Midway between Belize City and Belmopan lies a bird watchers’ paradise; the Tropical Education Center. Also known as the Belize Zoo’s Lodge, the TEC boasts over 250 species of birds recorded, including a variety of resident and migratory birds. Both local birders and visitors are amazed and delighted to encounter our “feathered friends” at every turn, whether they’re out on the TEC trails, standing on the birding deck, or just relaxing in their rooms. Birds are always present in the wild habitat that the TEC is nestled so neatly into. Early morning alarms are the job of the Plain chachalacas and endangered Yellow-headed parrots. At night, nightjars serenade, and have even been joined by the elusive Stygian owl!
The TEC pond, always an oasis for turtles, birds, crocs, and fish, has also become a “heron hotspot.” Boat-billed, Little blue, and Bare-throated tiger herons regularly take up residence in the pond, and recently, we were amazed to discover a new visitor: the Agami heron! Arguably the rarest heron in Belize, this shy and beautiful bird usually occupies clean and quiet waterways, barely moving an inch all day once it’s found a comfortable spot, and so is often overlooked.
We have introduced countless TEC visitors to the wonders of nature through our “bird ambassadors.” Teachers, tour guides, and teenaged Summer campers have been immersed in the world of birds through education programs hosted at TEC. Equipped with binoculars and scopes, they learn fascinating things about the lives these important animals. Many birds are important seed dispersers and pollinators in our ecosystems. “Birding tourism” is also a rapidly growing field in Belize, attracting thousands of visitors, and providing income for tour guides and operators across the country. These visitors often arrive with their “bucket list of birds,” hoping to see a rare species that our country is home to. Some of them can be found right at the TEC, a highly recommended destination for all!