Izabal is a beautiful region in Guatemala that is home to a wide variety of birds. With its tropical forests, mangroves, lagoons, and wetlands, Izabal is a paradise for birdwatchers.
The region is home to over 500 species of birds, including toucans, parrots, hummingbirds, cormorants, kingfishers, and many more. Birdwatching in Izabal is an amazing experience for anyone interested in discovering the incredible biodiversity of the region.
From colorful parrots to majestic eagles, Izabal is a great destination for bird enthusiasts.
1. Pied-billed Grebe
The Pied-billed Grebe is a water bird belonging to the Grebe family. It is the only species remaining in the genus Podilymbus, following the extinction of the Atitlán grebe. This species is native to the Americas and is often found in ponds located in the region.
This species has a distinctive bill that is black on top and white in the center, thus giving it its name. The Pied-Billed Grebe has an olive-brown back and white underparts. It has a short neck and a rounded head.
It is a relatively small bird, with a body length of 11-14 inches. This species is an excellent swimmer and diver. It uses its feet to propel itself in the water, and its wings to maneuver in tight spaces. Its diet consists mostly of aquatic insects, small fish, and crustaceans.
It is also known to eat some plant material. The Pied-billed Grebe is an important species in the Americas, as it helps to maintain the balance of aquatic ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podilymbus |
| Species | P. podiceps |
2. Great Tinamou
The great tinamou is a species of bird that belongs to the tinamou family and is native to Central and South America. This ground-dwelling bird is characterized by its long legs and large feet, which allow it to move quickly over the ground.
It has a long and slender bill, and its plumage is a combination of browns, grays, and black. There are several subspecies of the great tinamou, with the most notable difference being their coloration.
For example, the red-legged tinamou has a reddish-brown body with lighter wings and tail, while the black-legged tinamou has a black body with white underparts. Other subspecies have a combination of colors, including various shades of brown, gray, and black.
In addition to coloration, other differences between the subspecies include size, habitat, and diet.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Tinamiformes |
| Family | Tinamidae |
| Genus | Tinamus |
| Species | T. major |
3. Common Pauraque
The pauraque, also known as the common pauraque, is a species of nightjar bird. It is one of two birds that belong to the genus Nyctidromus. This species is native to the subtropical and tropical regions of the New World.
The pauraque is mostly a non-migratory bird, with the exception of the northernmost birds that migrate to warmer climates during the winter. This species is found in a wide range of habitats, from open grasslands to semi-arid woodlands.
They are nocturnal and feed mostly on insects, which they hunt by swooping down from the air. The pauraque has a distinctive plumage, with a mottled brown and white pattern. The males have a white throat patch, while the females have an orange one.
They have long, pointed wings and a long tail, which helps them maneuver in the air as they hunt their prey.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Nyctidromus |
| Species | N. albicollis |
4. Pale-vented Pigeon
The pale-vented pigeon is a species of large pigeon found in the tropical Americas. It is a member of the genus Patagioenas, a group of birds that have evolved over many years to inhabit a wide range of warm-temperate and tropical habitats.
This evolutionary radiation has enabled the pale-vented pigeon to become one of the most widespread species of its family, inhabiting much of Central and South America. The pale-vented pigeon is a medium-sized bird, with a length of around 11 inches and a wingspan of up to 24 inches.
Its plumage is predominantly gray, with a distinctive white band across its vent. Its head and neck are black, and its tail is tipped with a white band.
The pale-vented pigeon has a wide diet, feeding on fruits, seeds, nuts, and invertebrates. The pale-vented pigeon is a social bird, often living in flocks of up to 15 individuals. They are known to be quite vocal, and can often be heard in the early morning and late evening.
They are monogamous birds, and the two partners will often remain together for life. Overall, the pale-vented pigeon is an impressive species of bird, having evolved over many generations to inhabit a wide range of warm-temperate and tropical Americas.
Its impressive evolutionary radiation has allowed it to become one of the most widespread species of its family, and it is a true marvel of the natural world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Patagioenas |
| Species | P. cayennensis |
5. Plain Chachalaca
The plain chachalaca is an impressive species of bird belonging to the Cracidae family, which includes chachalacas, guans, and curassows.
It is native to a wide range of tropical and subtropical habitats, stretching from the Rio Grande Valley in the southernmost United States all the way to Costa Rica in the northernmost region.
The plain chachalaca typically inhabits mesquite thickets, which are dense, woody shrubs and small trees that occur in dry habitats.
This species is quite large in size and is known for its distinctive vocalizations, which are loud, raucous calls that can often be heard during the early morning hours.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Cracidae |
| Genus | Ortalis |
| Species | O. vetula |
6. Scaly-breasted Hummingbird
Source: ebird.org
The scaly-breasted hummingbird or scaly-breasted brewing is a species of hummingbird that is part of the “emeralds”, a tribe of subfamily Trochilinae.
This species of hummingbird is found in various countries in Central and South America, including Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Panama.
These small birds are renowned for their vibrant colors and distinctive markings, which can include iridescent green feathers, white patches, and dark scales on the chest. As hummingbirds, they are also capable of hovering and flying backward and forwards with great agility.
This species of hummingbird is found in a variety of habitats, ranging from humid rainforests to dry scrublands. They feed on the nectar of flowers and also feed on small insects and spiders. In addition, they have also been known to feed on tree sap.
This species of hummingbird is a popular sight for birdwatchers as it is relatively easy to spot in its native range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Phaeochroa |
| Species | P. cuvierii |
7. Rufous-tailed Hummingbird
The Rufous-tailed Hummingbird is a species of hummingbird that belongs to the Trochilini tribe of the Trochilinae subfamily. It is found throughout east-central Mexico, Central America, Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela. This species is considered to be of medium size.
The Rufous-tailed Hummingbird is a brightly colored bird with a white chin, a green throat, and a rufous-colored tail. The wings are green and the belly is grayish. The tail is quite long and curved, and the bill is slightly down-curved.
Its call is a high-pitched chirp, and it is an active forager, often seen hovering while feeding on nectar and small insects. The Rufous-tailed Hummingbird is a solitary species and is not usually seen in large flocks.
It is migratory, breeding in northern Mexico and the southern United States, and migrating south for the winter. It prefers montane and forest habitats, but can also be seen in gardens and other urban areas.
This species is threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation, agricultural practices, and urbanization. Therefore, it is important to conserve the habitats that this species depends on for survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Amazilia |
| Species | A. tzacatl |
8. Great Egret
The great egret is a large, widely distributed bird found in many parts of the world. It is also known as the common egret, large egret, great white egret, or great white heron.
There are four subspecies of the great egret, which can be found in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe. In more recent years, it has also been spotted in more northern areas of Europe, indicating that its range is expanding.
The great egret is a majestic bird, with an overall white plumage and yellow bill. Its wingspan is around 40-50 inches, and it is quite tall when standing, with a height of up to four feet. It has long legs and a long neck, which is often held in an S-shape.
It is an opportunistic feeder, and its diet consists mainly of small fish, amphibians, reptiles, and insects. The great egret is a protected species in many countries, and its population is increasing due to the conservation efforts of many organizations.
It is considered a symbol of grace and beauty, and has been a part of many cultures throughout history. Its presence is a reminder of the importance of protecting our natural world and its inhabitants.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. alba |
9. Snowy Egret
The snowy egret is a species of small white heron that is native to North, Central, and South America. It is a member of the heron family, and its genus name is derived from Provençal French for the little egret, aigrette.
The species name, thula, is an Araucano term for the black-necked swan. This name was applied to the snowy egret in error by Chilean naturalist Juan Ignacio Molina in 1782. The snowy egret is a beautiful white bird with a long, slender neck and long legs.
It has a black bill and yellow feet. Its wings are white with black tips. During breeding season, the snowy egret has long, lacy plumes on its back and head, giving it a very distinct appearance. The snowy egret feeds mainly on fish, frogs, and crustaceans.
It can also be found foraging in shallow waters for food. It is usually seen wading in shallow waters, standing still, and waiting for prey to come close. The snowy egret is a social bird and can often be seen in flocks.
They usually nest in small colonies in trees or shrubs near bodies of water. They lay two to four eggs and incubate them for about three weeks.
Both the male and female help in caring for the young. The snowy egret is an important species of bird that provides valuable ecosystem services. They remove unwanted insects from wetlands, and they also help to control the spread of disease-causing organisms.
They also provide a valuable source of food for other animals. The snowy egret is an important species to protect, and it should be conserved for future generations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. thula |
10. Ardeidae
Herons are a large family of birds that can be found near freshwater and coastal areas all over the world. They are part of the Ardeidae family, and there are currently 72 recognized species.
Some of these species are known as egrets or bitterns, but they are still classified as herons. Herons are distinguished by their long legs and long necks.
They are usually quite tall and slender birds, and are usually gray or blue in color, with some species having white or black plumage. They are carnivorous birds and mainly eat small fish, amphibians, and other aquatic creatures.
Herons are also known for their graceful and slow flight, as they often soar high above the water and slowly flap their wings in order to stay in the air. They are also excellent swimmers, as they have webbed feet that help them move through the water with ease.
Herons are important animals to many ecosystems, as they help to control populations of insects and other aquatic animals, as well as provide food for predators like owls and hawks.
They are also important to humans, as they are often used as food and their feathers are used to adorn clothing..
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
11. Black-bellied Whistling Duck
The black-bellied whistling duck, previously known as the black-bellied tree duck, is a species of whistling duck. This species of duck was mainly found in the southernmost areas of the United States, Mexico, and tropical Central to south-central South America prior to 2000.
Now, the black-bellied whistling duck is found year-round in many parts of the United States. This duck species can be easily identified by its unique coloration. The upper parts of the duck are mottled brown, while its underside is black and white.
In addition to its distinct coloration, this species of duck is also known for its whistling call. The ducks will often use their whistles to form pairs and locate each other in the wild. The black-bellied whistling duck is a very adaptable species.
Its diet consists of a variety of foods, such as seeds, grains, insects, and aquatic plant material.
This species of duck is also known to be quite social; they will often form large flocks that can be seen foraging in swamps, marshes, and wetlands. The black-bellied whistling duck is a unique species of duck that can be found in many parts of the United States.
It is easily recognized by its distinct coloration and the whistling call it produces. This species is very adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, often forming large flocks to feed on a variety of foods.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Dendrocygna |
| Species | D. autumnalis |
12. White-necked Jacobin
The white-necked jacobin is a species of hummingbird that is found in a wide range of places, from Mexico all the way down to Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, and even Trinidad & Tobago. It is a medium-sized bird, with a length of about 5 inches and a weight of approximately 6.5 grams.
It is mainly a solitary bird, but during breeding season it can be seen in pairs or in small groups. The white-necked jacobin has a distinct white throat and a dark head, with a grayish-green back and a yellow belly.
The male has a blue crest and a black chin, while the female has a brown crest and a white chin. The wings have a dark trailing edge and a white stripe near the body. The white-necked jacobin feeds on nectar from flowering plants, as well as small insects and spiders.
It has a fast and direct flight and is often seen hovering in the air as it feeds. It prefers forests and open woodlands, but can also be found in gardens and parks. The white-necked jacobin is also known by several other names, including great jacobin and collared hummingbird.
It is a relatively common bird, but its population is declining in some areas due to habitat destruction. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure its continued survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Florisuga |
| Species | F. mellivora |
13. Bare-throated Tiger Heron
The bare-throated tiger heron is a spectacular wading bird of the heron family, Ardeidae. It has a large range, being found from Mexico all the way to northwestern Colombia.
Interestingly, there was one recorded sighting of this species in the United States, in Hidalgo County, Texas. This species has an impressive size, measuring 80 cm in length and weighing 1,200 g.
It is a long-legged bird that is mostly grey in color, with a black head and neck and white stripes on the side of its neck. It has bright yellow eyes and a large, slightly curved bill.
This species is usually seen hunting in shallow water or along the shoreline, where it preys on fish, amphibians, insects, and other small creatures. It is an opportunistic feeder that will also take advantage of any available food sources.
The bare-throated tiger heron is a fascinating species that is sure to captivate anyone lucky enough to observe it in its natural habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Tigrisoma |
| Species | T. mexicanum |
14. Spotted Wood Quail
The spotted wood quail is a small bird belonging to the New World quail family. These birds are found in the mountainous regions of Central America, ranging from southern Mexico all the way to western Panama.
They live in habitats that are at least 1000 meters above sea level, and they usually inhabit thickets or bamboos in dense understory vegetation. The spotted wood quail is a resident breeder, which means that they are able to reproduce in the same area where they reside.
They are capable of living in the highlands up to the timberline, a location where trees no longer grow due to the cold or extreme weather.
The spotted wood quail is an important part of the Central American ecosystem, as they play a role in the food chain and help ensure the balance of the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Odontophoridae |
| Genus | Odontophorus |
| Species | O. guttatus |
15. White-collared Swift
The white-collared swift is a species of bird from the family Apodidae, which includes swifts and treewifts. This species is part of the subfamily Cypseloidinae, which contains the swifts that are found in the Americas, as well as some species in Africa, Asia, and Europe.
The white-collared swift is native to Mexico, the Greater and Lesser Antilles, Trinidad, and all mainland South American countries except Uruguay. It is a small bird with a long, pointed wingspan and a white collar on its chest.
Its diet consists mainly of insects, which it captures on the wing. During the breeding season, the white-collared swift builds a cup-shaped nest out of mud and straw, which it attaches to vertical surfaces. It lays two to three eggs, which are incubated by both parents.
After hatching, the young birds are fed by both parents until they are ready to fledge. The white-collared swift is an adaptable species, and it has been recorded in a variety of habitats, including urban gardens, farms, and even deserts.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Streptoprocne |
| Species | S. zonaris |
16. Gray-chested Dove
The Grey-chested Dove is a species of bird found in Central and South America. It belongs to the Columbidae family, which is also known as the “pigeon and dove” family.
This species is found in several countries, including Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Panama. The Grey-chested Dove is a medium-sized bird with a grey chest, white head, and brown back.
Its wings are brown with black edges, and its tail is white with a black tip. It has a grey bill and brown eyes. In its natural habitat, the Grey-chested Dove feeds on seeds, fruits, and other small invertebrates.
It can be found in a variety of habitats, such as woodland, savanna, and dry shrubland. It prefers to nest in trees or shrubs near rivers and streams.
The Grey-chested Dove breeds during the dry season, and typically lays two white eggs. The Grey-chested Dove is not currently considered threatened, but its population is declining due to habitat destruction and fragmentation.
It is also hunted for food in some parts of its range. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the long-term survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Leptotila |
| Species | L. cassinii |
17. Gray-headed Dove
Source: ebird.org
The grey-headed dove is a large species of dove that is found in the New World. It is native to eastern Mexico and can be found all the way down to Colombia. It is a fairly large bird, measuring around 12 inches in length, and its body is predominantly grey in color.
Its head is a light shade of grey, and it has a distinct black spot near its eyes.
The bill is also black and the wings are tipped with white. The grey-headed dove is a very adaptable species, and it can be found in a variety of different habitats, from dense forests to open grasslands.
It is usually found in pairs or small flocks, and it feeds mainly on seeds and fruits. It nests in trees or shrubs and lays one to two eggs. The grey-headed dove is not currently considered threatened or endangered, however, it is still vulnerable to habitat loss and hunting.
It is a symbol of peace and tranquility, and its distinctive call is often heard in the early morning hours.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Leptotila |
| Species | L. plumbeiceps |
18. Green-breasted Mango
The green-breasted mango, also known as Prevost’s mango, is a hummingbird belonging to the subfamily Polytminae in the Trochilidae family.
This species can be found in a variety of places including eastern Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and Venezuela, and even as a rare visitor in the United States.
This species of hummingbird is known for its unique green breast, which distinguishes it from other hummingbird species. It is also known for its long wingspan and impressive flying ability.
Its diet consists mainly of nectar from flowers and small insects, and it is often seen hovering around flowers. Its beautiful plumage makes it a popular sighting among birdwatchers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Anthracothorax |
| Species | A. prevostii |
19. Little Tinamou
The little tinamou is a small bird species belonging to the genus Tinamus. It is native to Central and South America, as well as to the Caribbean island of Trinidad. This species is found mainly in lowland rainforests and has a wide range from Mexico to northern Argentina.
It is a ground-dwelling bird that prefers to feed on seeds, fruits, and insects. It is typically found in pairs or small groups and is usually shy and secretive. The little tinamou is a medium-sized bird with a long tail and a short bill.
It is grey-brown in color with a white belly and a white stripe on the forehead. These birds have strong legs and are able to fly short distances. The little tinamou is an important part of the ecosystem, as it helps to disperse seeds and feed on small insects.
It is also an important food source for many predators such as hawks, harpy eagles, and snakes.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Tinamiformes |
| Family | Tinamidae |
| Genus | Crypturellus |
| Species | C. soui |
20. White-bellied Emerald
The white-bellied emerald is a species of hummingbird belonging to the Trochilini tribe of the Trochilinae subfamily. This species of hummingbird is found in several Central American countries, including Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, Mexico, and Nicaragua.
The white-bellied emerald is easily distinguishable due to its bright emerald-green coloration. This hummingbird’s wings are typically greenish-black in color, while its underbelly is a bright white.
The white-bellied emerald is also known for its long beak, which allows it to reach deep into flowers for nectar.
The white-bellied emerald is a very important species to many of the ecosystems in Central America, as it helps to pollinate flowers and provide food for other animals that inhabit the region.
It is important to ensure the safety of this species, as it is a vital part of the Central American ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Chlorestes |
| Species | C. candida |
21. Sora
The sora is a small waterbird that belongs to the Rallidae family, which is commonly referred to as the sora rail or sora crake. This species of bird can be found in many parts of North America. The genus name Porzana is an Italian term used to describe small rails.
The specific name Carolina is derived from the Carolina Colony, which was an area of North America that was originally colonized by the British. The sora is a unique bird that is easily recognizable due to its distinctive plumage and call.
It is a shy species that prefers to remain in dense vegetation or marshes and is known to forage in shallow waters. The sora is an important species to the ecology of many parts of North America, as it helps to keep the insect and aquatic plant populations in balance.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Porzana |
| Species | P. carolina |
Conclusion
The birds of Izabal are a wonderful and diverse collection of species. They are important for the local ecosystems and provide a great source of beauty and enjoyment to the region.
The variety of species, habitats, and activities make it a great place to visit and observe birds in their natural environment.
As the region continues to develop, it is important to ensure that bird populations and habitats remain healthy and abundant.
