Did you know that the simple act of noticing a bird in your backyard could be key to saving a species? From the misty peaks of the Blue Mountains in Jamaica to the sun-drenched mangroves of Bonaire, our 187 endemic bird species are a shared heritage found nowhere else on Earth—and it’s up to us to protect them. As we prepare for the 2026 Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival (CEBF), we are calling on everyone—tell your parents, your friends, even your Nan—to turn their eyes to the skies, the trees, and the ground (we can’t forget our beloved doves!). This year we are celebrating, counting, and conserving our birds together.

CEBF begins on April 22nd (Earth Day) and runs through May 22nd (International Biodiversity Day). This annual regional festival raises awareness of the amazing birds that live only in the Caribbean—their natural history, the threats to their survival, and how we can act to protect them and ensure that they thrive for generations to come. 

This year’s theme “Every Bird Counts – Your Observations Matter” shines the spotlight on the power of citizen science, reminding us that you don’t need a lab coat or a PhD to contribute to science; you just need curiosity and a genuine love for nature and community. When we say “Every Bird Counts,” we mean it. Whether it is a tiny, iridescent Antillean Crested Hummingbird darting through your garden or the elusive Imperial Amazon (Sisserou) high up in the canopy in the rainforest, every single sighting you record provides a vital data point. These observations help us build a regional map showing us exactly where our endemic species are thriving and where they might be in trouble.

This community-collected data is the backbone of informed conservation action because we cannot protect what we do not know. By involving everyone, from curious school children to seasoned experts, we create a massive, islands-wide “neighborhood watch” for our birds. By involving the whole community, we move people beyond casual observation and into the role of proud environmental stewards. Cool, right? 

Your contributions help scientists  identify which habitats need urgent protection and provide real-time results through platforms like eBird. This allows us to see population trends as they happen, giving us the power to respond faster to environmental changes and ensure our endemic birds are around for years to come.

A little more on citizen science…

While professional biologists work tirelessly to study and protect our birds, they cannot be everywhere at once. That is where you come in. Citizen science is a powerful collaboration where everyday people all around the world collect data, by watching and recording birds mostly on phones via eBird checklists—this data helps scientists solve real-world problems. In the Caribbean, many of our endemic birds live on just a single island, making them incredibly vulnerable to habitat loss, pollution, illegal trapping/killing, and climate change. To protect them, we first need to know exactly where they are and how their populations are changing. Your observations tell scientists if a species is declining or expanding its range and provide the “hard data” needed to advocate for the protection of critical forests, wetlands, and even green spaces within cities. 

To our fabulous island coordinators, this year is an invitation to mentor a new generation of citizen scientists, sharing your deep knowledge and passion to help the movement grow. To our new participants—welcome! This is your invitation to join your community in protecting and promoting your incredible natural heritage. If you’re new to citizen science you’ll want to read this beginner’s guide. There is an immense sense of pride in knowing that your backyard is part of a global treasure, and by participating, you are ensuring it stays that way. You don’t need expensive gear to make a difference; you just need a pair of binoculars or a keen eye. If you don’t own a pair of binoculars yet, don’t let that stop you! Your local coordinators and environmental organizations will have binoculars available for use at their CEBF events. They will teach you how to use the binoculars to get a crystal-clear look at our endemic icons, identify them, and make sure they count toward your checklist. 

A lot more on community connection…

If you are looking for more than birdwatching and checklists, you have come to the right place. Our enthusiastic island coordinators and educators infuse the festival with a vibrant mix of in-person and online events that turn learning about birds into an unforgettable experience. It’s about reconnecting with nature, discovering hidden talents, strengthening our collective power to improve our communities, and taking pride in the vibrant biodiversity that defines our islands. It’s about exploring together, pulling up those boots and venturing into mangroves, dry forests, and wetlands that we often pass by every day without realizing the biodiversity they hold. 

Most importantly, it’s about belonging. By joining an event, you become part of a massive movement dedicated to ensuring that bird conservation becomes a seamless part of our daily lives. We want every Caribbean citizen to stand ready and knowledgeable, equipped with the facts, to speak up for our birds and the places they call home. Whether it’s advocating for the protection of a local wetland from unsustainable development, discouraging the illegal trapping and persecution of our endemic birds or simply sharing why a healthy forest matters for both birds and people, your voice is a powerful tool. When joined with a chorus of like-minded nature lovers, that voice becomes an unstoppable force for the Caribbean’s wildlife.

So what else can you expect at a CEBF event? 

These events are usually held where life happens: on school grounds, in lush Botanical Gardens in cities, or at visitor centers bringing together students and teachers, local community groups, religious organizations, and service clubs like Rotary. Last year, the Environmental Awareness Group in Antigua even hosted a special birding tour for the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force! Everyone is encouraged to come as they are: to think, to question, to challenge, and to exchange stories through:

Guided Birding Walks: Explore local hotspots with knowledgeable guides who help you spot birds and master your binoculars.

Creative Workshops: From bird-themed “Sip & Paint” sessions to photography classes and youth art contests.

Habitat Restoration: Roll up your sleeves for mangrove plantings and beach clean-ups to give our birds a cleaner, safer home.

Games & Interactive Science: Get hands-on with fun experiments and games that reveal how different beaks work, to discovering all the amazing ways birds survive.

“Birdscaping” Your Backyard: Learn which native plants turn your garden into the neighborhood hotspot where all the birds want to be.

Virtual Festivals: Can’t make it in person? Join webinars and social media posts that connect bird lovers across the entire Caribbean.

Here are seven reasons why you CANNOT miss the CEBF 2026! 

Meet the “watch” captains

Here are a few members of our powerhouse alliance of local NGOs and educators across the region. 

Jamaica: BirdLife Jamaica, the Natural History Museum of Jamaica (NHMJ), Caribbean Coastal Area Management 

Cuba: Empresa Flora y Fauna Matanzas, Grupo Ecologia de Aves, Empresa Flora y Fauna Santiago de Cuba, Museo de Historia Natural “Tomas Romay Chacón”, BIOECO, Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt, Museo de Historia Natural Joaquin Fernandez de la Vara Pi Gibara

Dominican Republic: SOH Conservacion, Grupo Jaragua

Puerto Rico: Estuario de la Bahia de San Juan, Con Ciencia Ciudadana PR Inc 

Antigua & Barbuda: Environmental Awareness Group (EAG) Antigua, BarbudanGO

St Eustatius: St. Eustatius National Parks Foundation

Dominica: WildDominique

Trinidad & Tobago: Trinidad and Tobago Bird Observatory and Research and Research Centre, ECONETICS

Don’t see your island listed? Use our CEBF Coordinators Directory to connect with local conservation organizations and find out what’s going on near you! 

If you would like to coordinate your own CEBF event (and we really would love that!), please get in touch via email: cebf@birdscaribbean.org, Aliya.Hosein@birdscaribbean.org and Lisa.Sorenson@birdscaribbean.org 

Got a serious case of FOMOOTCEBF (fear of missing out on the CEBF)? Sign up for our mailing list HERE to ensure that you get the latest CEBF event news, and find out first about the fantastic celebrations happening on your island.

Good for our islands, great for your legacy.

Your support for the CEBF keeps nature education accessible to all, providing the tools and workshops needed to protect our shared natural heritage. From “birdscaping” backyards to youth art contests, every dollar helps us provide these resources at no cost to our communities. Join us in making a lasting impact—donate securely HERE* and help every bird count. *Under ‘Designate your gift’ please select Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival.

A Beginner’s Guide to Becoming a Citizen Scientist

Birds Welcome! Caribbean Communities are Becoming More Bird-Friendly

Caribbean Communities Unite for Insects and Birds: All the Buzz from the 2024 Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival

The biggest birding day of the year returns on Saturday, May 9th, 2026! Global Big Day (GBD) is more than a mass data collection event, it is a global celebration of magnificent birds and the incredible people who protect them, all focused on amplifying our potential to create a lasting, positive impact on our planet. On this day, bird enthusiasts and nature lovers around the world head outdoors to document as many bird species as possible in just 24 hours. These observations help scientists monitor bird populations, track migration patterns, and identify habitats in need of conservation.

What makes GBD truly special is that it’s open to everyone wherever they are. Whether you’re an expert birder chasing a rare endemic deep in the forest or just starting out with backyard birds, there’s a place for you in this global effort to understand and protect birds.

Compete for the Cause: Join Our Team Challenge!

We’re thrilled to bring back our popular teams competition for GBD 2026, and we’d love for you to be a part of it! Both national (individual islands) and multinational teams are invited to join in the effort to make a lasting impact on the birds and ecosystems of the Caribbean. 

We’re especially eager to see a team representing each Caribbean island, so if you don’t see your island listed here, now’s your chance to step up and take the lead (more details below). 

We are calling on you to unite with local birders to help bring attention to your island’s irreplaceable and incredible diversity of birds as well as the BirdsCaribbean programs that enhance our understanding and drive the action needed to protect these iconic species.

By participating, you and your team will play an important role in advancing our understanding of Caribbean birds and their habitats, showing the world just how incredible your island is.

Last year we had 31 teams compete with members spanning across 47 countries and raised over $64,000US to keep our core programs going. This year let’s take it to the next level—more islands, more energy, more data—and show the world how passionate and serious we are about bird conservation! 

Birding for a Cause: Empowering the Next Generation

In addition to hosting what is (unofficially) the most exciting birding competition in the region, we’ll also be raising funds to provide travel scholarships to deserving bird conservationists to attend our upcoming 25th International Conference in Trinidad and Tobago! It’s an invaluable opportunity for international networking and learning new skills to help save our Caribbean birds. 

24 Joyous Hours of Birding, Exploring, and Making Friends!

During peak migration time in the spring, birders around the world head out to their favorite birding spots, or venture into new areas, to see, hear and record as many bird species as they can in a 24-hr period of time. Global Big Day runs from midnight to midnight in your local time zone. The data is entered into eBird checklists (more about using eBird below).

No matter where you are—at home, a botanical garden, beach, river or nature reserve—you can contribute important data about the birds around you. You don’t need to be an expert birder or spend the entire day looking for birds. Just 10 minutes of birding in your backyard or from your balcony will count too. Imagine, while enjoying your morning coffee, you can also be contributing valuable data for bird conservation.

This is not Microsoft Teams

If you’re looking to make your GBD experience more social, consider teaming up with a friend or group. Pairs or groups can carpool, help out with tricky bird IDs, share equipment like spotting scopes.. and possibly snacks! 

We are calling on our community to bird together in virtual teams (you don’t need to be birding together in the same place) during Global Big Day and engage in friendly competition to see which team can: 

1) collectively see the most species of birds, and 

2) raise the most funds.  

Additional recognition will be given to

1. the team with the most creative name!
2. the “country/island team” that sees the highest proportion of their birds on Global Big Day (to control for differences in the number of species on each island!)
3. the team with the best “find” of the day (unusual, rare, plumage aberration, etc.)
4. the team with the best bird photo of the day (must be posted on eBird along with your list)

Last year the Piping Pawis from Trinidad and Tobago and the Gundlach Team from Cuba swept the competition. Will your team be the one to dethrone these champs? 

The Best Global Big Day Starts with the Right Prep!

Ready to make the most of Global Big Day? Joining our competition is easy—just follow these simple steps to prepare for a successful birding adventure!

Step 1: Get Set Up with eBird
First things first, if you don’t already have one, download the eBird app and set up your account. You will need it to submit your checklist/s! It’s FREE and you can sign up here! Don’t forget to check out Getting Started with eBird to get familiar with the app.

Step 2: Join Your Island Team
By joining your island team, you’ll gain access to shared resources—if you don’t have binoculars or a field guide, other birders may offer a spotting scope and copies for you to use.

If you’d prefer your own binoculars, we recommend Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 8×42. The Birds of the West Indies, Second Edition field guide is available for purchase here. If you’re birding in the Lesser Antilles, this guide is highly recommended.

Chances are that your island already has an existing team! Team Up by heading over to our Givebutter BC GBD Teams page to find your team! Just click the ‘JOIN A TEAM’ button on the campaign page to get started. 

Step 3: Choose Your Birding Location/s
Choose your birding location carefully. Local parks, nature reserves, and wetlands offer a wide range of species. Team leaders will be your best resource for advice on where to go and the best times to visit.

Want to Create Your Own Team?

Not seeing a team for your island and want to create your own? We love your initiative! Just email Lisa.Sorenson@BirdsCaribbean.org to get set up. We’ll help you with the groundwork of getting your team set up, including setting up your must-have eBird trip report,  so that you and your crew can soar to GBD success! After setup, you’ll have full control to manage it, so be sure to really make it your own with a fun name, photos, and your own lingo!

All team leaders and members should then invite family, friends, colleagues, and members of your birding community to join your team and/or donate to your team. It helps to set your own personal fundraising goal to help your team reach its overall goal!

By inviting people to your team, you’ll be: 

(1) raising awareness for BirdsCaribbean and the critical bird research and conservation work we do in the region, 

(2) helping to raise funds to support rising Caribbean conservation leaders, and 

(3) promoting Global Big Day, citizen science, and the importance of conserving birds and their habitats.

If you can’t join the GBD team competition fun this year, you can still show support by making a donation.

Why We Really Need Your Support this Global Big Day

This Global Big Day fundraiser will fund travel scholarships for Caribbean students and wildlife professionals to attend our upcoming International Conference, 23rd – 27th July, 2026, in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. These are dedicated persons who are on the ground, doing the work everyday to secure a future for birds and their habitats. Attending the conference is an invaluable opportunity for them to 1) build upon or gain new skills to address threats to bird conservation on their respective islands, and 2)  network with the wider conservation community, share their work, and learn from others. For Caribbean students, this experience will help to kickstart their introduction into the ornithological and conservation community and they will benefit from mentorship opportunities.

Our plan is to raise funds to help cover travel costs that will allow deserving participants to attend—including covering registration, airfare and/or hotel costs as necessary.

We hope everyone, whether or not they join a team or fundraise, will commit to spending some time (or the entire day!) birding on Global Big Day (May 9), being sure to keep track of what you see and then enter that information into eBird. 

As with everything in the Caribbean, we will be successful when our whole community pitches in, so let’s do this together! We need your help to do this!

#GBD2025 Recap: Big Wins for Birds and Birders in the Caribbean

BirdsCaribbean Global Big Day 2025 Photography Awards

Global Big Day 2024: A Record-Shattering Day for the Caribbean!

BirdsCaribbean Global Big Day 2024 Photography Awards

BirdsCaribbean is pleased to announce the 2026 cohort of grantees under three prestigious named awards, the David S. Lee Fund for the Conservation of Caribbean Birds, the James A. Kushlan Research and Conservation Fund, and the Betty Petersen Conservation Fund.

These ten projects aim to advance the study and conservation of avifauna in five different Caribbean countries: Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Trinidad and Tobago.

In this article, you can read about the exciting plans proposed by each awardee. Stay tuned for results and accomplishments featured in future issues of the Journal of Caribbean Ornithology, blog articles, and presentations at our upcoming 25th BirdsCaribbean International Conference in Trinidad and Tobago this summer.

Congratulations to these outstanding researchers and conservationists from our BirdsCaribbean community! 

David S. Lee Fund for the Conservation of Caribbean Birds

Comprehensive Study and Assessment of the Status of Cuba’s Endemic Quail-Dove Populations in Zapata Swamp

Abel Luis Simeón, Empresa para la Conservación de la Ciénaga de Zapata (ECOCIENZAP)

The Blue-headed Quail-Dove (Starnoenas cyanocephala) (Endangered) and the Gray-fronted Quail-Dove (Geotrygon caniceps) (Vulnerable) are two endemic species of Cuba with poorly studied biology and declining populations. The Zapata Swamp is home to key populations of both species, but the lack of up-to-date data on their density, habitat use, and specific threats hinders the implementation of effective conservation actions. 

This project will assess the population status and characterize the critical habitat of both species in the Zapata Swamp using linear transects. This research will generate a robust baseline, identify direct threats to the species, and delineate the most important areas for protection. Additionally, the findings will be shared with protected area managers to update conservation strategies, published in the Journal of Caribbean Ornithology, and summarized in outreach materials for the local community, ensuring that science translates into tangible conservation.

Exploring the Persistence and Prevalence of Micro-dialects in Vervain Hummingbird Song

Katja Kochvar, Princeton University

This project aims to explore the remarkably complex song of the Vervain Hummingbird, an endemic species of Hispaniola and Jamaica that has received little scientific attention. Based on previous recordings obtained of singing males in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, the project aims to investigate evidence of micro-dialects: localized song variations where neighboring groups of males perform distinct repertoires of unique note types.

The project aims to build upon preliminary evidence that these micro-dialects are prevalent in Punta Cana and have persisted across years, although the composition of the repertoires has experienced significant turnover. Katja will return to Punta Cana to 1) gather conclusive evidence of the prevalence and persistence of all seven identified micro-dialects, and 2) pilot a study on the impact of urban development on song clustering patterns. Ultimately, these proposed studies will not only further our understanding of micro-dialects in an understudied species but also provide important insights into cultural evolution and the impact of urban development on animal behavior.

Ecology of Bare-legged Owl (Margarobyas lawrencii), an endemic strigid in Cuba

Jean Michel De Jongh, University of Havana

The charming Bare-legged Owl (Margarobyas lawrencii) is endemic to Cuba that relies on dense forests and natural cavities for nesting. Unfortunately, accelerating habitat loss has led to its recent inclusion on the IUCN Red List, highlighting an urgent need for conservation data.

Based in western Cuba, this study pursues three primary objectives: 1) evaluating the physical characteristics and preservation status of existing collections, 2) characterizing the species’ breeding behaviors and nesting requirements, and 3) comparing seasonal shifts in prey consumption over a full annual cycle.

Migratory connectivity of passerines in two key green areas in Havana, Cuba: Unraveling their journeys

Laura Arañaburo Acosta, Bird Ecology Group, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana

Migratory bird species are highly vulnerable, especially in the Caribbean, a critical region facing habitat loss and climate change. Effective conservation requires an understanding of “migratory connectivity”—how populations are linked across their breeding and non-breeding ranges. In Cuba, a key wintering site for migratory birds is Havana where urban green spaces provide refuge for these mighty travelers. However, the breeding origins of the birds using these sites are unknown, preventing an assessment of their conservation significance and vulnerability to local threats. To address this critical gap, Laura aims to determine the degree of migratory connectivity for passerine birds in two green areas in Havana: the National Botanical Garden and the Havana’s Botanical Garden Quinta de los Molinos.

Integrated methodology of systematic bird banding, stable isotope analysis of feathers to infer breeding origins, and the deployment of Motus nanotags for direct tracking will be used in this project. The findings will pinpoint the breeding regions of these populations, enabling a rigorous evaluation of the sites’ importance and establishing a scientific baseline to inform targeted conservation strategies for migratory birds in Cuba.

Functional composition changes across an island urbanization gradient after 20 years

Miguel J. Costas Sabatier, University of Puerto Rico

Urbanization is a global challenge, fundamentally reshaping landscapes and resources in ways that often lead to a loss of biodiversity. While some species struggle to survive in cities, others actually thrive. Understanding why certain animals succeed while others fail is now a top priority for conservation.

By analyzing bird sightings in northeastern Puerto Rico—comparing data from 2005 to new samples today—this project investigates how specific physical and behavioral traits (such as diet or nesting habits) help species adapt to city life. The study aims to: 1) determine if certain traits consistently appear as neighborhoods become more urban, 2) compare how functional diversity (the variety of roles species play in an ecosystem) differs between natural forests and urban centers, and 3) pinpoint which trait combinations missing from cities to help inform future urban planning and wildlife protection.

James A. Kushlan Research and Conservation Fund

Do the small urban wetlands of Havana city contribute to waterbird conservation in Cuba?

Alieny González Alfonso, Grupo de Ecología de Aves, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de La Habana

Wetlands are among the world’s most threatened ecosystems, directly impacting the waterbirds that depend on them for survival. While urbanization is a leading cause of wetland loss and fragmentation, small urban wetlands should not be dismissed as mere degraded remnants. Instead, these sites continue to support diverse bird populations and function as vital ecological corridors. As urban development escalates in Havana, maintaining up-to-date data on bird populations has become imperative.

This study aims to characterize waterbird assemblages across three urban coastal wetlands, describing their seasonal variations and using systematic surveys to assess the primary human disturbances affecting them.

Current status and dynamics of marine and coastal bird diversity elements in the Guanahacabibes Peninsula Biosphere Reserve in Cuba

Dalila Lezcano García, AMA-CITMA

The Guanahacabibes Peninsula Biosphere Reserve is a cornerstone of Cuban biodiversity and an Important Bird Area (IBA); its pristine condition and location support diverse bird assemblages and a steady increase in new species records. Despite its ecological importance, the aquatic component remains among the least studied at the Reserve. This project aims to conserve the Reserve’s marine and coastal birds and strengthen local management capacities.

Dalila will employ standardized seasonal monitoring via linear transects and fixed counting points to provide a detailed characterization of nesting colonies and demographic parameters for populations of these birds. These results will establish a vital baseline to identify population trends and inform specific conservation strategies for the National Park’s Management and Operational Plans. Ultimately, this work will fill existing knowledge gaps and provide the protection necessary for the future of Caribbean aquatic birdlife.

Betty Petersen Conservation Fund

Implementation of a Strategy in Vulnerable Communities to Reduce the Illegal Capture of Wild Birds in Gibara, Cuba

Ailen Anido Escalona, Museo de Historia Natural Joaquín Fernández, Gibara, Cuba de la Vara Pi

This project aims to mitigate the capture and illegal trade of wild birds in vulnerable rural and coastal communities of Gibara, Cuba, by expanding a community-based conservation strategy successfully implemented in 2024–2025. The initiative will cover eight priority communities, including areas severely affected by Hurricane Melissa, where bird trapping has increased as an immediate economic alternative. Through an integrated approach that combines environmental education, community participation, participatory monitoring, strengthened support from local government, and ecological restoration with 1,000 native plants, the project will empower citizens—especially children, teachers, caregivers, and youth—to become active defenders of bird conservation. Activities include training workshops, school programs, cultural and artistic initiatives, community patrols alongside the Forest Rangers Corps, festivals, media campaigns, and the development of digital and audiovisual educational platforms. 

Protecting the Pawi: Community Bird-Guide Training for Regenerative Conservation in Trinidad’s Northern Range

Giselle Ragoonanan, HADCO Experiences Ltd Department of Sustainability & Conservation

The Trinidad Piping-Guan (Pipile pipile), or locally called ‘Pawi’, is both Critically Endangered, and confined to Trinidad’s Northern Range. As a flagship and indicator species for the island’s montane forests, its presence reflects the health of one of the region’s most biodiverse ecosystems. This project will strengthen local stewardship of the Pawi by training ten to fifteen residents from the Brasso Seco and Morne La Croix villages as community bird guides and citizen scientists. Through hands-on field sessions led by Hadco Experiences’ Department of Biodiversity and Conservation, participants will learn bird identification, forest ecology, guiding interpretation, and wildlife documentation. 

Trainees will use digital tools such as eBird to record observations and Merlin Sound ID to document Pawi vocalizations, linking local knowledge with global monitoring platforms. The training connects scientific observation with opportunity, equipping participants to develop community-run bird tours that generate income while protecting critical habitat. By coupling Pawi monitoring with ecotourism skill-building, the project creates a sustainable model for conserving Trinidad’s birds through informed, locally driven action.

Conservation of the CE Ridgway’s Hawk in Les Cayemites Islands, Haiti

Anderson Jean, Action pour la Sauvegarde de l’Écologie en Haïti (ACSEH)

Since rediscovering the Critically Endangered Ridgway’s Hawk (Buteo ridgwayi) in Haiti in 2019, field surveys, nest monitoring, and community engagement have been ongoing, thanks to funding from The Peregrine Fund and BirdsCaribbean.  The estimated the current population is 40 individuals.

This project aims to work with local residents to find nests and better understand threats to the hawks from agriculture, charcoal production, and direct human persecution. To reduce these threats, the project aims to conduct education and outreach programs to create awareness in schools and communities, particularly among farmers who reside and farm near active hawk nests. To date, these efforts have reached 2000 people, or 40% of the local population.

Despite significant advances in collecting demographic data and working with local residents to reduce threats, much remains to be done to protect the hawks. The project has surveyed less than one-third of the potential nesting area, and hawks still face persecution. Additional funding aims to allow the project to continue and expand survey work and nest monitoring, while also expanding work with local communities to reduce threats to the species.

Are you working on or planning a research or conservation project with Caribbean birds?

The next call for proposals will be advertised in the fall of 2026. Members of BirdsCaribbean conducting research and conservation work are eligible to apply. Stay informed and don’t miss our announcements by subscribing to our monthly newsletter, joining our listserve, and following us on social media (@BirdsCaribbean on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn).

BirdsCaribbean thanks our generous donors for supporting these awards and encourages others to donate to these programs, as well as to consider endowments or other large awards to ensure that our vital grants programs can continue indefinitely. You can help us continue supporting these invaluable projects by making a donation here. You can select the specific Fund you would like your donation to go to by clicking on ‘Change’ under SELECTED FUND. 

If you prefer to donate with a check, please make the check out to “BirdsCaribbean” and in the memo section, note the fund you are donating to. If you have questions or need to make other arrangements for donating, please feel free to contact Alexia Morales, BirdsCaribbean Operations Manager (alexia.morales@birdscaribbean.org). Checks can be mailed to: BirdsCaribbean, 841 Worcester St. #130, Natick, MA 01760-2076

Every two years, a powerful gathering of scientists, educators, students, conservationists, tour guides, and artists from across the Caribbean and beyond come together at BirdsCaribbean’s International Conference. This year’s conference—our Silver Anniversary!—will take place in Trinidad and Tobago at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad from 23-27 July 2026. More than 300 international delegates are expected to convene in the twin-island nation to share the latest advances in Caribbean bird science, conservation and education.

The theme for the conference is:

“Birds, People, Prosperity: Harnessing the Caribbean’s Natural Advantage.”

The Caribbean’s environment is not a resource to be exploited and depleted — it is our competitive edge to be invested in and protected. This theme frames Caribbean biodiversity as investable capital, positioning conservation and ecotourism as engines of shared prosperity. We challenge the outdated “development vs. environment” narrative and call for a bold recognition of our region’s true strength: proudly owning, protecting, and advancing the natural assets that can power a sustainable future.

This theme highlights the power of birds and nature as drivers of resilient economic growth. By investing in conservation and nature-based tourism, Caribbean nations can transform their extraordinary biodiversity into opportunity — strengthening local economies, supporting communities, and safeguarding ecosystems. It’s a call to value our natural heritage not only as treasures to protect, but as a foundation for long-term prosperity.

“For too long, we’ve been told that economic growth must come at the expense of the environment,” said Executive Director Lisa Sorenson. “This conference challenges that narrative. By focusing on ‘Birds, People, and Prosperity,’ we are building a future, grounded in science and community leadership, where the Caribbean’s natural assets drive both resilience and regional wealth. Join us as we harness our natural advantage and build a future where nature and prosperity grow together.”

Agenda highlights: What to expect

The 2026 program is designed to turn vision into action. From scaling the Caribbean Birding Trail and advancing landbird and seabird monitoring, to empowering communities to protect their iconic species, the agenda will feature dynamic symposia, hands-on workshops, and forward-looking discussions.

Just as important, this conference is a catalyst for professional growth. It’s where cross-island partnerships are formed, new collaborations begin, and the next generation of conservation leaders step forward. Whether you are a seasoned expert or emerging professional, this is where connections are made — and momentum builds.

We will also organize pre-, post-, and mid-conference field trips to some of Trinidad and Tobago’s most spectacular birding hotspots. Delegates will have opportunities to visit world-renowned sites, such as Asa Wright Nature Centre, Caroni Swamp, Nariva Swamp, Mt. Plaisir Estate Hotel (and the nearby Pawi Lodge!), and the oldest legally protected forest reserve in the Western Hemisphere — Tobago’s Main Ridge Forest Reserve —among many others. We’ll be offering a selection of unforgettable 1-,2-,3-day (and possibly even longer) trips over the 5 days before and after the conference — stay tuned, because you’ll want to book early!

And what would a BirdsCaribbean conference be without our famous not-so-silent Silent Auction, the BirdsCaribbean Raffle (hello, brand-new spotting scope!), the Photo Contest (and new binoculars!), and the new crowd favorite: the Epic Caribbean Bird Song Showdown? Expect energy, laughter, and a whole lot of bird-loving fun.

Planning is well underway. Our conference website (currently under construction) will soon feature details on the program, logistics, field trips, travel scholarships, and registration. We’ve also arranged preferred accommodation rates for our delegates and will be sharing those booking links soon!

The Call for Keynote and Plenary Speakers and Call for Proposals  for Workshops, Symposia, Round-table Discussions is OPEN now – details here; deadline to submit is Friday, 27 March. The Call for Abstracts for oral and poster presentations will open by 30 March.

For now, spread the word and block the dates on your calendar.

If you haven’t already, sign up for the BirdsCaribbean listserv — the best place to receive conference updates and news about funding and training workshops. We also share all announcements on our social media so give us a follow (@BirdsCaribbean). Finally, subscribe to our monthly newsletter — we’ll send the latest news on exciting Caribbean bird research and conservation projects, as well as opportunities to get involved.

Sponsorship & Support

We’re thrilled to have HADCO Experiences — our Pawi-level sponsor and official Conference Co-Host — and the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism, Government of the Rebublic of Trinidad and Tobago already on board. Their leadership and commitment to regenerative tourism and sustainable Caribbean development are helping make this landmark event possible, and we are deeply grateful for their partnership.

HADCO Experiences, who were recently awarded the prestigious Green Key certification for the Asa Wright Nature Centre and Mt Plaisir Estate Hotel, champions environmental stewardship at the core of all their operations. This partnership reflects our shared vision of a Caribbean where conservation and sustainable tourism thrive together — benefiting both people and wildlife.

To ensure the conference’s success, we need your support. For every conference, we offer travel and attendance scholarships to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent deserving delegates from attending, contributing, and benefiting from the conference proceedings. We want to ensure that BirdsCaribbean conferences always remain accessible and inclusive spaces that foster the next generation of Caribbean conservation leaders. Your contribution can help bring frontline conservationists, students, and educators from across the region to share knowledge, build skills, and strengthen our collective impact.

Interested in sponsoring a delegate or becoming a conference sponsor? Please contact:
Alexia Morales — Alexia.Morales@BirdsCaribbean.org
Lisa Sorenson — Lisa.Sorenson@BirdsCaribbean.org

From February to July 2026, birders and nature enthusiasts across the Caribbean are invited to record bird sounds, strengthen the region’s bird sound collections, and help train automated audio identification tools such as Merlin Sound ID.

BirdsCaribbean, in partnership with the Grabando Aves initiative, is launching the Caribbean Sound Recording Challenge 2026, a regional call to record and share bird sounds from February through July 2026, anywhere in the Caribbean.

For the purpose of this challenge, the Caribbean region includes: Bermuda, The Bahamas, the Greater Antilles, the Lesser Antilles, Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Trinidad and Tobago, Providencia, San Andrés, Swan islands, and offshore islands and cays of Venezuela.

What is the challenge?

Participants of all experience levels are invited to record bird sounds and upload them to eBird, contributing to the Macaulay Library—an open-access sound library used by researchers, conservationists, and automated identification tools worldwide.

To qualify for a special prize, participants must:

• Upload more than 50 bird sound recordings (from any species) during the challenge period— February to July. Recordings may have been made previously; the key requirement is that they are uploaded during the contest period.
• Include recordings of at least three Caribbean priority species identified by the initiative.

Two prizes will be raffled among participants who meet the challenge criteria.The drawing will take place during BirdsCaribbean’s 25th International Conference, taking place 23–27 July 2026 in Trinidad.

The prize

A BRAND NEW SOUND RECORDING KIT!

The kit includes a Zoom F1 recorder and field-friendly state-of-the-art shotgun microphone! Our eardrums are tingling just thinking of the crisp audio quality you can get with this fantastic combo.

TWO PRIZES WILL BE AWARDED!

To qualify, please ensure:

1. Files are uncompressed files (WAV type)
2. Each recording is longer than 10 seconds
3. include at least some basic metadata, such as age/sex (if known), additional species heard, behavior observed, equipment used, and any notable background sounds.

Why bird sound recordings matter

Bird sound recordings are essential for understanding species distributions, and ecology. They are also a cornerstone for training automated audio identification systems such as Merlin Sound ID.

Each well-documented recording helps improve the accuracy and regional coverage of these tools, making bird identification more accessible and engaging, while supporting long-term monitoring and conservation efforts throughout the Caribbean.

Participating is easy

Joining the Caribbean Sound Recording Challenge is simple:

• Record bird sounds in the field—even recordings made with a mobile phone are welcome.
• Upload your recordings to eBird following basic editing guidelines.
• Keep recording throughout the challenge period and aim to include priority Caribbean species.

No specialized equipment or prior experience is required—just curiosity, careful listening, and a willingness to share what you hear.

Tips from the pros

Grabando Aves’ “Bird recording basics” blog. 

2025 will go down in BirdsCaribbean history as a year of profound challenges — met with incredible resilience, adaptability, grace, and collective action by the committed conservationists working to protect Caribbean birds. We faced major financial setbacks and catastrophic loss following Hurricane Melissa, yet we also witnessed the enduring strength of community and shared purpose across the region. 

Even as recovery continues, BirdsCaribbean made meaningful progress toward our mission. Dozens of Caribbean birders were empowered and trained, legions of citizen scientists went into the field to collect vital data, and we advanced protection for  some of our most threatened species. Together, we also raised thousands of dollars to keep critical conservation programs running and to deliver urgent hurricane relief where it was needed most. 

Our deepest appreciation and thanks, as always, go to our donors, volunteers, and partners. Your support made this work possible — and it’s what keeps the momentum going as we head into 2026.

Here are our 2025 highlights 

(Let’s get the hard part over with first!)

Our community kept the mission alive

Early in 2025, our mission hit a significant hurdle. Substantial federal funding was abruptly canceled, leaving our core programs in jeopardy. These funds supported essential bird research, capacity building for local conservationists, and education efforts that inspire the next generation to care deeply about birds and nature. 

Throughout this uncertainty, our community stood by us. Your support ensured that our programs continued through the year — proving that while funding streams may falter, our collective commitment to protecting Caribbean birds does not. 

Hurricane Melissa: Loss, impact, and ongoing recovery

On October 28, 2025, Hurricane Melissa — a late-season storm that rapidly intensified into a Category 5 hurricane — made a direct hit on Jamaica’s south coast at peak strength. It became the third most intense Atlantic hurricane on record, causing catastrophic damage across the island and generating the highest wind gust ever recorded (252 mph). 

Melissa tore through Jamaica and later struck eastern Cuba as a weakened but still powerful storm, causing flooding and landslides. Parts of The Bahamas and the Dominican Republic were also affected. 

In Jamaica, where some areas had barely recovered from Hurricane Beryl in 2024, an estimated 51% of forest cover was destroyed. Storm surges overwhelmed coastal habitats, and more than 100 lives were lost, mostly in Jamaica and Haiti, with hundreds injured and many still missing. Damage in Jamaica alone is conservatively estimated at US$10 billion.

In response, BirdsCaribbean launched an emergency appeal. Thanks to the tremendous generosity of our donors, we raised over US$45,000 to provide urgent relief for our conservation partners, some of whom had themselves lost homes and livelihoods. To date, we have disbursed twelve recovery grants to partners in Jamaica and Cuba, supporting efforts such as clearing trails of fallen trees and debris, repairing and rebuilding infrastructure at parks and nature reserves, and providing food for starving birds. 

We also shipped materials and supplies to rebuild damaged aviaries for birds receiving care and rehab at two facilities, Hope Zoo (Kingston) and Seven Oaks Wildlife Sanctuary. In addition, we shipped 2,000 pounds of specially blended Hurricane Melissa Energy Relief bird seed, generously donated by Lizzie Mae Bird Seed (Ohio); along with 400 hummingbird feeders to sustain famished birds. This aid is a critical lifeline for birds whose habitats were destroyed by Melissa’s devastating winds, leaving trees knocked down and stripped bare of leaves, flowers, and fruit. 

Educational materials on how to help birds after the storm were produced and shared with BirdLife Jamaica members and the University of the West Indies. These resources reached broad audiences through radio, television, and social media.

Recovery will be long and challenging, but rebuilding has begun. Urgent habitat restoration efforts are vital to help birds, many of which have suffered terribly from total habitat loss and lack of food and shelter. A major tree planting initiative led by the Jamaican Forestry Department has just begun, and offers hope for the birds devastated by Melissa. 

2025 was also a year of inspiring progress

Public education and skills training remain at the heart of our work — among our most powerful tools for helping Caribbean birds. By engaging young people and supporting experienced conservationists alike, our flagship programs continued to build momentum throughout the islands.

Sharing spaces with our beloved endemics

“It was such a fun day!” Regina, a young participant in BirdLife Jamaica’s Bring a Child Birding event.

“Look teacher, the tiny hummingbird flies super fast!” Preschool student Claudia Correa Ortíz, Cuba

The Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival (CEBF) sparked joy and engaged communities across eleven islands, from The Bahamas in the north to Margarita Island in the south. More than 7,000 people participated in in-person and virtual events, supported by 17 small grants from BirdsCaribbean. 

From April to May, organisations and institutions interpreted the theme “Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities,” highlighting the growing importance of urban conservation. This was a call to action, and many of the activities during CEBF were hands-on projects — including tree planting, making bird feeders, habitat clean-ups, and installing bird baths. Along with arts and crafts, walks and talks, it was a busy and exciting month for all involved!  

Safe communities for migratory birds, too

World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) is officially celebrated in the Caribbean in October, but activities often span August through November. In 2025, communities across thirteen islands expanded on the CEBF theme to include migratory birds that grace our gardens, parks, backyards, wetlands, and seashores each year. 

Learning took place not only in classrooms, but in “schools without walls” — parks, wetlands, coastlines, and urban gardens. In support, we printed and distributed a range of educational materials — including Animals of St. Martin, produced by our friends at Les Fruits de Mer, which is used by local primary schools; and hundreds of Birds of the West Indies coloring books for organizations in Puerto Rico.

Environment for the Americas honored four Caribbean Outstanding Educators in 2025, representing The Bahamas, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic, a well-earned recognition of their dedication to conservation education. 

Counting confusing waterbirds

During the 17th Regional Caribbean Waterbird Census (CWC), birders from seventeen islands recorded more than 86,000 birds representing at least 360 species — an impressive collective effort and a major boost to our long-term CWC database!

 In Antigua, the Environmental Awareness Group (EAG) took the opportunity to blend citizen science with capacity building by hosting a waterbird identification training program (Yes—experienced birdwatchers find waterbirds, especially shorebirds, tricky!) Read more here!

Our endangered seabirds: adding up the numbers

Launched in 2022 by BirdsCaribbean’s Seabird Working Group and Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC), the Caribbean Seabird Census marked a major first for the region. This monumental effort, involving numerous boat trips, drone surveys, and on-the-ground fieldwork, has now been officially completed. 

In September, 2025, researchers gathered for an important workshop in the Dominican Republic, supported by the Convention for Biological Diversity’s Bio-Bridge Initiative. Together, they reviewed and compiled census data, discussed protocols and systems moving forward, built skills in data processing and analysis — and committed to next steps. 

As seabirds face mounting threats across the Caribbean, the takeaway from the workshop was clear: continued collaboration and information sharing are essential to safeguard seabird populations and their future in the region.

Breaking records on Global Big Day

On Global Big Day, we take the word “big” seriously — and last year was no exception. As usual, the competition among our 31 teams was hot, and it produced spectacular results! 

On May 10, we shattered our previous records, with 895 eBird observers recording a whopping 559 West Indian species! These diligent birders went all out — submitting over 700 more checklists to eBird than in 2024. All told, including lists from our international birding teams (we deeply appreciate your support!), a total of 1,404 species were recorded, including 147 Caribbean endemics — an extraordinary show of teamwork, dedication, and birding chops!

Pro-tip: It’s never too early to start planning for Global Big Day 2026 — the time to rally your team is now! We’ll share more details soon. 

Eleven projects in six countries – lucky birds!

In 2025, we awarded funding to eleven projects across six countries: Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Cayman Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, offshore Caribbean islands in Mexico, and the Caribbean coast of Venezuela. These were awarded under the David S. Lee Fund for the Conservation of Caribbean Birds, and the James A. Kushlan Research and Conservation Fund. 

From seabird surveys on Venezuelan offshore islands to bird banding stations in Trinidad and Tobago and acoustic monitoring in Grand Cayman, grantees are hard at work — and birds are benefiting!

More Motus? Yes, please!

Motus work isn’t for the faint of heart — or those uncomfortable with heights. (A certain amount of climbing is involved!) Nevertheless, five Motus stations were happily installed last year. 

There are now 23 active stations in the region, with even more scheduled to be installed this year. Migratory birds are more threatened than ever before. This growing network of stations is helping us to understand how our migratory species move across our islands — and where conservation action can have the greatest impact.

Focusing on our most endangered species

Several BirdsCaribbean grants in 2025 focused on research and conservation efforts for particularly threatened species, from doves and parakeets, to forest-dwelling birds that urgently need intervention. 

Highlights included:

Taking action for the Grenada Dove 

In October, a diverse cross-section of citizens, non-governmental organizations, government officials, and conservationists gathered to develop an urgent Conservation Action Plan for the Critically Endangered Grenada Dove. Fewer than 200 individual birds remain, restricted to two small pockets of habitat. This workshop laid the foundation for immediate collaborative action and much-needed hope for this precious species.

Protecting St. Vincent’s threatened endemics

Two more endemics were the focus of a workshop in St. Vincent in July: the “Vincy Parrot,” the colorful St. Vincent Amazon, and the elusive Whistling Warbler. Building on recovery efforts after volcanic eruptions and hurricanes, a tremendous collaboration of organizations and individuals hammered out the details for a Conservation Action Plan for each species, to guide future management and conservation efforts. 

Five forestry officers from St. Vincent and the Grenadines strengthened their capacity to conserve native Caribbean parrots through hands-on training with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Puerto Rican Parrot Recovery Program. The exchange provided practical skills in captive breeding management, care and monitoring of wild and captive parrots, banding and radio telemetry, and essential parrot first-aid — directly supporting long-term conservation efforts for these threatened species. 

On a learning curve…

The Caribbean Bird Banding Network has indeed been networking! Launched with a workshop in The Bahamas in 2022, it continues to grow stronger. Last year saw 14 conservationists trained in Puerto Rico, while 16 participants from nine islands were trained in the Dominican Republic. And the network is expanding! This year, a new session in Trinidad is set for March. And did you know we have our own Caribbean bird bands?

What do we do with all that data?

Field monitoring tells us what’s happening — but skilled analysis tells us what to do next. Our Caribbean Landbird Monitoring Program hosted their first Monitoring Data Analysis Training Workshop in the DR in November — equipping 12 researchers from eight Islands with the skills they need to interpret their landbird survey data and turn field observations into conservation action.

And to keep the momentum going: 

We awarded five Monitoring Program Grants supporting new long-term landbird monitoring initiatives in Grenada, The Bahamas, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines — building essential data for conservation decision-making. 

Rare birds and remarkable moments

At Woodbourne Shorebird Refuge in Barbados, a vital sanctuary for migratory and resident shorebirds and waterbirds, site manager Ian Alkins (AKA Bolt), spotted an unusual looking heron he was not familiar with. This turned out to be a Western Reef Heron! This bird is normally found in coastal areas of West Africa, but does make rare ‘visits’ to other parts of the world, including the Caribbean  The Reserve, which was a field trip location for a Caribbean Bird Trail Guide Training Workshop in 2024, had suffered a complete loss of funding from USAID. BirdsCaribbean were able to support Woodbourne last year thanks to funding support from Actions@EBMF. We continue to look for sustainable support for this important and special site into the future.  

Soon after Hurricane Melissa (in November), bird guide Ricardo Miller came across a large number of Yellow-billed Cuckoos in St. Thomas, eastern Jamaica. A most unusual sight, in a part of the island not seriously affected by the storm! He counted over 30 individuals. 

Thank You for an Incredible Year

While 2025 brought immense challenges, it will be remembered for the way we came together to face them. We owe our successes to the unwavering support of our friends, members, partners, and donors. We are deeply grateful for your trust, generosity, and continued commitment to Caribbean birds.

Stay connected in 2026 — sign up for our monthly newsletter to receive the latest news from the field, program updates, and opportunities to get involved. Here’s to a hopeful and impactful year ahead!

The Endemic and Threatened Species Working Group (ETSWG) newsletter is now available, and it’s brimming with exciting updates and achievements! From celebrating conservation leaders to spotlighting critical challenges, this issue highlights the latest research, conservation, and education activities taking place across the region—available in English, Spanish, and French!

Your latest dose of Caribbean endemic bird news just got a lot more exciting—seriously! Alongside fascinating taxonomic changes that increase the number of Caribbean endemic species, this issue includes updates from the Caribbean Landbird Monitoring Programme, highlights from the Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival, and conservation news from across the islands. From honoring local champions to calling for urgent action for our most threatened endemics, this newsletter showcases the dedication of our community to the iconic birds that rely on our care. 

Scroll to the bottom of the page to view the newsletter in Spanish and French.

Across the Caribbean, conservationists are working tirelessly to better understand and protect the birds we love. In The Bahamas, students are creating artwork for a Young Artist’s calendar, while the One Eleuthera Foundation has completed a nature trail that brings the island’s endemics into closer focus for the public. 

Nearby, in the Dominican Republic, plans are underway to remove invasive species from Isla Alto Velo, helping to restore habitat for the Black-capped Petrel. Meanwhile, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada, international and local researchers are finalizing Conservation Action Plans for the Whistling Warbler, St. Vincent Amazon, and Grenada Dove.

This issue also features recent conference presentations by local conservationists, both online and in person. If you’re craving even more endemic bird research, we’ve got you covered—including a list of recent publications on Caribbean endemic and threatened species. Most are free to access; when they’re not, we encourage you to reach out  directly to the authors, who are usually happy to share their work. Lastly, be sure to check the ‘Save the Date’ section for exciting upcoming conferences in 2026. 

If you’re interested in getting involved with the Endemic and Threatened Species Working Group (we hope you are!) please sign up to our listserv to stay connected.

These highlights represent just a fraction of the vital work underway to conserve Caribbean endemics—and we want more! If you have projects or updates to share, please contact us. We’ve already begun gathering content for the 2026 edition. 

– ETSWG co-chairs, Ellie and Howard

Past issues:

A fun look at secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized attachment styles — explained through Caribbean birds.

Are you a ‘green flag’ parakeet or a ‘broken-winged’ performer? We’ve enlisted the help of our feathered friends to decode the complicated human heart. After all, understanding the ‘why’ behind our behaviors is the first step toward breaking patterns that can hurt our relationships.

In the wild, survival depends on how an animal navigates its environment. Some birds thrive through constant connection, while others rely on stillness, deception, or independence to survive the day. Human relationships follow a remarkably similar blueprint—one defined by Attachment Theory, a psychological framework that examines how we connect with others. 

With the rise of therapy-speak, you’ve probably heard about attachment styles. In case you haven’t, they are internal maps for how we seek — or avoid — intimacy. By drawing parallels between survival strategies in the bird world and human intimacy, we’ll break down the four attachment styles: Secure, Anxious, Avoidant, and Disorganized, using the unique behaviors of birds that mirror them.

Just a quick heads-up: this bird-to-human comparison is our own creative interpretation. 

Secure—The Cuban Parakeet (looking for a lifelong flock mate) 

People with a Secure Attachment style are the ultimate green (winged) flags of the human world. They should consider themselves the Cuban Parakeets of dating — they’re exceptionally social, quite the chatter-boxes (think their loud crick-crick-crick in flight), and in it for the long haul.

These parakeets, like many other Caribbean parrots, form lifelong pair bonds that keep their large flocks cohesive. Together they travel in search of seeds, juicy fruits, and sometimes flowers, leaves, or nectar. But they also understand that independence is healthy, opting not to clip their partner’s wings or panic when the other flies off to another tree while foraging. At sunset, each member of the flock returns to the same hollow tree trunk (a cavity) to roost together.

This instinct to stick together is rooted in survival. As prey animals living in flocks — parrots can’t forage and watch for predators simultaneously. Usually, a few members act as guard while the others forage, and then they trade places.

Similarly, secure partners invest heavily in the health of the relationship. Just like a pair of Cuban Parakeets grooming each other in the canopy (known as allopreening), secure individuals prioritize fulfilling their partners’ emotional needs. This simple act of fixing feathers may seem small, but it’s rich in communication. It’s a non-verbal dialogue that says, “You’re a mess, let me fix that,” or “I’ve got your back while you rest.” It’s the avian equivalent of checking in after a hard day or offering a reassuring hug.

They build their relationships on a foundation of trust and clear communication. Thankfully, human communication usually involves fewer high-pitched squawks — but the principle is the same: staying connected is the best way to get through any challenge.

Anxious—The Yellow-crowned Night Heron (the master of observation)

If the Secure types are the Cuban Parakeets, those with an Anxious (or Preoccupied) Attachment style are the Yellow-crowned Night Herons of the dating scene. These individuals crave deep intimacy but often live in a state of “high alert,” scanning the horizon for any sign that their partner might be looking to fly the coop.

Just as a Night Heron stands perfectly still at the water’s edge, eyes locked on the slightest ripple, the Anxious person focuses on relationship cues. Why did they take longer than usual to text back? Why did they seem distracted? 

The Yellow-crowned Night Heron is known for its distinctive hunched statuesque posture that says, “I’m paying very close attention.” By staying low and motionless, the heron can accurately judge the depth and position of crabs or crayfish without its prey realizing it’s being watched. To a crab looking up, the hunched heron looks more like a stump than a hungry predator. 

For the Anxious type, this vigilance stems from a constant need for reassurance. Because the fear of abandonment feels like a predator lurking in the reeds, they might become “demanding” of their partner’s time or attention. It’s not that they want to be difficult; they’re simply trying to secure the bond — much like a heron trying to secure its catch.

Learn more about the Yellow-crowned Night Heron here: 

Avoidant—The Shiny Cowbird (the nomad nester)

Representing the Avoidant Attachment style is the Shiny Cowbird. The male with its sleek, velvety-purple feathers looks polished and self-reliant while the females are an understated grayish-brown, closely resembling the Brown-headed Cowbird. The hallmark of the Shiny Cowbird is its brood parasitism. Rather than committing to the labor of building a nest, incubating eggs, and raising offspring, they drop their eggs in the nests of others and make a swift exit. 

In this case, the brood parasite has essentially hacked the breeding system. She bypasses the grueling labor of parenthood entirely while ensuring her lineage continues. To pull this off, she acts as a surveillance expert, scouting host birds that are about to lay eggs. Once she identifies a target, she waits for the host to leave before sneaking in to deposit her own. If the host bird has already laid eggs, the cowbird sometimes punctures them before laying her own. If the parasitic egg isn’t rejected by the host parents, it hatches 2-4 days earlier than the host eggs,giving the Shiny Cowbird chick a head start in being fed and cared for. 

Depending on the species, host parents deal with a cowbird’s intrusion in different ways. Many accept the foreign egg (including our endemic Jamaican, Puerto Rican, and Saint Lucia Orioles), leading to their own low reproductive success. Others take a more active stand: puncturing or tossing the egg out, or burying the entire clutch under a fresh layer of nesting material to start over. Others evict the cowbird chick after it hatches.  

In the world of dating, Avoidant types often follow a similar script. They may enjoy the initial connection, but when things get “heavy” — like their partner requiring an answer to “What are we?” — they suppress their emotions and distance themselves, even appearing aloof or detached. This isn’t because they don’t have feelings, but because they’ve learned that vulnerability is risky business. After all, you can’t get kicked out of a nest if you never really moved in.

Disorganized—The Killdeer (the fearful performer)

If the cowbird flies away and the heron watches from a distance; the Killdeer screams: “If you get too close, I will break!” 

Representing the Disorganized (Fearful-Avoidant) Attachment Style, these individuals are defined by a painful paradox: they want the warmth of the “nest,” yet they view the nest as a place of potential danger.

The Killdeer would probably win Best Actor if there were Oscars in the bird world. When a predator approaches its ground-level nest — a simple scrape lined with small pebbles — the bird performs an elaborate broken-wing display. It fans its tail, drags a wing as if it’s been shattered, and lets out a frantic cry. It’s a high-stakes gamble: the Killdeer deliberately makes itself look vulnerable and “broken” to lure the predator away from its eggs or chicks. Once the intruder is far enough from the nest, the Killdeer miraculously “heals” and flies away, leaving the predator confused and with a grumbling stomach.

Note: While this display is fascinating, approaching to “see the show” forces the bird to waste vital energy and leaves its eggs dangerously exposed to the sun and real predators. Please keep your distance from all nesting shorebirds. More tips on sharing the shore with shorebirds can be found here. 

In relationships, the Disorganized style mirrors this inconsistent performance. When a partner gets close, a Fearful-Avoidant person may “act out” to distract from the real issue. It’s a defensive performance designed to lead the perceived threat (their partner’s intimacy) away from their heart. Just like the Killdeer, their system tells them that showing “brokenness” is the only way to keep their most precious cargo safe.

Nature doesn’t judge the Killdeer for its theatrics or the Heron for its vigilance; these are simply survival strategies shaped by the environment. Our attachment styles are similar — they help us to navigate relationships. 

Whether you find yourself performing a distraction display like the Killdeer or checking in with the steady crick-crick-crick of the Cuban Parakeet, awareness of your style is powerful! Once you recognize your patterns, you can begin working (if needed) toward shifting the ones that no longer serve you. With flexibility, thoughtfulness, and a willingness to give yourself grace as you grow, you can adjust your own behaviors to better cultivate the healthy dynamics you desire. 

In the Caribbean we are blessed with more than 30 species of ducks, with resident species joined by migratory visitors in fall and winter — with the occasional (exciting) ‘rare’ bird showing up too! Male ducks in breeding plumage typically sport colorful features that make identification easier, even when species look similar. 

But, what about females, immatures, and males out of breeding plumage (known as ‘eclipse males’)? Fear not — we’re here to help you identify the tricky ‘brown ones’. Read on for some great tips! 

In this guide we’ll focus on females of five common migratory ducks that pass through or winter in the Caribbean, with ‘bonus’ tips on four additional, less common species. We will also touch on some of the rarer species that visit the Caribbean which can be easily mixed up with the common ones.

Before you dive in — take a look and see how many of our five species you can already identify! 

Blue-winged Teal

These are one of the most common duck visitors to the Caribbean! Even females are often unmistakable in flight thanks to the powder-blue on the wing. This is shared by Northern Shoveler (see next), but the blue for the shoveler is less extensive and they also have bold white on the wing — which the teals lack. 

When swimming look for the dark eye-line and black bill. Males in eclipse plumage may also show a faint ‘ghost’ of the white ‘crescent’ mark behind the bill, seen when they are in breeding plumage.

While similar, Green-winged Teal females (see below) are a warmer brown, and have a cream stripe at the rear. You may also spot some of the green on the wing, even when they are swimming. 

Northern Shoveler 

This duck might be known as the ‘Hollywood Mallard’ for the male’s flashy looks — but females are more demure. Like many female ducks, they show heavily marked brown-buff plumage — but their large spoon-shaped bill is a dead giveaway.

You can also look for a wash of powder blue on the leading edge of the wing in flight, combined with a white stripe.  

American Wigeon

Breeding male American Wigeons bring glamour to the wetland! With a green eye patch and white crown, males are hard to mis-identify. Females and non-breeding males are more subtle, but you can recognize these short-billed ducks from the rusty, warm brown tones of their body plumage. 

Females look plainer and less mottled than other female brown ducks, with a gray-brown head with that dark smudge around the  eyes. Look also for the pale bill with a black tip. 

The similar Eurasian Wigeon is a rare visitor to the Caribbean and can cause confusion. Breeding male American and Eurasian Wigeons look quite different. The American Wigeon shows a striking green stripe behind the eye, has a gray brown head and white cap. In contrast Eurasian males have a chestnut head and buff cap. However, females can be hard to separate. Look for the grayer, ‘colder’ colored head in the American Wigeon — and in flight, American Wigeons show white under the wing, whilst Eurasians are silvery gray.

A Quick Feeding Tip!

The way ducks feed can also help narrow down your ID. The ducks above are all ‘dabbling ducks’ — you’re likely to see them in shallow water, tipping head down, tail up in the air. 

The next two species are ‘diving ducks’ — they dive head-first underwater when feeding, completely disappearing beneath the surface. 

Ring-necked Duck

Despite the name, the male’s chestnut collar across its black neck is hard to see in the field—so don’t rely on it!  Females have a brown-gray body, and pale white feathers around the base of the bill. Their heads feature a brown cap that contrasts with its gray face and white eye-ring. 

Their bills are also helpful: look for the distinctive white a white band across it near the tip. Males in eclipse plumage display a brown plumage with brown-black head, breast, and back. They can be distinguished from females by their bright yellow eyes and lack of an eye-ring.

Lesser Scaup

Female Less Scaups are a warm chocolate brown. Unlike the Ring-necked Duck, their head and face is almost entirely brown, with a white patch that varies in size just behind the bill, and yellow eyes. 

Males have black heads with purple/green iridescence, a black neck and breast, white sides, and greyish marbled looking backs. Both sexes have a white wing-stripe, which runs half-way along the trailing edge of the upper wing, and is visible in flight.   

This species is very similar to the far rarer Greater Scaup. The best way to tell them apart is by head shape — the Lesser Scaup’s head is narrower and egg-shaped with a peak near the back of the head, while the head of the Greater Scaup is more rounded. In addition, the sides and back of the Greater Scaup are lighter.

And the rest… 

We’ve covered the five most common species of migratory ducks found in the Caribbean — let’s now consider a few less common but noteworthy species.

The Mallard is what most people think of when they picture a duck. Males have a distinctive glossy green head, yellow bill, and bright orange legs and feet. Females and young males are mottled brown, with a dark bill. They may resemble female shovelers but lack the massive bill! In flight, look for the blue wing-patch bordered with white.

Gadwalls are subtly patterned and can look dull at first glance. Females can resemble female mallards, but have a thinner, darker bill and no blue-wing patch. In flight, look for small, white wing patches that are a distinctive feature of this species .

Male Green-winged Teals have a green stripe behind the eye, similar to American Wigeons, but lack the white ‘forehead’ and are MUCH smaller. Females can look like female blue-winged Teals, but again are smaller (see above). Remember, you can look for the cream stripe at the rear of Green-winged Teals — and in flight, as the name suggests, they have green wing patches.

Finally, let’s consider the Northern Pintail. This duck has a distinctive elegant silhouette that sets both the males and females apart. They are long necked and long tailed. Even though the female is brown, her silhouette distinguishes her from other ‘brown ducks’. Whilst she does not have the VERY long tail of the male, she still appears longer in the tail than other ducks. She also has a chestnut-coloured face that is less patterned and plainer looking than other female ducks. 

We hope this guide has set you on the path of duck ID enlightenment! There are of course several other species of duck that are found in the region, either as year-round residents or rarer visitors. We highly recommend using your field guide, taking photos when possible, and exploring resources like Birds of the World, which is free to access in the Caribbean thanks to our partnership with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. For trickier, rarer migrants, be sure to check out the All About Birds pages from Cornell, where you can compare similar species side-by-side.

Good luck and happy duck spotting! 

You can view all the graphics, plus a ‘bonus’ quiz in this pdf booklet:

We’ve made an ID card that you can download, print as a two-sided 8.5×11 page, and laminate for easy reference in the field. 

Just click the image to download the pdf file. 

For more waterbird ID tips and tricks, check out:

You’ve Spotted a White Egret or Heron! But Which of the 7 is it?

Caribbean Waterbird Census

[OPRIMA AQUÍ PARA ESPAÑOL]

BirdsCaribbean’s Caribbean Motus Collaboration program is excited to invite applications for a 5-day Motus Tagging Training Workshop. In partnership with the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources, this hands-on training will be held at the Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Salinas, Puerto Rico, from 2-6 March 2026.

What is Motus?

The Motus Wildlife Tracking System is a global collaborative research network that uses automated radio telemetry to track the movements of small animals. The network is centrally managed by Birds Canada (motus.org), and consists of thousands of receiving stations worldwide that detect tagged animals as they move through the landscape. 

When the Caribbean Motus Collaboration (CMC) was launched in 2021, there were no permanent Motus receiving stations in the insular Caribbean. Thanks to the efforts of many regional and international partners, the Caribbean Motus network is growing rapidly—there are now 24 active stations in the region, with plans for many more! 

Why do we need to tag birds in the Caribbean?

As this critical geographical gap in the Motus network is filled, migratory birds tagged outside the Caribbean are increasingly being detected at Caribbean stations and providing valuable new insights into migration routes, timing, and stopover use across the region. For example, this Red Knot—a species of conservation concern experiencing significant population declines—was one of many tagged in Argentina and later detected at a Caribbean station during its long journey to breeding grounds in the Arctic.

Tagging birds within the Caribbean allows us to better understand populations that depend on the islands for all or part of their life cycles. For migratory species, this includes information on movement patterns, stopover duration, departure decisions, and carry-over effects—how conditions in one part of the bird’s life cycle (such as the quality of non-breeding habitat) influence its health, survival, and breeding success later on. Motus tracking is being used to study overwintering populations of species of conservation concern such as Bicknell’s Thrush in the Dominican Republic. Motus can also fill important knowledge gaps for resident species, including movements within and between islands, dispersal distances, and habitat use. 

New Motus stations and tagging projects are continually being developed across the region, and we are only beginning to tap into the full potential of this powerful research network. Now is the time to build regional capacity to use Motus data and contribute meaningfully to collaborative tracking efforts.

About the workshop

The Motus Tagging Training Workshop workshop is designed for Caribbean wildlife professionals who are interested in actively participating in Motus research on birds in the insular Caribbean, and have the capacity to apply this training through ongoing or planned projects. 

This bilingual (English/Spanish) workshop will focus on tagging landbirds, with an emphasis on passerines. We hope to provide training opportunities for other bird groups in the future. 

The workshop will provide hands-on training in: 

• Safely attaching Motus tags using approved harness methods
• Activating tags in the field
• Deploying tags within projects on the Motus network
• Data management and best practices for collaborative tracking studies.

Because tag attachment requires careful handling and manipulation of birds in the hand, prior experience with bird handling and banding (particularly passerines) is required.

Who should apply?

This workshop is best suited for wildlife professionals, researchers, and conservation practitioners who are:

• Based in the insular Caribbean (especially in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands)
• Actively involved in existing or planned Motus projects, or have a clear pathway to becoming involved
• Experienced with bird banding and handling, especially with passerines (priority will be given to applicants who have handled 300+ birds)
• Committed to applying this training as well as networking with the Caribbean conservation community to support long-term research and conservation in the region

Funding and logistics

We anticipate selecting approximately 15 participants. BirdsCaribbean has funding available for a limited number of need and merit-based scholarships to help cover travel and participation costs. Applicants who are able to cover part or all of their costs help us to include additional participants, but financial ability will not determine selection. 

Participants should plan to arrive in Puerto Rico by 1 March and depart on 7 March, 2026. 

How to apply

If you are interested in participating, please complete the application form by 20 January 2026. 

English Version: https://bit.ly/CMC-2026-Application-ENG

Versión en español: https://bit.ly/CMC-2026-Solicitud-ESP

If you have any questions, please send an email to:

Maya Wilson, Landbird Program Manager

Maya.Wilson@BirdsCaribbean.org

Holly Garrod, Caribbean Bird Banding Coordinator

Holly.Garrod@BirdsCaribbean.org

Oportunidad de capacitación: Taller de etiquetado Motus

El programa Caribbean Motus Collaboration de BirdsCaribbean se complace en invitar a presentar solicitudes para un taller de formación sobre el marcado con Motus de 5 días de duración. En colaboración con el Departamento de Recursos Naturales y Ambientales de Puerto Rico, esta formación práctica se llevará a cabo en la Reserva Nacional de Investigación Estuarina de la Bahía de Jobos, en Salinas, Puerto Rico, del 2 al 6 de marzo de 2026.

¿Qué es Motus?

El sistema de seguimiento de fauna silvestre Motus es una red de investigación colaborativa global que utiliza telemetría automática por radio para rastrear los movimientos de pequeños animales. La red está gestionada de forma centralizada por Birds Canada (motus.org) y consta de miles de estaciones receptoras en todo el mundo que detectan a los animales marcados a medida que se desplazan por el terreno.

Cuando se puso en marcha la Colaboración Motus del Caribe (CMC) en 2021, no había estaciones receptoras Motus permanentes en el Caribe insular. Gracias a los esfuerzos de muchos socios regionales e internacionales, la red Motus del Caribe está creciendo rápidamente: ahora hay 24 estaciones activas en la región, ¡y hay planes para muchas más!

¿Por qué necesitamos marcar aves en el Caribe?

A medida que se va llenando este vacío geográfico crítico en la red Motus, las aves migratorias marcadas fuera del Caribe se detectan cada vez más en las estaciones caribeñas y proporcionan nuevos y valiosos conocimientos sobre las rutas migratorias, los tiempos y el uso de las escalas en toda la región. Por ejemplo, este Calidrus canutus, una especie de interés para la conservación que está experimentando un importante descenso de su población, fue uno de los muchos marcados en Argentina y posteriormente detectados en una estación caribeña durante su largo viaje hacia las zonas de reproducción en el Ártico.

El marcado de aves en el Caribe nos permite comprender mejor las poblaciones que dependen de las islas durante todo o parte de su ciclo de vida. En el caso de las especies migratorias, esto incluye información sobre los patrones de movimiento, la duración de las escalas, las decisiones de partida y los efectos de arrastre, es decir, cómo las condiciones en una parte del ciclo de vida de las aves (como la calidad del hábitat no reproductivo) influyen en su salud, supervivencia y éxito reproductivo posterior. El seguimiento con Motus se está utilizando para estudiar las poblaciones invernantes de especies de interés para la conservación, como Catharus bicknelli en la República Dominicana. Motus también puede llenar importantes lagunas de conocimiento sobre las especies residentes, incluidos los movimientos dentro y entre las islas, las distancias de dispersión y el uso del hábitat.

Se están desarrollando continuamente nuevas estaciones Motus y proyectos de marcado en toda la región, y apenas estamos empezando a aprovechar todo el potencial de esta potente red de investigación. Ahora es el momento de desarrollar la capacidad regional para utilizar los datos de Motus y contribuir de manera significativa a los esfuerzos de seguimiento colaborativo.

Acerca del taller

El taller de formación sobre el marcado con Motus está diseñado para profesionales de la fauna silvestre del Caribe que estén interesados en participar activamente en la investigación de Motus sobre las aves en el Caribe insular y que tengan la capacidad de aplicar esta formación a través de proyectos en curso o previstos.

Este taller bilingüe (inglés/español) se centrará en el marcado de aves terrestres, con especial énfasis en los paseriformes. Esperamos poder ofrecer oportunidades de formación para otros grupos de aves en el futuro.

El taller proporcionará formación práctica sobre:

• La colocación segura de etiquetas Motus utilizando métodos de arnés aprobados.
• La activación de etiquetas sobre el terreno.
• El despliegue de etiquetas en proyectos de la red Motus.
• La gestión de datos y las mejores prácticas para estudios de seguimiento colaborativos.

Dado que la colocación de las etiquetas requiere un manejo cuidadoso de las aves en la mano, se requiere experiencia previa en el manejo y anillamiento de aves (en particular paseriformes).

¿Quiénes pueden inscribirse?

Este taller es ideal para profesionales de la vida silvestre, investigadores y conservacionistas que:

• Residan en el Caribe insular (especialmente en Puerto Rico y las Islas Vírgenes de los Estados Unidos).
• Participen activamente en proyectos Motus existentes o previstos, o tengan una vía clara para participar.
• Tengan experiencia en el anillamiento y manejo de aves, especialmente de paseriformes (se dará prioridad a los solicitantes que hayan manejado más de 300 aves).
• Estén comprometidos con la aplicación de esta formación, así como con la creación de redes con la comunidad conservacionista del Caribe para apoyar la investigación y la conservación a largo plazo en la región.

Financiación y logística

Prevemos seleccionar aproximadamente 15 participantes. BirdsCaribbean dispone de fondos para un número limitado de becas basadas en las necesidades y los méritos, con el fin de ayudar a cubrir los gastos de viaje y participación. Los solicitantes que puedan cubrir parte o la totalidad de sus gastos nos ayudan a incluir a más participantes, pero la capacidad financiera no determinará la selección.

Los participantes deben planificar su llegada a Puerto Rico antes del 1 de marzo y su salida el 7 de marzo de 2026.

Solicitudes

Si estás interesado en participar en este taller, llena este formulario antes del 20 de enero de 2026.

Versión en inglés: https://bit.ly/CMC-2026-Application-ENG

Versión en español:  https://bit.ly/CMC-2026-Solicitud-ESP

Si tienes alguna pregunta, envía un correo electrónico a:

Maya Wilson, Gerente del Programa de Aves Terrestres

Maya.Wilson@BirdsCaribbean.org 

Holly Garrod, Coordinadora de la Red de Anillamiento de Aves del Caribe

Holly.Garrod@BirdsCaribbean.org