4 Top Destinations to go Birdwatching in Tobago
Tobago might be known for its unspoilt picture-perfect beaches, lush rainforests, and curried crab and dumplings, but there’s a whole lot more to this Caribbean jewel. A flock load more!
With over 260 bird species calling this island home, Tobago is a haven for avian enthusiasts.
From forest reserves to serene coastal areas, Tobago offers a diverse range of habitats. Each one teems with incredible bird species, making every birdwatching trip an adventure.
Owl you need is a guide and we’ve got you covered!
In this blog, we’ll take a whistle-stop tour of the top 4 birdwatching destinations in Tobago and discover the perfect places that offer unique birding experiences, far from the typical tourist spots.
Whether you’re a seasoned twitcher or a curious novice, Tobago’s birdwatching scene has something for everyone.
So, grab your binoculars and let’s get quacking.
4 Best Spots for Birdwatching in Tobago
Rich in flora and fauna, Tobago is the perfect place to catch a glimpse of your favourite feathered friends. Here are our 4 top spots:
- Main Ridge Forest Reserve
- Little Tobago Island
- Adventure Farm and Nature Reserve
- Flagstaff Hill
Main Ridge Forest Reserve
The Main Ridge Forest Reserve – the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere – is a must-visit for birdwatchers. This lush, green sanctuary is home to a myriad of bird species, including some that can’t be seen anywhere else on the planet.
The forest’s dense canopy and tranquil streams create a serene backdrop for birdwatching. Here, you might spot the vibrant motmot, a bird known for its distinctive tail and striking colours. And if you fancy a real treat, head out on the Gilpin Trace reserve walk. You might be lucky enough to stumble across the rufous-vented chachalaca – Tobago’s national bird.
Eager to get the most out of your birdwatching trip? Local guides, with their extensive knowledge of the forest and its avian inhabitants, can take you on a tour and help you identify the various species that you discover.
Little Tobago Island
Just off the northeastern coast of Tobago, you’ll find Little Tobago Island, fondly known as “The Bird of Paradise Island”.
This small, uninhabited island is a sanctuary for seabirds, making it an awesome location for birdwatching. Whether you’re an avid birder or you’ve just come along for the ride, visiting Little Tobago is one of the best things to do if you’re looking to explore the island region.
From the red-billed tropicbird to the brown booby, the island is brimming with a variety of seabirds. And when they come together to soar over the azure waters it’s a real spectacle to behold.
The island’s rugged cliffs and untouched vegetation provide the perfect nesting grounds for these birds. A boat ride to the island offers not just birdwatching opportunities, but also stunning views of Tobago’s coastline. There’s no better place to experience the thrill of spotting rare and beautiful bird species.
Adventure Farm and Nature Reserve
Just a 15-minute drive from the island’s capital, Scarborough, Adventure Farm and Nature Reserve is a must-visit for any birdwatching enthusiast in Tobago.
This eco-friendly destination is the place to be if you want to get up close and personal with hummingbirds, including the majestic ruby topaz. With feeders strategically placed around the property, you can see these tiny, colourful butterfly-like birds in their natural habitat.
The reserve is also home to other bird species, including the bananaquit and the barred antshrike. As you explore the grounds, it won’t just be birds you spot. It’s not uncommon to come across agoutis and tortoises.
If you’re planning to get your ornithological kicks here, print out their checklist of birds residing at the Adventure Farm and Nature Reserve. There are a whopping 48 species on the list. How many can you tick off on your visit?
Flagstaff Hill
If you’re not too tired from your daytime birdwatching pursuits, you could stay up a little later and head to Flagstaff Hill to try and spot some nocturnal bird species.
Overlooking the glorious St Giles and with Charlotteville in the distance, you could marvel at an awesome sunset as the elusive nightjar begins to emerge. Stay a little longer admiring the dusk vistas and you might spy the ultra-rare striped owl.
This isolated spot on the island is often overlooked as a birdwatching destination, but it’s well worth a visit if you have a lot of patience!
Birdwatching Tips
Birdwatching in Tobago gets you fully immersed in nature.
Here are some tips to enhance your birdwatching experience:
- Use birding apps and online resources to identify species.
- Participate in a bird count if one is happening while you’re on holiday.
- Listen for bird calls and songs to locate them.
- This can be a toughie but practise patience and quiet observation for successful birdwatching. Your fellow birdwatchers will thank you for it too!
- Always have a good pair of binoculars on you. They’ll help you spot and identify species from a distance.
And if you really want to push the boat out and get the most out of your trip, book a specialist guide to take you to the best birdwatching spots on the island.
Fly to this Caribbean Birdwatching Haven with British Airways
If Tobago is now on your birdwatching bucket list, you’re probably eager to know the best way to get there.
Fly with British Airways from London Gatwick to Tobago – with a short stop in St Lucia – and land in the tropical avian paradise just 11 hours later.
With the choice of travelling Economy, Premium Economy or Business, British Airways offers award-winning service to suit every traveller to this beautiful island.
Alongside world-class standards, flying with British Airways provides generous baggage allowances, quality British food and drink, and the opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of the airport with access to their exclusive lounges*.
*Lounge access dependent on cabin class.
Ready for an Im-peck-able Trip to Tobago?
Was that a chirp of yes?
Birdwatching in Tobago is a unique experience, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich biodiversity.
No matter your level of birding experience, Tobago’s birdwatching spots promise a memorable encounter with the feathered inhabitants of this tropical paradise.
You might be itching to pack your binoculars but you need to think about when the best time to visit Tobago is to suit your twitching needs. Click the button below to find out.
