Birding
Belize is a hotspot for birding, as it is right in the middle of the migratory route of most Northern and Southern American species. Its diverse habitats are home to hundreds of Tropical and Neotropical species. Our guides are avid bird watchers and love to show our guests all the birds that call Copal Tree home. They have been mentored by some of the region’s leading experts, including noted ornithologist and author of the “Birds of Belize” Dr. Lee Jones, and demonstrate a remarkable depth of avian knowledge. Interested in a Birding Vacation? Check out Birding Packages at Copal Tree Lodge.
“We spent 4 nights earlier this month at the Copal Tree Lodge. The food was top notch and the venue was outstanding. However, our 3 days birding with Emmanuel Chan exceeded all of the above. My wife (an avid birder) identified 126 different species during our visit, under “Chan’s” expert guidance. We are already looking forward to our return visit to discover more birds withe one of the premier birders in Southern Belize!” -Tim, Connecticut
Intro to Birding
If you have never been bird watching, you will get great pleasure on a morning walk around the grounds with one of our certified birding guides. An outing with a knowledgeable guide generates new awareness for the rich diversity of life in the jungle. Learn how to focus your binoculars on native and migratory species and listen for the commonly seen birds around the property. Copal Tree Lodge offers one of the most reliable places to see the rare Ornate Hawk-eagle, which nests in the giant Ceiba trees at the lodge and patrols its territory daily. Chances are you’ll even spot a toucan!
Schedule: 6:30-7:30am, Tuesday and Friday. Alternative days on request
Full Day of Scarlet Macaw Birding Adventure
If you have a passion for birds, visiting the Scarlet Macaw preserve at Red Bank Village is a must. Located in the Stann Creek District, Red Bank is the largest gathering of scarlet macaws in Central America. These gorgeous giants fly down from their mountain nesting sites in the Chiquibul National Park every year on their way to warmer locations. From December to March, these endangered but protected beauties flock to the village to feed in the lower elevation, allowing you to admire their vibrant red, yellow, and blue colors.
Red Bank is about 70 miles north along the Southern Hwy or an hour and a half drive from Copal Tree Lodge. Traveling through various ecosystems along the way means frequent stops to add several species to your birding checklist!
Half Day of Bird Watching
A half day birding is an exploration of the best of what Copal Tree Lodge has to offer. Meandering around our grounds, in the jungle and along the river’s edge, you will have the opportunity to see some of the broadest ranges of species the region has to offer. From soaring raptors to kingfishers, trogons, euphonias, hummingbirds, herons, manakins, and parrots, count on a big day!
Schedule: Based on request.
Full Day of Bird Watching
Mentored by some of the region’s leading experts, including noted ornithologist and author of The Birds of Belize, Dr. Lee Jones, our guides know where to find both common and rare species. Transported in a safari style Land Cruiser or on the river in one of our comfortable boats, you will see the broadest range of bird species Belize has to offer. Minimum of 2 persons needed.