The Republic of Panama is an amazingly biodiverse country bridging North and South America, home to an impressive variety of bird species. Its unique location makes it a haven for endemic, native, and migratory birds, rating Panama the best place in the world for birdwatching. 969 species have been recorded, ranging from local to migratory species, which attracts birdwatchers from all around the world. Collectively speaking, Panama hosts more bird species than the United States and Canada. Selva Terra Resort, located on the island of Boca Brava, Chiriqui, hosts over 200 species of birds in the surrounding island areas. Varying from beautifully multicoloured hummingbirds sipping nectar from our gorgeous garden flowers, flycatchers swooping in for bugs, to Great Blue herons and leggy spoonbills actively searching for fish in the nearby mangrove areas which are just a paddle away from the resort. Lush green forests, beautiful coastal beaches, and captivating mangrove areas are superbly attractive for the best birdwatching experience in Panama.
The Republic of Panama is a tropical country that only has two types of seasons, Winter (Rainy) and Summer (Dry). The sunny lush summer season starts in December throughout April and the rainy winter season starts in May throughout November. Peak tourism season starts in the summer period, which is a fabulous time for birdwatching in Panama. Nonetheless, the rainy winter season also brings opportunities for birdwatching in Panama. Right after the rainy season, the rainforest is gorgeous and green which shifts as time goes by. Spring time could be considered in the months of March/May when there is a lot of bird migration. Raptor species will be migrating north during this time, which is a also a great time for birdwatching in Panama.
Learn more below about the popular species you can witness birdwatching in the beautiful Republic of Panama.
The Harpy Eagle, Panama’s national bird, is one of the most powerful raptors in the world. It has a wingspan of up to 7 feet and is recognizable by its striking crown of feathers. This species is native to Panama and primarily found in dense lowland rainforests. It is non-migratory and early mornings are the best time for observation. Recommended birdwatching spots in Panama are the Darien National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as Summit Gardens Park, which the harpy eagle called “Panama” currently resides.
This critically endangered macaw is native to Panama and is recognisable by its bright green plumage with a splash of red on its forehead. Known to mimic human, animal and many other sounds, it inhabits lowland rainforests and is non-migratory. Great birdwatching spots in Panama are Darien National Park, Metropolitan National Park in Panama City and Selva Terra Resort.
The beautiful Keel-billed Toucan is native to Panama. This bird is famous for its vibrant, multicolored beak, which can grow up to 20 cm long. Non-migratory, it thrives in tropical and subtropical forests. Popular birdwatching spots Panama to observe this species include Soberanía National Park, Metropolitan Natural Park in Panama City and at Selva Terra Resort.
This striking bird is native to Panama and known for its vibrant blue crown and racket-shaped tail feathers. It prefers forested habitats, including secondary growth and plantations. The Pipeline Road in Soberanía National Park is a great spot for birdwatching in Panama, as well as the Chiriqui Highland areas like Boquete and Volcan.
This small, vibrant hummingbird is one of the most common hummingbirds in Panama. It is known for its reddish tail and iridescent green plumage. Non-migratory, it thrives in a variety of habitats, including gardens, forests, and plantations. It primarily feeds on nectar and small insects. The best time for birdwatching this species is during the early morning in areas such as Metropolitan Natural Park and Pipeline Road, and our landscaped gardens at Selva Terra Resort.
This large owl is native to Panama and named for the white spectacles around its eyes. It is nocturnal and inhabits dense forests. Feeds on small rodents and snakes. Birdwatchers can spot it in Soberanía National Park during night tours.
Formerly known as the Black-mandibled Toucan, this species is native to Panama. It has a striking yellow throat and large bill. Non-migratory, feeds on fruit and fun to watch when hanging upside down from tree branches to reach certain fruits. It inhabits humid forests and a great birdwatching spot for this species are the Darien National Park, and Soberanía National Park.
This small, brightly colored bird is native to Panama. Males are a vivid green with a black face, while females are lighter green. It feeds on fruit and nectar and is often seen in the canopy of tropical forests on Isla Boca Brava, as well as the Pipeline Road in the Gamboa area.
The Osprey is a migratory bird of prey that travels to Panama during the northern winter. Recognizable by its white underparts and brown upperparts, it is often seen near water bodies, feeding primarily on fish. The Panama Canal, the Bay of Panama and the Chiriqui coastal areas are excellent locations for birdwatching.
A subspecies of the Yellow Warbler, the Mangrove Warbler is native to Panama and easily identified by its bright yellow body and chestnut crown. It resides in coastal mangroves and is mostly non-migratory. Visitors can observe this bird in the Bay of Panama wetlands or the mangrove forests close to Selva Terra Resort.
This elegant wader is a seasonal visitor to Panama. With its slate-gray body, long neck, and dagger-like bill, the Great Blue Heron is a striking presence in wetlands and coastal areas. It primarily feeds on fish, amphibians, and small mammals. The best time for birdwatching this species is during the early morning or late afternoon in areas like the Panama Canal, and in mangrove estuary systems such as the areas near Selva Terra Resort.
The Peregrine Falcon is a migratory raptor that winters in Panama. Known for its incredible speed, it preys on birds in flight. It can be observed near coastal areas and wetlands during daylight, such as the Bay of Panama and the Chiriqui Mangrove forests, close to Selva Terra Resort.
The magnificent frigatebird is a large seabird known for its impressive wingspan and distinctive red throat pouch in males which they show off to impress the females. It feeds mainly on fish, squid, and other marine creatures, often snatching prey from the ocean’s surface or stealing food from other birds’ mid-flight. This species is appreciated on our birdwatching tours in the 2nd biggest colony in Central America at Isla Coco, in the Islas Secas Archipelago. The best time to spot them is during the breeding season or early morning when they are actively foraging.
The brown pelican is a familiar coastal bird in Boca Brava, often spotted gliding low over the waves or perched on our fishing boats during our guests’ fishing trips. Known for dramatic plunge-dives, it captures fish near the surface of the water. Its diet mainly consists of small fish, like sardines and anchovies. The best time to observe brown pelicans is early in the morning or late afternoon along coastal areas such as Boca Chica and the Gulf of Chiriquí.
A subspecies of the Resplendent Quetzal, resides in Panama. Known for its iridescent green and red plumage, it symbolizes freedom in many cultures. The quetzal is a native species that inhabits cloud forests. While mostly resident, some individuals migrate locally based on food availability. Birdwatching this species in the Chiriquí Highlands, particularly in Volcán Barú National Park is a spectacle.
This small woodpecker is native to Panama and easily identified by its black cheeks, red cap, and yellow belly. It thrives in forest edges and open woodlands. Birdwatchers can find it in Soberanía National Park and the Chiriquí Highlands.
The Scarlet Tanager is a migratory songbird that passes through Panama during its journey between North and South America. The males are of a beautiful bright red with black wings, while females are olive-yellow. Birdwatching is recommended during the early morning in forested areas during migration, such as Cerro Azul.
Native to Panama, this bird is known for its bright yellow tail and distinctive chant. It builds hanging nests in colonies, often in tall trees near water. Feeds on small invertebrates, large insects and various fruits. Great birdwatching areas are the Chiriquí Highlands and lowland forests in Panama City, like Gamboa and Soberanía National Park. They are also commonly spotted in the Chiriqui islands such as Isla Boca Brava, where Selva Terra Resort is located.
This native species is a common sight in Panama, recognized by its bright yellow belly and gray head. Non-migratory, it thrives in open habitats, including urban areas. It feeds on insects and fruits, but forages exclusively by catching flying insects from a perch. Birdwatching this species can be done throughout the whole Republic of Panama, along the Panama Canal and Selva Terra Resort.
This migratory bird passes through Panama during its seasonal movements. It is a nocturnal species with mottled brown plumage for camouflage, nests on the ground and feeds on flying insects. It can be spotted in open areas and along forest edges during migration periods.
Swainson’s Hawk is a migratory raptor that passes through Panama in large flocks during its journey from North America to South America. Known for its long wings and soaring flight, it feeds on insects and small mammals. Birdwatching this species is possible during migration season in areas like Ancon Hill or Pipeline Road.
This small but remarkable bird is a migratory species that travels thousands of miles from North America to Central America, including Panama, during the winter months. It is distinguished by its iridescent ruby-red throat in males. These hummingbirds are often seen feeding on nectar in gardens and forest edges. Birdwatching is recommended in Cerro Azul or along the Panama Canal zone during migration.
Panama’s rich avian diversity offers countless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Whether you’re drawn to majestic raptors, dazzling hummingbirds, or vibrant toucans, Panama’s varied habitats provide a haven for these incredible creatures.
The island of Boca Brava is home to some 280 species of birds. At the resort you can spot rufous-tailed hummingbirds, tropical kingbirds and red-legged honeycreepers feeding from all the flowers in the garden. If you look up in the trees you will find black hawks perched on branches as well as crested oropendolas. Other species include keel-bill toucans, orange-chinned parakeets, flycatchers and lineated woodpeckers.
Aquatic Panamanian bird species can be seen in the mangroves; all you need to do is paddle around the resort in a kayak or SUP. Great blue herons, leggy spoonbills, and ibis live in the area. Farther away is Isla Cocos, which is close to Isla Secas. This is home to Panama’s second largest colony of frigates, after Isla Iguana in Pedasi. If you are lucky, you will see the males showing off their red pouches trying to get a mate.
At Selva Terra Resort, we offer more than just a place to stay – we provide an immersive birdwatching experience in a biodiverse region of Panama. With expert nature guides, luxurious accommodations, and abundant wildlife right on our doorstep, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of rare and exotic bird species in their natural habitat. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply looking to connect with nature, Selva Terra is the perfect destination to create unforgettable memories. Book your stay today and let us help you discover the wonders of unique birdwatching in Panama.
Contact us by email at [email protected]
Birdwatching in Panama The Republic of Panama is an amazingly biodiverse country bridging North and South America, home to an impressive variety of bird species. Its unique location makes it a haven for endemic, native, and migratory birds, rating Panama the best place in the world for birdwatching. 969 species
Luxury Panama Island Resort with adventures and yoga, that not only promises relaxation but also a profound connection with yourself and the environment.
Luxury Panama Island Resort with adventures and yoga, that not only promises relaxation but also a profound connection with yourself and the environment.
Get in touch
We accept
Visa, Mastercard, Crypto (Bitcoin, Ethereum and UDSC/USDT)
Visa, Mastercard, Wire, Crypto (Bitcoin, Ethereum and UDSC)
