Bird watching on Bonaire

Bird enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy on Bonaire. Anyone bringing binoculars to the diving island will be richly rewarded. Around 220 different bird species can be found on Bonaire. These species can be divided into three groups: birds that permanently reside on the island, birds that spend the winter in Divers Paradise, and birds that make a brief stopover to rest and recover.

We saw this beautiful hummingbird in the garden of the Chogogo Dive & Beach Resort Bonaire.

Caribbean Flamingo

The first encounter with a flamingo when visiting Bonaire for the first time is an unforgettable moment. The Caribbean flamingo is a stunning and unique bird, rightfully the national symbol of the island. Every time we see this magnificent bird, we are amazed all over again.

Thousands of flamingos live on the island, and during the breeding season, their numbers exceed 10,000. Unfortunately, only four breeding colonies remain in the Caribbean. Flamingos thrive on Bonaire—so much so that some even lay two eggs per year, something that does not happen anywhere else in the world.

We came across these flamingos a little past the lighthouse on Bonaire. A beautiful sight to see!

Where can you spot the Caribbean flamingo?

Head to Goto Lake or Pekelmeer. There’s a very high chance you’ll see them at these locations. You might also spot them at some of the smaller salt lakes. We once saw a large group of Caribbean flamingos flying by while exploring the island by car—it was an incredible experience!

Yellow-Shouldered Amazon

The yellow-shouldered Amazon (lora) is a rare and unique parrot species that fortunately still exists on Bonaire. On January 30, 2021, a total of 995 yellow-shouldered Amazons were counted on the island, which is significantly fewer than in 2020, when 1,228 loras were recorded.

The lora is a very rare bird species. Photo: Frank van der Mijn.

Magnificent Frigatebird

The magnificent frigatebird has an impressive wingspan of about 6.5 feet, making it the largest bird on Bonaire. With exceptional endurance, it can soar through the air for long periods without effort. We once spotted this enormous bird near Sorobon Beach, it felt like stepping onto the set of Jurassic Park! The frigatebird has a prehistoric appearance, making it a fascinating sight to witness in action.

Biologists

Bonaire is home to several biologists, including Jenny Ligon, and other experts who have studied the island’s bird species extensively. These specialists are highly knowledgeable and available for guided birdwatching tours for enthusiasts.

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Also read:

• The stunning wildlife of Bonaire!

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