Bird watching

While Trinidad and Tobago are called Caribbean Islands, their ecosystems and range of bird life are more similar to Venezuela, Panama and Costa Rica than to the other West Indies.

Many bird watchers who want to get their first experience in Central American birds select this nation for several reasons, beyond the fact that the birds are some of the most colorful in the world.

First, the range of species is more limited so distinguishing between similar birds is not as difficult. The rain forest ecosystem is one where birds hide themselves well, yet several of the visit spots have set up a wide range of feeders and plantings which attract and make the birds not only observable, but easily photographed. Most of these places also have experienced birders on staff to help both experts and beginners. Bird identification books are readily available for Trinidad and Tobago including two by Richard French: the full 426 page Guide to the Birds of Trinidad & Tobago and a thin book with photos and descriptions of the most easily seen species.

Supporting these advantages is the relative safety of this English-speaking country, good scenery and beaches, quaint hotels and guest houses, and fairly decent though sometimes narrow roads. For those willing to drive on the left, the local drivers generally follow the rules of the road.