Bird Spotting
at the Strelitzia Project
With the Strelitzia Project being situated at the edge of a stunning expanse of dense jungle that stretches, almost uninterrupted, well over 200km before reaching the town of Merida, there is an abundance of bird species to observe & admire. After a suggestion from one of our lovely AirBnB guests (Thanks Jack!), we have put together this little guide for you!
Great Kiskadee
The great kiskadee is a passerine bird in the tyrant flycatcher family, Tyrannidae.
It breeds in open woodland with some tall trees, including cultivation and around human habitation. It is mainly found in Belize, and from the Lower Rio Grande Valley in southern Texas and Mexico.
It is a common, noisy and conspicuous bird. It is almost omnivorous and hunts like a shrike or flycatcher, waiting on an open perch high in a tree to sally out and catch insects in flight or to pounce upon rodents and similar small vertebrates. It will also take prey (such as small lizards and frogs) and some seeds and fruit from vegetation by gleaning and jumping for it or ripping it off in mid-hover, and occasionally dives for fish or tadpoles in shallow water, making it one of the few fishing passerines
Great kiskadees are monogamous and defend a territory. Both sexes build the large domed nest that has a side entrance. It is chiefly composed of grasses and small twigs but can also incorporate lichen, string and plastic. The birds will steal material from other nests. The nest is placed in a wide range of sites, often in an exposed position high up in a tree or on man-made structures. The clutch is 3 to 4 eggs. Only the female incubates the eggs; the male guards the nest while she leaves the nest to feed. The eggs hatch after 16–17 days. The chicks are fed by both parents and fledge after 17–18 days.
Be sure to look out for those nests above the Infinity Pool and in the trees close to the Cenote!
Chance of Spotting:
90%
Orange Oriole
The orange oriole is a striking bird species found in the Yucatan region of Mexico. One of the most interesting facts about these birds is their vibrant orange coloration, which is more intense in males than in females. Their feathers are a bright, almost neon orange color that makes them stand out against the green foliage of the forest. This coloration is thought to be a form of sexual selection, as males with brighter orange plumage are more attractive to females.
Another fascinating fact about the orange oriole is their unique nesting habits. Unlike many bird species that build nests in trees or on the ground, orange orioles construct elaborate hanging nests that are suspended from the branches of tall trees. These nests can be up to a meter long and are made from a variety of materials, including plant fibers, spider webs, and feathers. The nests are carefully woven to create a sturdy structure that can support the weight of the birds and their young. Watching orange orioles build their nests and care for their chicks is a truly awe-inspiring sight and a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of these remarkable birds.
Orange orioles are social birds that typically form small groups or pairs during the breeding season. During this time, males will engage in elaborate courtship displays to attract a mate, which can involve singing, displaying their bright orange plumage, and offering gifts of food. Once a pair bond is formed, the male and female will work together to build their hanging nest, incubate the eggs, and care for the young.
Orange orioles are generally monogamous and will remain with their mate for multiple breeding seasons. However, some males have been observed engaging in extra-pair copulations, where they mate with females outside of their pair bond. These behaviors are thought to be a way for males to increase their reproductive success and pass on their genes to as many offspring as possible. Overall, orange orioles are fascinating birds with complex social and mating behaviors that make them a joy to observe and study.
These bright and vibrant birds are less prominent in this area than the Great Kiskadee, so you will have to be a little more patient (or lucky!) to spot one!
Chance of Spotting:
70%
Yucatan Jay
The Yucatan jay is a bird species endemic to the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, Belize, and northern Guatemala. These jays are highly social and can be found in small groups of up to 10 individuals, and sometimes in flocks of over 30 birds. Their diet mainly consists of insects, fruits, and seeds. Insects make up a significant portion of their diet, with ants, termites, and beetles being some of their favorites. They have also been known to eat small reptiles and amphibians, as well as small mammals like mice and bats. Yucatan jays are important seed dispersers, with their diet consisting of various fruits such as those of the hog plum, gumbo-limbo, and wild figs.
Interestingly, Yucatan jays are known for their remarkable ability to mimic the calls of other bird species, and even other animals like dogs and cats. This mimicry is thought to help them deceive other birds and animals to avoid predators and protect their territory. Yucatan jays are also known to cache their food, storing it in crevices in trees or under leaves. They can remember the location of their caches for up to six months and have been observed relocating their food caches to avoid being stolen by other birds or animals. The Yucatan jay has distinctive blue feathers on its back and head, a black mask, and a white throat. They are considered to be of least concern by the IUCN due to their large range and stable population.
Don't leave your food out for too long, these crafty birds will swoop in and take it all before you know it!
Chance of Spotting:
100%
Great-Tailed Grackle
The Great-tailed grackle is a large, blackbird species that is found in various habitats across North and Central America, from the southwestern United States to Costa Rica. These birds have a highly varied diet and are opportunistic feeders, consuming a wide range of foods such as insects, fruits, seeds, small vertebrates, and even carrion. They are known to forage on the ground or in trees, and have been observed catching insects in mid-air. Great-tailed grackles are also known to scavenge food from human settlements and trash dumps, and have been seen stealing food from other birds.
The male has a glossy black plumage and a bright yellow eye, while the female is more subdued in coloration.
One interesting fact about Great-tailed grackles is their ability to mimic sounds, including those made by other birds and even mechanical sounds like car alarms and cell phone ringtones. They are also highly social birds and can be found in flocks of up to several hundred individuals. During breeding season, males are known for their elaborate displays, which include puffing out their feathers and spreading their wings to reveal iridescent plumage. Great-tailed grackles are also known for their habit of congregating in large numbers at roosting sites, sometimes numbering in the thousands. Their droppings at these roosting sites can cause damage to buildings and vehicles, leading to conflicts with humans in some areas.
You will often see them taking a bath at the Infinity Pool's edge. Also, if you pass by the Centro Maya shopping mall car park at around sunset, you will see (and hear!) literally thousands of these birds settling down for the night in the trees there!
Chance of Spotting:
100%
The Yucatan Amazon
The Yucatan Amazon bird, also known as the yellow-lored Amazon, is a small parrot species native to the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, Belize, and northern Guatemala.
These parrots are highly social and communicate with each other using a variety of calls and songs. In fact, their vocalizations are so complex that researchers have found evidence of regional dialects among different populations of Yucatan Amazons.
Yucatan Amazon birds are believed to be monogamous, meaning they form long-term pair bonds with a single mate. These pairs will often form flocks with other pairs or small groups of birds. During the breeding season (Feb - June) pairs will work together to build a nest in a tree cavity, where the female will lay 2-4 eggs. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs and caring for the chicks once they hatch.
The Yucatan Amazon birds are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day and rest at night. They spend most of their time foraging for food, which primarily consists of fruits, seeds, and nuts.
Look out for these in the late afternoon as they fly over the house and return to the jungle as the sun sets. You will hear them before you see them; as they squawk loudly when they fly! They usually don't stop, so you will need to be quick to catch a glimpse of their beautiful colors. Again, ask for a video of them eating fruit from a nearby tree if you wish!
Chance of Spotting:
95%
Yucatan Woodpecker
The Yucatan woodpecker is a small woodpecker species found in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, Belize, and northern Guatemala. They are easily recognized by their striking black-and-white plumage, with a bright red crown and nape. Yucatan woodpeckers are diurnal birds, and their primary feeding activity occurs during the early morning and late afternoon hours. They feed primarily on insects, especially ants and termites, which they obtain by pecking at tree trunks and branches. They also feed on fruits and seeds, and have been known to visit bird feeders for suet and fruit.
The Yucatan woodpecker has a unique zygodactyl foot structure, which means that they have two toes pointing forward and two pointing backward. This specialized foot structure allows them to cling to vertical surfaces and climb trees with ease.
One interesting behavior of the Yucatan woodpecker is its use of drumming to communicate with other birds. They will drum on resonant surfaces like hollow trees or metal objects to create a loud, rapid tapping sound, which can be heard over long distances. This drumming behavior is used for territorial communication and attracting mates during the breeding season. Yucatan woodpeckers also excavate nest cavities in trees, typically choosing dead or decaying trees. They are monogamous and will defend their nest sites aggressively against potential predators or competitors.
Another interesting fact about the Yucatan woodpecker is that they have a specialized third eyelid called a nictitating membrane, which protects their eyes while they are pecking at trees.
This woodpecker is quite hard to spot as it usually visits our trees on its own and doesn't stick around for long, but focus your gaze toward the top of the tree trunks in the late afternoons for the best chance the get a glimpse of their stunning red crown!
Chance of Spotting:
40%
Turkey Vulture
The Turkey vulture is a scavenger bird that can be found in the Yucatan Peninsula, as well as throughout North and South America. These large birds have a distinctive bald head (distinguishable from the Black Vulture by its red head and more prominent white feathers on its wings) and a wingspan of up to 6 feet. They are primarily scavengers, feeding on carrion and dead animals. Their keen sense of smell allows them to locate carcasses from miles away, and they can often be seen soaring in circles in search of food. Despite their size and intimidating appearance, Turkey vultures are relatively gentle birds that rarely engage in aggressive behavior.
One interesting fact about Turkey vultures is their habit of defecating on their own legs. This behavior, known as urohidrosis, serves to cool the bird's legs and feet, as the evaporating moisture from the feces lowers the temperature. Turkey vultures are also known to roost and nest in groups, with dozens or even hundreds of birds congregating in a single location. During the breeding season, they lay their eggs in secluded areas like caves or hollow trees, and both parents take turns incubating the eggs and caring for the young. Although they are primarily scavengers, Turkey vultures have been known to catch live prey such as small mammals, reptiles, and birds, using their powerful talons to grab and subdue their prey.
You will find them soaring high in the sky throughout the day!
Chance of Spotting:
100%
Black Vulture
The Black vulture, also known as "zopilote" in Spanish, is a common scavenger bird found in the Yucatan Peninsula and throughout much of the Americas. They are slightly smaller than Turkey vultures, with a wingspan of about 5 feet, and have a distinctive black plumage with a gray head. Black vultures are also primarily scavengers, feeding on carrion and dead animals, and are often seen in large groups congregating around roadkill or other sources of food. Unlike Turkey vultures, Black vultures have a keen eyesight and rely more on visual cues to locate their food, although they also have a good sense of smell.
One way to distinguish Black vultures from Turkey vultures is by their behavior in flight. Black vultures are known for their more agile and acrobatic flight, with quick turns and dips, while Turkey vultures typically soar in circles with a more steady flight pattern. Another distinguishing feature is their bill - Black vultures have a shorter, thicker bill with a hooked tip, while Turkey vultures have a longer, thinner bill with a more hooked appearance. Despite their scavenging habits, Black vultures have also been known to hunt live prey, such as small mammals, reptiles, and even other birds. They will use their sharp talons and beak to attack and subdue their prey, often in groups.
Sometimes, you will spot these large birds, along with the Turkey Vultures, perched on the rooftops of our neighbors' houses. Maybe they will even land on the Solar Panels atop Skyloft... it's happened before!
Chance of Spotting:
100%
Chachalaca
The Chachalaca is a bird species found in the Yucatan Peninsula and other parts of Central and South America. These medium-sized birds have a distinctive, loud call that sounds like a raucous series of chattering, cackling, and whistling notes, which is how they get their name. The Chachalaca's song is often heard at dawn and dusk, as well as during the day, and serves as a means of communication between individuals within a group. They are social birds and often move around in groups of up to 20 individuals, feeding and roosting together.
Chachalacas are primarily herbivores, feeding on fruits, berries, seeds, and leaves. They are known to be very vocal and have a variety of vocalizations that they use for different purposes, such as alarm calls to warn other members of their group of potential danger. Chachalacas also have a unique breeding behavior where males build communal nests out of twigs and leaves, and up to 10 females will lay their eggs in the same nest. The male Chachalaca will incubate the eggs and care for the chicks until they are ready to leave the nest. Another interesting fact about the Chachalaca is that they have a specialized gizzard that allows them to digest tough plant materials, such as seeds and leaves, which makes up the majority of their diet.
Another interesting fact about Chachalacas' social behavior is that they have a well-established hierarchy within their groups. The dominant male in the group is usually the oldest and largest individual, and he is in charge of defending the group's territory and leading the group's movements. Other males in the group may challenge the dominant male, and these challenges can lead to physical fights. The dominant male will also mate with the females in the group, while subordinate males may not have the opportunity to mate at all. This social hierarchy is maintained through vocalizations, displays of aggression, and physical interactions, and it helps to ensure that the strongest and most fit individuals pass on their genes to the next generation.
To spot these, watch out for rustling branches; as groups of up to 7 will hop and jump between the trees before flying off. We just hope for your sake that you don't hear their signature "song" at 5am in the morning!
Chance of Spotting:
60%
Buff-Bellied Hummingbird
The Buff-bellied Hummingbird is a small and colorful bird species that can be found in the Yucatan Peninsula and other parts of Central America. They have a distinctive iridescent green plumage on their upperparts, a cinnamon-colored belly, and a small curved bill that is adapted for feeding on nectar. Buff-bellied Hummingbirds are highly active and can often be seen flitting from flower to flower, using their long beak to extract nectar. They are also known to feed on small insects and spiders, which they catch in mid-air using their specialized tongue.
To spot a Buff-bellied Hummingbird, one of the best places to look is around flowering plants and shrubs, especially those with tubular-shaped flowers that are adapted for hummingbirds. They are also attracted to feeders that contain a mixture of sugar water, which can be placed in a visible location. Buff-bellied Hummingbirds are fast and agile fliers, and they are able to hover in mid-air by flapping their wings at an incredible rate of up to 80 beats per second. Their wings are also specially adapted to be able to rotate in a figure-eight motion, which helps them to achieve lift and hover in place.
Another interesting fact about the Buff-bellied Hummingbird is that they are known to be highly territorial and will aggressively defend their feeding and nesting areas from other birds, including larger species. They are also able to enter a state of torpor, a type of deep sleep, during cold or food-scarce periods to conserve energy. During torpor, their body temperature drops significantly, and their metabolic rate slows down, allowing them to survive for longer periods without food. The Buff-bellied Hummingbird is a fascinating bird species that is highly adapted for survival in the Yucatan's hot and humid climate.
For now, it will likely only be our Skyloft guests who will be able to witness this stunning bird, as we have a daily visitor that feeds from the Golden Trumpet flowers that feature on our rooftop. You will have to be attentive though, as visits only last around 10-20 seconds! Feel free to ask us for a slo-motion video that we managed to record of this incredible bird during a recent visit!
Chance of Spotting*:
50%
*Skylof Guests, if spending an entire day on the rooftop and on the lookout
Keel-billed Toucan
The keel-billed toucan is a colorful and charismatic bird species found in the forests of Central and South America, including the Yucatan Peninsula. One of the most interesting facts about these toucans is their unique bill, which is one of the largest and most colorful bills in the bird world. The bill is made of a lightweight material called keratin and is used for a variety of tasks, including gathering fruit, preening, and defending their territory. Despite its large size, the toucan's bill is surprisingly light and well-balanced, allowing the bird to maneuver it with great precision.
If you're looking to spot a keel-billed toucan in the Yucatan region, there are a few tips you can follow. First, these birds are most active in the early morning and late afternoon when they are foraging for food. Look for them in the tree canopy, where they will be hopping from branch to branch in search of fruit and insects. You can also listen for their distinctive calls, which include a series of yelps, grunts, and croaks. Toucans are notoriously difficult to spot, so be patient and keep your eyes and ears open. You may need to spend some time in the forest, waiting for the right moment to catch a glimpse of these beautiful birds.
The Keel-Billed Toucan makes our list because we have seen a pair of them in the trees near the Infinity Pool. We caught them on video as they visited on April 21st & 22nd, 2021. for roughly 1 minute each day. We have only spotted them once since The Strelitzia Project launched in November 2020. Basically, if you see these, you are incredibly, incredibly lucky!
Chance of Spotting:
<5%
Tropical Mockingbird
The tropical mockingbird is a bird species found throughout the Yucatan Peninsula and other parts of Central and South America. One of the most interesting facts about these birds is their impressive vocal abilities. Tropical mockingbirds are known for their complex and varied songs, which can include imitations of other bird species, as well as sounds from the environment such as car alarms or human speech. Their vocalizations are so diverse that they have been compared to a living jukebox.
Another fascinating fact about tropical mockingbirds is their role in folklore and mythology. In some cultures, mockingbirds are believed to have special powers, such as the ability to ward off evil spirits or bring good luck. In Mexican folklore, mockingbirds are associated with love and romance and are said to sing sweetly to attract their mates. These beliefs and stories have helped to make mockingbirds a beloved and iconic species in the Yucatan region and beyond.
Tropical mockingbirds are highly adaptable birds that can thrive in a variety of habitats. They are commonly found in forests, grasslands, and urban areas, and are known for their ability to quickly adapt to changes in their environment. This flexibility has allowed them to expand their range and thrive in many different parts of the world.
If you're looking to spot a tropical mockingbird in the Yucatan region, there are a few tips you can follow. First, listen for their distinctive calls and songs. Tropical mockingbirds are highly vocal birds and can often be heard before they are seen. Look for them perched on a branch or on the ground, where they will be foraging for insects and other small prey. They are typically medium-sized birds with gray-brown feathers and a long, curved beak. Their tails are relatively long and often held upright when they are perched. With a little patience and a keen ear, you should be able to spot one of these fascinating birds in the Yucatan region.
Skyloft guests will likely find this mighty singer perched under or on the solar panels behind the perch. We hope you like his singing because he will do it for hours on end!
Chance of Spotting*:
80%
*For Skyloft guests, Strelitzia Studio guests will likely hear their song, but chances of seeing them are reduced.
