The World of Bird-Watching in Panama
Bird-watching is a worldwide phenomenon, captivating enthusiasts from every corner of the globe. It’s not just a hobby—it’s a significant contributor to the economy!
In the U.S. alone, bird-watching brings in an impressive $41 billion each year, according to NOAA. With its stunning variety of more than 1,000 bird species, Panama is perfectly positioned to tap into this potential.
Panama’s Unique Opportunity
The nation’s rich biodiversity presents an extraordinary opportunity to boost its ecotourism sector, drawing travelers keen to witness its feathered marvels while supporting sustainable tourism practices.
Panama has the chance to create a harmonious relationship between its economy and environment if natural habitats are safeguarded and investments are made in eco-friendly infrastructure.
As global interest in sustainable travel continues to rise, Panama’s dedication to preserving its natural heritage will certainly establish it as a premier destination for nature enthusiasts, securing its role in the international ecotourism landscape for years to come.
Panama Bird-Watching in the NYT
Recently, Panama was featured in the NYT article “‘The Land Between’: Discovering Amazing Wildlife Along the Panama Canal.” The article highlights Panama’s location hot spot for wildlife and home to some of the world’s most captivating birds.
The article by Jeffrey Gettleman, with photographs by Toh Gouttenoire, is a thrilling story of a trip through the lush jungles that surround the Panama Canal. It includes sounds and images that recount the trip, transporting the reader to the jungles of Panama while offering insight into the quiet art of birdwatching.
“A plump little streak-chested antpitta fluttered down onto a stick, a few feet away. I stood, awe-struck, as man and bird softly called back and forth.”
The streak-chested antpitta is among the hundreds of species of birds that can be found in Panama. This specific one has been communicating with the guide Nando in the story for many years.
“This is the same bird I’ve been calling for years,” Nando said, happiness lacing his voice.
“You mean the same species of bird?” I asked.
“No, no,” he smiled. “The same individual. That bird has become quite special to me.”
"It was a moment of connection between a person and a tiny animal, lasting only a few minutes. But memorable trips are made of moments like these."
Birding is a gateway
Panama connects two continents, North and South America, and two of the world’s biggest oceans, the Pacific and the Atlantic. With dramatically different elevations and climates, from flat sunny beaches to cool, rainforest-covered mountains rising more than 10,000 feet, Panama boasts a rich diversity not only in bird species but also in plants and other wildlife.
“While we scurried behind Nando, we saw spectacular blue morpho butterflies, lumpy rodents called agouti, and leaf-cutter ants that moved across the jungle floor by the thousands, a writhing red carpet. In the distance, we heard howler monkeys, well, howling.”
The best places for Bird-Watching in Panama
The Pipeline Road in the Canal Zone
One of the most popular spots in Panama for birding enthusiasts is the Pipeline Road area in the Canal Zone. One reason is that this area is not far from Panama City, like other Bird-watching hot spots like Boquete. There is also an abundance of stunning birds in this area and knowledgeable guides.
In the NYT story, the author recounts minutes of arriving in the Canal Zone, their guides Nando and his son Ismael, helped them spot red-lored, a keel-billed toucan and whooping motmot with a long iridescent tail.
El Valle de Antón
The next hot spot for Birding in Panama, just 1 hour from Coronado and 2 hours from Panama City, is El Valle de Antón. The small mountain town sits 2,000 feet higher than Panama City, it is substantially cooler and less humid, which makes it a great option for travellers who do not like the heat of the beach.
Coronado Panama
Coronado, Panama, is known for its golf course and resort Community. However, located in the Panama Dry Arch with a preserved Dry Forest, Coronado is home to an abundance of wildlife.
While most people are enjoying the pool, strolling the beach, and enjoying the golf courses, gyms, and spas that Coronado boasts, there are a few who know that Coronado is a great place for Bird Watching. Wildlife is everywhere in Coronado, from the iguanas to the purple gallinules, herons, and kingfishers.
Boquete
Boquete is one of the most visited places in Panama for bird-watching, along with the Pipeline trails. Due to its variety of microclimates, valleys, mountains, cloud forests, and rainforests, Boquete is home to more than 400 species of birds. There are also a lot of knowledgeable guides and resorts that offer knowledge of where to find some of the country’s more elusive birds like the replensent quetzel.
