5 Birds to Look Out For When Birding in Belize

Imagine the thrill of spotting a flash of brilliant blue or the majestic silhouette of a raptor against a verdant jungle backdrop. In Belize, these types of sights aren’t hard to come by. With its lush rainforests, expansive wetlands, impressive coasts, and over 580 bird species, Belize is a dream destination for bird enthusiasts. Belize’s rich ecosystems provide the perfect habitat for an array of stunning and rare birds, making it an essential stop on any bird-watching itinerary. Here are five must-see birds when birding in Belize.

1. The Lovely Cotinga

The Lovely Cotinga. Photo © Carlos Echeverría via Birds of the World

At the top of the list for many birders visiting Belize, the Lovely Cotinga lives up to its name with its striking appearance. The males are a dazzling turquoise and violet. This makes them one of the most visually captivating birds in Belize. Females, while more subdued in coloration with their olive-brown feathers, are still a delight to spot.

These birds are known for their elusive nature and their preference for the mid-canopy layer of forests, making sightings both challenging and rewarding. When you do catch a glimpse of a Lovely Cotinga, it’s a moment you’ll remember forever. 

2. The Orange-Breasted Falcon

Orange-breasted Falcon. Image courtesy Roni Martinez

The Orange-breasted Falcon is a rare and majestic bird of prey, known for its striking orange breast and powerful build. These falcons are skilled hunters, often seen soaring high above the forest canopy or perched on cliff edges. Their sharp talons and keen eyesight make them formidable predators, and their hunting dives are a spectacular display of agility and power. Spotting an Orange-breasted Falcon is a highlight for any birder visiting Belize. Bring your binoculars to the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve to try and spot one from a distance.

Where to Stay: Found inside the Mountain Pine Ridge area, Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge offers a variety of adventure tours for guests. This includes birding, during which you might just spot an orange-breasted Falcon. 

3. The Stygian Owl

The Stygian Owl. Photo © Claudia Brasileiro via ebird.

The Stygian Owl is a mystical and elusive bird with piercing yellow eyes and striking ear tufts. Named after the River Styx in Greek mythology, this owl has an enigmatic presence, often spotted at dusk or during the night. Its sinister appearance and haunting calls add an air of mystery to the evening, especially if you’re out on a night hike!

Similar: Belize: A Small Country with Big Birding

Finding a Stygian Owl requires patience and a bit of luck, but the experience of encountering this nocturnal bird is truly magical. Set forth for a hide-and-seek and maybe spot them roosting high in the trees of the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary or Mountain Pine Ridge.

4. The Ornate Hawk-Eagle

The Ornate Hawk Eagle. Photo © Fernando Burgalin Sequeria via ebird

The Ornate Hawk-Eagle is a stunning bird of prey with a fierce demeanor and intricate plumage. With a striking black and white pattern on their chest and a crest atop their head, these eagles are both beautiful and formidable! Known for their hiccuping chirps, you can spot them soaring overhead during mid-mornings. These eagles are often seen gliding high above the forest or perched majestically on a tree branch. Set forth to the west and visit Belize’s Cayo district in search of these astounding birds.

Where to stay: Found surrounded by the jungles of Cayo, Sweet Songs Jungle Lodge – a Muy’Ono Resort – is the perfect basecamp for birding adventures. 

5. The Keel-Billed Motmot

Photo By Francesco Veronesi from Italy – Keel-billed Motmot

You’ll find this little guy in the jungles of the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, near Caracol. The Keel-billed Motmot is a vibrant, colorful bird with a distinctive racket-shaped tail. Their green plumage, bright blue ‘eyebrows’, and keel-shaped bill make them one of the most eye-catching birds in Belize. Often seen perched motionless, they are relatively easy to photograph. The Keel-billed Motmot’s unique tail and stunning colors make them a favorite among birders and photographers alike. If you spot one, make sure to take lots of pictures!

While we could go on and on about Belize’s breathtaking birds, we’d be wasting the time it takes to spot them! So, instead of waiting around, grab your binoculars and see how many of Belize’s 580 bird species you can find! Make it a game every time you come to Belize, and you’ll never get tired of seeing new or old feathered friends. Birding in Belize might become your new favorite activity.

Featured: A rare orange-breasted falcon spotted on a hike. Photo © Caribbean Culture + Lifestyle