Bird Watching in Puerto Rico

From misty mountain forests to sun-soaked coastal wetlands, Puerto Rico is home to 280+ bird species — including colorful endemics and rare migratory visitors you won’t find anywhere else.

Birdwatching — or birding — is one of the island’s fastest-growing outdoor activities. Puerto Rico’s compact size means you can experience rainforest species in the morning, mangrove birds by noon, and coastal migratory flocks by sunset — all in a single day.

Many species reveal themselves first by their call. Experienced birders often identify todies, warblers, cuckoos, and tanagers simply by listening. Spend a little time on the island and you’ll quickly recognize the distinctive “spit-spit” call of the Puerto Rican Tody.

New to birdwatching? Start in your neighborhood park. Bring binoculars, stay quiet, and let the island show you just how alive its mornings are.

Want to Identify a Bird?

The island’s most complete online bird catalog:

BirdsOfPuertoRico.com

High-quality photos, calls, descriptions, locations, and more.

Top Birds You’ll Want to See

Puerto Rican Tody
Great Egret

Lard, white, and majestic — a Caribbean favorite.

Puerto Rican Woodpecker
Puerto Rican Woodpecker

Look for its striking black-and-red plumage around mature trees.

Puerto Rico Is a Birding Paradise

The island’s landscape shifts dramatically — cloud forests, karst formations, coastal lagoons, mangroves, dry forests, and mountain rainforests — creating habitats that host an incredible diversity of species.

Some iconic Puerto Rican endemics include:

  • Puerto Rican Parrot – critically endangered, found in El Yunque & Río Abajo
  • Puerto Rican Tody – tiny emerald jewel of the forest canopy
  • Puerto Rican Woodpecker – the island’s only native woodpecker
  • Elfin Woods Warbler – rare species found in high mountain forests

Best Places for Birdwatching

🇵🇷 El Yunque National Forest

Rainforest habitat with rare species, waterfalls, and dramatic elevation changes.

El Yunque National Forest Puerto Rico
🌿 Río Abajo State Forest

Lush karst forest home to the Puerto Rican Amazon & Tody. Quiet, peaceful, and ideal for dedicated birders.

🦩 Cabo Rojo Salt Flats

Pink flamingos, migrating shorebirds, and one of the most spectacular sunset views in Puerto Rico.

Best Times to Go Birdwatching

  • Early Morning: Birds are most vocal and active.
  • Late Afternoon: Great light and increased movement.
  • November – April: Peak migratory season.
  • After Rain: Forest species emerge near open canopy areas.

What to Bring (Island Edition)

  • Lightweight binoculars
  • Field guide or birding app
  • Water (Puerto Rican humidity is no joke!)
  • Hat + sunscreen
  • Bug repellent for wetland/mangrove areas
  • Camera or phone with zoom
  • Comfortable walking shoes

Experience the Magic of Puerto Rican Birdlife

Whether you’re after rare endemics, colorful tropical species, or peaceful mornings surrounded by rainforest sounds, Puerto Rico offers some of the most rewarding birding in the Caribbean.