by Almost every outdoor location is a possible place for bird-watching, but it’s no surprise that some places are much more suited to bird-watching than others. These places are where you can catch an in-person glimpse of species of birds and behaviors most are only privileged to see on television or in the pages of wildlife magazines.
Manu National Park, Peru
On the bucket list of most ornithologists and hobbyists alike is the Manu National Park, located in the Southern American nation of Peru. The park is home to over 1,000 species of birds – which is roughly 10 % of all bird species in the world, significantly more than you can find in the United States and Canada combined. Under close protection by the Peruvian government, most of it is out of bounds to visitors but birdwatchers can still make do by watching from the public roads and trails along the Amazon. Among the many species you can see here are rusty fronted canasteros, yellow-winged blackbirds, quetzals, and, honeycreepers. If you visit during the summertime, you might also catch some migrating birds making use of the beach Peruvian beaches.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
While the focus of most South African wildlife tends to center around larger animals like lions, rhinos, and zebras, those with an eye for bird watching know that South Africa’s avian wildlife can be equally impressive. One of the best places in South Africa to find birds is the Kruger National Park. Covering over 20,000 square kilometers, a great number of different species are on display. The “secretarybird” eagle and the jacana that floats easily on treetops are sights you don’t want to miss. Do not forget to see the famous Luvuvhu River, there you’re likely to run into other birdwatchers because it is the best location in the Park to find several species of birds in one location.
Cape May, USA
Already a prime vacation destination, Cape May also boasts being one of the best bird-watching spots in the country. The reason for this is due to the unique natural landscape. Cape May acts as a bird funnel, helping out birds who migrate in search of a warmer climate. One thing that Cape May is famous for are its songbirds. On a good day you may also find various species of warblers hawks and shorebirds. The best seats in the house are usually located at famous Higbee Beach – try not to miss it.
The Everglades, USA
The Everglades is also a place birders won’t want to miss – it is often said that birds here appear in such high numbers that they blot the sun. One thing you’ll want to look into first is the terrain of the Everglades. It is comprised of marl prairies, swamps, cypress, hardwood hammocks, Rocklands, and marshes, and can present some difficulties, but with over 360 species available, birders from around the world agree that it’s worth getting your boots muddy. The Everglades is more of a safe refuge for birds facing the disruptive threat of climate change. While you are there, be sure to look out for the Purple Gallinule, as well as the US’s national bird: the bald eagle, the turtle vulture, and the sharp-shinned hawk – the smallest bird of prey in the United States of America.
Varirata National Park, Papua New Guinea
This bird paradise in Varirata National Park extends over 100 hectares is home to countless species of birds. It was largely untouched and unmapped until the 1930s when explorers discovered its abundance of wildlife. The lush landscape is home to the Raggiana bird-of-paradise, hornbills, kingfishers, cassowaries, and more. One thing to really look out for is the colorful courting performances on display. The best places for bird watchers in this park are Laloki River Gorge, the National Orchid Gardens, and Hombrum Bluff Lookout.
Wadden Islands, Denmark and Netherlands.
Quite often, when you come across a list like this, you’ll notice a distinct lack of birdwatching destinations in Europe. While it is true that compared to some of the more famous bird-watching hotspots, Europe is a bit behind in the pecking order, it still holds some great birding spots. To experience one of these great birding spots check out the Wadden Islands located between Denmark and Netherlands. The best time of the year to visit is May and August/September. The coolest bird to see here is the Eurasian Spoonbill, getting its name because of its spatula-like bill. These islands attract seasonal bird-watching enthusiasts who come from all over to enjoy the spectacle of birds migrating in huge numbers. Each season offers its own selection of bird species to witness.
Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, India
If you are a committed birder and you want to go where few dare to venture, then you should check out the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary in India. This remote sanctuary is found at the base of the Himalayan foothills. While Asia’s wildlife bird population and diversity isn’t news to anyone, the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is where you can find some of the rarest birds in the world, such as the majestic Temminck’s Tragopan, the Myzornis, and the proud Nuthatch.
