Panama celebrated Global Big Day

Panama celebrated Global Big Day (GBD) this Saturday, along with birdwatchers from around the world to record as many species as possible in a 24-hour period.

Each year hundreds of birdwatchers in Panama tour parks, forests, islands, and rural communities for birds on GBD, generating data that will help maintain Panama’s biodiversity while promoting birding and conservation

"This is a great opportunity, not only to enjoy the birds we have in the country, but it also helps position Panama globally as a powerhouse in birdwatching, and that contributes to the development of the birdwatching industry."

-Guido Berguido, Biologist 

Berguido explained that the main objective of this event "is to get as many people as possible to go birdwatching," and mentioned that among the species of greatest interest at this edition are the harpy eagle, Panama’s national bird, as well as endemic species from both the country and the region.

This year, the GBD highlights that birdwatching in Panama is an economic driver in rural communities and nature reserves. Moreover, is in line with the promotion of sustainable tourism, and the strengthening of environmental conservation throughout the country.

“Birdwatching is a multi-billion dollar industry worldwide, and it represents a major economic boost for Panama,” Berguido emphasizes. 

According to data from the Panamanian Ministry of Environment (Miambiente), birdwatching in the United States alone generates more than $14.5 billion annually, thanks to scientists, observers, and enthusiasts who travel motivated by their passion for birds. (Source La Estrella) 

According to Audubon Panama’s 2024 Bird Checklist of Panama, the country is home to 1,026 species, 177 of which are migratory, including the White-winged Hawk, the Prothonotary Warbler, the Western Sandpiper, and the Scarlet Tanager. (Audubon Panama)