BIRDING
Belize is a prime bird watching destination and the Mountain Pine Ridge, Chiquibul and Caracol area is very rich in bird life. The varying habitat is home to a broad range of birds, many of which are unique to the area. Early morning birding walks and tours can be arranged with local guides.
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An on-site birding guide is available for early morning or late afternoon bird walks and birders will benefit from his extensive knowledge of local birds, their habits and calls.
Please let us know prior to your arrival if you will be requiring his services so that we can try to ensure that he is available.
Highlights for birders from all over the world include Orange Breasted Falcon, King Vulture, Stygian Owl, Laughing Falcon, Grace's Warbler, Lovely Cotinga, Tody Motmot and many more. Below is a Belize bird checklist on which all of the birds found in the area have been marked.
The jungle around the Mayan Site of Caracol provides regular views of the exquisite Keel Billed Motmot.
The cliffs around the Hidden Valley Inn's property are one of the very few nesting sites for the endangered Orange Breasted Falcon.
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Another extremely rare bird found on the property is the Stygian Owl. These uncommon owls are mostly restricted to Pine and Pine Oak woodlands. Rick & Freddy, Hidden Valley Inn's resident bird guides have been monitoring the 9 daytime roosts on the property and hope to learn more about the owl's habits. Throughout the 2008/2009 birding season, every birding group that visited the resort saw this elusive nocturnal owl.
Many days could be spent birding on the roads and trails of the private reserve surrounding the Inn. The best time of day for observing activity is daybreak and dusk. For the serious birder, and those who may need a little help, local guides can be arranged for on and off property trips. Their knowledge and experience is invaluable in finding those special birds to add to your life list.
