Go Birding in Belize for Centroamérica Big Day 2026
If you are in Belize on March 14, get ready to explore the outdoors to look out for feathered friends for the Centroamérica Big Day 2026! Central America is one of the premier regions in the world for its diverse bird species. There are an outstanding 1,200 inhabited and transiting bird species in the region, with Belize boasting as the home to almost 600 bird species. The altitudes, climate, and ecosystems are ideal for birds to find food and shelter. You can see them in the country’s wetlands, broadleaf forests, coastline, and islands.
What is Centroamérica Big Day?
The Centroamérica Big Day is a regional event by the Central American Tourism Agency (CATA) for anyone, regardless of experience, to observe and record bird species during the day’s exploration. The simultaneous day of birding across the region promotes nature tourism, sustainable tourism development, and citizen science. It highlights Central America as a top-tier destination for birding activities. In Belize, birdwatching activities are coordinated in several protected areas, including the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park, and the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. There will be activities led by specialized guides and local partners, like the Belize Audubon Society.
Experience Birding in Belize
Even if you’re not at the three locations, wherever you are, you can still be a part of the birding festivities for the Centroamérica Big Day! Whether you’re relaxing at Caye Caulker, in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve at Caracol, or in the southernmost town of Punta Gorda, you can record your observations on monitoring platforms, such as eBird and iNaturalist. Share your sightings on eBird using the official “Cata Centroamérica” username. This way, every species recorded will contribute to highlighting the richness and diversity of birds in Central America.
Recognize the chirps and colors of the bird biodiversity on Big Day and every day after while exploring Belize. Stare in awe as they perch on a tree branch or soar through the blue skies for a fun-filled day of birding!
