Tikal is an outstanding place to watch birds of prey: thanks to its protected status, it attracts wildlife in abundance. Its dense tropical vegetation and sultry weather provide an excellent habitat for many of these creatures. There are 300 species of migratory and endemic birds found in Tikal and many can be seen especially in the early morning and at dusk. Stay in the park till 8 p.m. to catch some nocturnal wildlife in action – check with the guards in advance. Grab your binoculars and tread softly through the jungle, even amateurs will be able to spot something. These particular areas present excellent bird watching opportunities:

•Temple IV – The ornate hawk-eagle, American kestrel and red-crowned ant-tanager can be admired from the temple’s roof comb, usually just before the rain starts.

•Temple of the Inscriptions - During the migration season, you can see hundreds of swallow-tailed kite flying over the ruins. Colorful ocellated turkeys are commonly spotted near the ruins as well.

•Northern Complexes - The collared araçari and the stunning keel-billed toucan feed on the fruits of the guarumo palms close to the temples.

•Gran Plaza – From the back of Temple II, you can often observe the emerald toucanet and golden-fronted woodpeckers.

•El Mundo Perdido – The road to this complex is a habitat of the mealy parrot.

•Reservoir near the entrance – Three species of kingfisher, the blue ground dove, and blue herons can be seen in this area.

Location:
Guatemala

Birdwatching Types:
Birdwatching

Relative price: Budget

Travel Skills: None

By Nellie Huang

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Created: 30 Sep 2009

Updated: 27 Oct 2009