ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA INVITE BIRDWATCHERS AND NATURE LOVERS

Antigua and Barbuda: March 2023:  Nirvana for nature lovers, Antigua and Barbuda is home to 120 species of birds, many of which are endemic to the Caribbean.  Barbuda, for example,  hosts the largest frigatebird colony in the western hemisphere, making it a must-see destination for bird watchers.  Whether you’re a seasoned avian enthusiast or just getting the hang of your binoculars,  find out why Antigua & Barbuda really are for the birds.  www.visitantiguabarbuda.com/

Frigatebirds, also known as a “Man-O-War”, are graceful birds that soar on and offshore in Antigua and Barbuda. The male is glossy black and will blow up his scarlet throat to attract females. The females are larger with their sides and breasts white. In the Caribbean, they are known as “Weather Birds,” as they will circulate inland when a storm appears to be nearing.   Take a short boat trip to Barbuda to see the largest frigatebird colony in the western hemisphere in Codrington Lagoon where nature lovers will see  100,000 birds.

Antigua has an indented coastline with numerous islands, creeks, inlets, and wetlands.  McKinnon’s Salt Pond, North of St. John’s, is a top-notch spot for spotting waterbirds, including West Indian Whistling Ducks and White-cheeked Pintails. It’s also not uncommon to spy Least Terns, Wilson’s Plover and other shorebirds in McKinnon’s Salt Pond..   When spending time on the beach, keep your eyes out for the Brown Pelican. These divers can be seen skimming the water in search of t fish they scoop up with their large, net-like bills.

Antigua is dotted with forests that provide desirable habitats for tree-dwelling birds. Wallings Reserve is home to Ruddy Quail-Doves, Scaly-naped Pigeons, and Broad-winged Hawks. Just as human hikers flock to Wallings to navigate its many trails, the reserve draws migratory species from other islands in the Caribbean, including the Barbuda Warbler.