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| Audouin's Gull, a new species for Barbados in 2024 |
As my ebird checklist rolled over to zero signaling the start of another year, I could not help but reminisce on an exciting year of birding and bird photography. I saw 220 species of birds in three countries, a new personal record for birds seen in one year. Thirty-four lifers, most of which were recorded on a trip to Canada in August -September, and a new species for the island, an Audouin's Gull (Ichthyaetus audouinii), my seventh such finding.It was one of those banner years for birding in Barbados! Not only did we witness an impressive 122 species recorded, but we also saw a significant increase in the number of birders actively exploring the island, most of whom were visitors.
Personally, I observed 109 species, adding 7 exciting lifers to my list, including several rare and even mega-rare sightings. Sharing the knowledge I acquired on my birding journey with others has been a gratifying part of my passion. Last year, I had the privilege of leading three enjoyable field trips: one with ecology students at the University of the West Indies and two with students from McGill University. Additionally, I had the honor of working with a group of young biologists as they conducted a brief study on the Eurasian Collared Dove. I was incredibly impressed with their insightful presentations of their findings.
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| Common Loon |
My trip to Canada was a resounding success! I finally crossed the
Common Loon (
Gavia immer) off of my bucketlist of must-see birds and, a long-awaited addition to my life list. While I narrowly missed another bucketlist bird a
Sandhill Crane (
Antigone canadensis), I was rewarded with another magnificent member of the crane family
Whooping Crane (
Grus americana).
The return journey home from Canada took an unexpected turn when Air Canada rerouted us through Grenada, providing an impromptu four-hour stopover. I seized the opportunity to do some quick birding at the airport and was delighted to add a Yellow-bellied Seedeater (Sporophila nigricollis) to my life list.
Here is a breakdown of my 2024 static:
My Goals 2025
With several local birders embarking on a big year, I considered joining in and even started. However, my first chase to register a yearbird reminded me why I decided against it—birding becomes more about ticking boxes than truly enjoying the birds. So, no big year for me, but I will support those who are participating. This year, I want to focus more on my photography. Although I have said this at the start of the past two to three years, I really mean it this year. Additionally, I hope to continue sharing my knowledge with others and to be a mentor for new birders and guides trained by Birds Caribbean last year. While no overseas trips are planned at the moment (though anything is possible!), I'm excited to see what the year brings.
My goal for 2025 is simple:
- Prioritize photography: Capture stunning images of the birds I encounter. keep an eye on this IG space
- Expand my life list: Add at least 3 new species to my list.
- Share my passion: Continue to share my knowledge and experience with fellow birders.
- Embrace the journey: Focus on enjoying the process of birding and appreciating each encounter.
I hope you continue to follow this blog and its sister blog, The Birds of Barbados. Here's to a wonderful and bird-filled 2025 for all of us!
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