birding...

Rose-breasted Grosbeak Pheucticus ludovicianus ©Steve Blain http://www.steveblain.co.uk

The Commonwealth of Dominica (pronounced Domineeca) is not to be confused with the Dominican Republic. It lies between the French Islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique in the Caribbean`s eastern chain of Windward Islands. It acquired independence from the United Kingdom in 1978. The main language is English, though locals speak a variety of French. Luscious vegetation and inherent forest blanket the island`s towering territory, a few peaks of which go beyond 4,000 feet in height, while 365 rivers and streams meander their way through ravines and gorges to gush over many waterfalls, producing the island`s cooling system and allowing many opportunities to take an exhilarating dip in clear clean waters. Tree ferns, orchids, heliconia and anthurium lilies embellish the forest floor while 175 species of birds, green iguanas, geckoes, tree lizards, agouti, manicou, magnificent butterflies and a vast array of picturesque flora can be enjoyed throughout an island where nature trails are abundant.

Many of the countries 75,000 inhabitants farm bananas, citrus and other tropical fruit on the beautiful mountain banks. Crime is scarce and should not discourage one`s sense of freedom and absolute enjoyment. There are no large resorts in Dominica. The largest hotel has only 53 rooms, and is located in the capital city of Roseau.

Dominica is a very exciting place for the bird watcher not only because for its size and position it has a comparatively rich avifauna, but also because it is a place where anything can turn up, much of the island being explored by very few ornithologists. Within an area of less then 800 square kilometres lies a rich variety of habitat - from cloud forest and Montane thicket through tall strands of rain forest to drier scrubbier woodland, and interspersed amongst these are lakes, rock canyons, rivers and water falls, plantations and gardens. The perimeter of the island has stunning sea cliffs between secluded coves and sandy beaches, estuaries, as well as some marshes and swamps. There are few places in the world where one can be clambering in the clouds over an elfin woodland canopy watching blue-headed hummingbirds and plumbeous warblers, then, an hour after be deep within rain forest amongst imperial and red-necked parrots, and an hour after that down at sea level watching ducks, herons, and egrets on the edge of a densely vegetated swamp, or frigate birds, boobies and terns over the Caribbean Sea.

It is perfectly possible to see within a single day all the species of island and Lesser Antillean regional endemics which occur in Dominica, although much more satisfaction will come from spreading this over a longer period, mixing those sightings with observations of other typical avian representatives of the different habitats. During every month of the year, there will be at least some birds visiting Dominica on migration, so one can never predict what unusual species might be seen. The number of known bird species to be seen in Dominica during the various seasons of the year totals 175, including 4 types of native hummingbird. Whether is is the Blue-hooded Euphonia, Mountain Whistler, Broad-winged Hawk or the two native parrot species you wish to see, local guides know just where to find them.

There are a great many choices of prime locations throughout the island, but one top spot is mentioned below.