like birds we can navigate using this magnetic field, unlike birds we cannot sense this ourselves but we can use a magnetic compass.

In our “Navigate Like a Bird” activity You will make your own compass at using materials you have at home! You will need:

Sewing needle about 1-2 inches long
Small bar magnet or refrigerator magnet
A small piece of cork (a flat piece from a wine bottle works but make sure it is cork and not plastic)
A shallow bowl
Water
Pliers

Remember needles are sharp, so you will need a trusted adult to help you with this activity.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of a Pectoral Sandpiper in the wild!

September 11, 2024

Birds Connect Our World – Day 68

Migratory Bird of the Day: Semipalmated Sandpiper

Meet our first ‘Migratory Bird of the Day’ for 2024, the Semipalmated Sandpiper! Despite being pint-sized and gray-brown in color, this bird is anything but boring! For a start do you know why it has such a curious name? ‘Semipalmated’ refers to the bird’s partially webbed toes—amongst the other small sandpipers this trait is only shared with the Western Sandpiper!

Semipalmated Sandpipers belong to the exclusive ‘peep’ club, a group of small, tricky-to-identify sandpiper species. Semipalmated Sandpipers can be separated from their cousins, the Least and Western Sandpipers, by a few subtle details. Least Sandpipers have yellow legs, a thin slightly down-curved bill, and their upperparts are a warmer brown hue, while Semipalmateds sport dark legs, straighter, slightly thicker bills, and are more gray-brown in color.

Separating Semipalmateds from Westerns can be challenging even for experienced birders since both have gray-brown upperparts and dark legs. Start by looking at bill length and shape. Semipalmated Sandpipers typically have shorter, blunter and straighter bills compared to Western Sandpipers, whose bills are typically longer and curve down slightly at the tip. Western Sandpiper can also look ‘chunkier’ and more ‘front-heavy’. You can find some more great ID tips for separating peeps in our video here (be sure to read the caption too!).

Though tiny, Semipalmated Sandpipers are mighty when it comes to migration! They travel thousands of kilometers from their breeding areas in the Arctic to their wintering grounds in South America with the Caribbean serving as an essential pit stop to refuel. On migration they are often found in flocks (sometimes of thousands of birds), and often with other ‘peeps’. They feast on aquatic invertebrates that live in the surface layer of the muddy habitats they prefer. You can spot them on mudflats, beaches, on the edges of ponds and lagoons, and even in muddy agricultural areas!

Sadly, Semipalmated Sandpiper populations are in decline, and they’re currently listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN. Habitat loss, hunting, and changes in their food supply pose threats to these birds during the course of their long journey. That’s why it’s crucial to protect wetlands across the Caribbean and ensure that these tiny travelers have safe places to rest and feed on their amazing journeys south each year. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Alex Sansom for the text and Arnaldo Toledo for the lovely illustration!

Color in the Semipalmated Sandpiper

Listen to the calls of the Semipalmated Sandpiper

The calls of the Semipalmated Sandpiper include a strident “jer-jer-jer-jer-jer” as well as softer chirping calls made when in flocks and sometimes in flight.

Enjoy these photos of Semipalmated Sandpipers

Semipalmated Sandpiper perched on a rock — Semipalmated Sandpiper. These small sandpipers build up and store fat reserves before migrating. This means they make amazing non-stop trips, with some individuals probably migrating over 4000km directly from New England in the US to South America! (Photo by Anthony Levesque Macaulay Library-ML67930001)

Semipalmated Sandpiper standing next to a Western Sandpiper — Semipalmated Sandpiper (left) and Western Sandpiper (right). You can see the shorter, straighter bill of the Semipalmated Sandpiper. This feature can be great for ID but there is an overlap in bill length between both species, so also take note the ‘heavier’ appearance of the Western Sandpiper and the slight ‘barrel chested’ look. (Photo by Jeff Gerbracht)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS: Test your shorebird ID skills with our “Spot the Semipalmated Sandpiper” challenge! Small sandpipers or ‘peeps’ can look very similar to each other. As well as their small size, they share other similar features—both have plumage that is brown or grey above and white below, pointed black-coloured bills, and a habit of feeding in muddy wetland areas. You can pick out Semipalmated Sandpipers if you look very carefully. You need to pay special attention to their leg color, back color, and bill size and shape. Read the text above, watch our handy ID video, and look closely at the pictures we have shared. Once you’ve done this take a look and see if you can pick out the Semipalmated Sandpiper! (there are some extra tips for you on the second page if you get stuck). You can find the correct answer here.

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS: Enjoy this video of a Semipalmated Sandpiper in the wild! This bird is on the mud feeding on ‘biofilm’. This is made up of microorganisms living on the surface of the mud that are stuck together. They eat this by slurping the biofilm into their bill!

June 14, 2024

From the Nest – Day 158

Celebrate the Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival (CEBF) with us! Our theme in 2024 is “Protect Insects, Protect Birds”—highlighting the importance of protecting insects for birds and our environment. Have fun learning about a new endemic bird every day. We have colouring pages, puzzles, activities, and more. Download for free and enjoy learning about and celebrating nature!

Endemic Bird of the Day: Cuban Kite

Today we delve into the natural history of a fascinating, elusive, and controversial bird—the Cuban Kite (Chondrohierax wilsonii)! It is a distant and mysterious relative of the widely known Hook-billed Kite (Chondrohierax uncinatus). The Cuban Kite is an endemic species confined to the beautiful island of Cuba where it is called Gavilán Caguarero.

Although once sighted in various regions, from the lush savannas of Cienfuegos to the wetlands of the Zapata Swamp, its presence nowadays is restricted to the far eastern part of Cuba, specifically in the provinces of Holguín and Guantánamo. Unfortunately, its appearance in these territories has become so rare that there are serious concerns about its possible extinction, or at least its imminent functional disappearance.

The taxonomic history of the Cuban Kite has been as intriguing as its existence in the wild. Named by the prominent ornithologist John Cassin in the 19th century, this bird has gone through periods of uncertainty regarding its taxonomic status, oscillating between being considered an independent species and then as a subspecies of the Hook-billed Kite. However, it has recently regained its status as a separate species, a well-deserved recognition for this marvelous raptor.

One of the most distinctive features of the Cuban Kite is its plumage and massive bill, which reveal its unique identity. With its broad wings and barred tail, and a notably large and hooked yellow bill, this elegant raptor stood out in the Cuban landscape. It was once incorrectly believed that the Cuban Kite feasted on birds, especially doves, and the occasional lizard. But this Cuban emblem has a more sophisticated palate and prefers escargot. This bird feeds exclusively on tree snails! In the eastern part of Cuba its primary food source is the Cuban painted snail (Polymicta picta), however this species does not occur in its former range in west-central Cuba, where tree snails of the genus Liguus (presumably L. fasciatus and L. vittatus, based on range) might be its alternative food source. The Cuban Kite uses its strong hooked bill to pierce or crush the mollusk’s shell before slurping up the soft snail. As a famous animated lion cub once said, “Slimy…yet satisfying!”

Currently there are no sound recordings for the Cuban Kite, but in flight calls are believed to be very similar to that of the Hook-billed Kite. Additionally, with just a handful of sightings, most recently in 2010, information on its breeding ecology, and other social or antagonistic behaviours remain unknown.

However, ornithologists are certain that the survival of the Cuban Kite is in jeopardy. Habitat destruction, indiscriminate snail collection, and direct persecution by farmers who mistakenly believe it preys on their poultry represent significant threats to its existence. The shells of the snails that the kite feeds on come in a wide variety of colors: pastel yellow and pink, brick red and black, pearly white and ochre and are sought by collectors who sell them to tourists or trade them to the US and Europe.

The Cuban Kite reminds us of the fragility of wildlife and the importance of our role as stewards of nature. It is crucial to organize expeditions to search for the Cuban Kite and implement urgent conservation measures, ranging from the protection of its vital habitat to public awareness of the importance of preserving this unique and little-known species. Every effort to protect this majestic bird contributes to maintaining Cuba’s rich biodiversity and preserving an invaluable treasure for future generations. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Nils Navarro for the text!

Colour in the Cuban Kite

Puzzle of the Day

Cuban Kite painting — The Cuban Kite was once seen across Cuba. Today its presence is likely restricted to the far eastern part of Cuba, specifically in the provinces of Holguín and Guantánamo. Unfortunately, sightings of this bird are so rare that there are serious concerns about its possible extinction, or at least its imminent functional disappearance. (Art by Nils Navarro)

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : The only food the Cuban Kite will eat is tree snails! They use their huge strong hooked bills to pierce or crush the snail’s shell, before slurping up its soft insides.

Can you help this hungry Cuban Kite find its way through our maze to to grab some tasty snails?

You can find the correct route here.

June 12, 2024

From the Nest – Day 157

Endemic Bird of the Day: Jamaican Crow

The Jamaican Crow (Corvus jamaicensis), otherwise locally known as the ‘Jabbering Crow,’ is endemic to Jamaica and is the only species of crow on the island! They are infamous for their loud and distinctive call, consisting of a harsh “Craaaa” and various nasal jabbering, bubbling sounds. It’s a call that will surely scare the wits out of any person in the forest who is unfamiliar with this crow’s presence.

The Jamaican Crow has sooty gray-black plumage and a thick and heavy black bill. It is the smallest species of crow in the Caribbean, with a length ranging from 35-38cm. Despite this fact, it is actually the largest of the fully black birds found in Jamaica. They are often seen perched high in the trees in small flocks of up to five individuals. These birds are frequently observed in forested areas at elevations above 500m and are reported to migrate to lower regions in the dry season. They are also observed in farms, gardens, and urban areas, including towns—there just might be one outside your window!

Jamaican Crows are omnivores. They forage for fruits like soursop, banana, and plantain—but also leave no leaf or bark unturned in search of protein-rich insects. They can be found inspecting epiphytes for lizards, frogs, and other small animals. They also have an appetite for bird eggs and nestlings! They are known particularly to raid the nests of wild pigeons.They intimidate their victims with harsh vocalizations and even physical contact to get their beaks on the prized eggs. Instead of nesting in tree cavities like other crows, they usually build their nests on a high platform in tall trees. Research is needed on this species’ breeding season, clutch size, and incubation and nestling periods which remain undescribed.

Whilst the Jamaican Crow is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List, little is known about the main threats to this species. Since this crow has been observed spreading into parts of the island outside of their habitat range, notably in Westmoreland and Manchester, it is possible that they are threatened by habitat loss. The Jamaican Crow, and many other birds in Jamaica, will benefit from policies that prevent the unsustainable destruction of forests and intensive reforestation efforts where needed. Learn more about this species, including its range, photos, and calls here. Great news! If you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to BirdsCaribbean, you have free access to Birds of the World and you can find out even more in the full species account of this bird!

Thanks to Arnaldo Toledo for the illustration and Damion Whyte for the text!

Colour in the Jamaican Crow

Listen to the call of the Jamaican Crow

The calls of the Jamaican Crow are an emphatic harsh “raaaa” sometimes given in a series.

Puzzle of the Day

Activity of the Day

FOR KIDS : Can you work out what the Jamaican Crow saying? Test your skills to decode our Jamaican Crow Cryptogram! Once you’ve decoded the message you can can check the solution to the puzzle here.

When you have completed the cryptogram why not use the key to make your own cryptic crow messages and challenge your friends and family to decode them!

FOR KIDS AND ADULTS : Enjoy this video of a Jamaican Crow in the wild!