The Wildlife In Cuba - Birdwatching And The Island's Indigenous Land Mammals

The Caribbean is known for its wildlife, and naturally Cuba is no exception. However, if you don't know what you're looking for, you can miss an awful lot - especially with the world's smallest humming bird, and a frog smaller than a penny are endemic to the island! Here's a guide to the animals of Cuba that you should look out for on your visit to the island.

Firstly, birdwatching in Cuba is reason to visit in itself, and the Caribbean's avian life is both graceful and colourful. Here are some of the more memorable birds you might see amidst Cuba's wildlife:

The Cuban Trogan

Known as Cuba's national bird, because it shares the same colours as the Cuban flag - blue, red and white. Found in forests near streams, it is notable for its dark green head and wings, bright red belly and white chest. They feed on insects, fruits and by hovering on flowers.

Bee Hummingbird

The world's smallest bird is endemic to the island, and a highlight of Cuba's birdwatching scene. Growing to a maximum length of 2.25 inches, it's typically found in valleys, gardens and forests but has been labelled as 'threatened' since 2000 due to a loss of its natural habitats.

Cuban Finch

Another small species, the Cuban Finch is 3 and a half inches of impressive energy! Nesting in shrubs, it is best known for its beautiful yellow head, which males can fluff up to attract mates!

Cuban Parakeet

The Cuban Parakeet, once a common sight for those birdwatching in Cuba has now become something of a rarity thanks to destruction of habitat and trapping, as it was regarded as a crop pest.

Those birdwatching in Cuba will likely find it in grasslands with palms, woodland edges and in undisturbed forests. You should be able to spot it easily enough - it is bright green with red spots on the head, neck and breast with red on the bend of the wing, and a white band of flesh around the eyes.

Cuban Kite

In a distressingly familiar theme, the beautiful Cuba Kite is classified as 'critically endangered' due to habitat loss. In fact, it was thought extinct until 3 Cuban Kites were found on the east of the island.

The bird of prey lives in heavily forested land, and is thought to feed mainly on snails.

Moving away from the opportunities for birdwatching that Cuba offers, the wildlife of the island is equally impressive, though sadly in many cases the animals of Cuba are equally endangered.

Cuban Hutia

The Cuban Hutia is the largest endemic land animal that Cuba has to offer, growing on average to be around 60 centimetres in length. If you're looking to catch a sight of one of these during your Cuban travel, you're best off looking around the forests and rocky areas of the island, where you may spy the animal going about its daily business. It's an omnivore and eats a combination of fruits, small reptiles, small mammals and leaves.

Cuban Solenodon

This insectivore was, like the Cuban Kite, once thought to be extinct, but has now been 'upgraded' to endangered status. You are unlikely to spy this sample of Cuba's wildlife by chance, as it is largely nocturnal, and spends its days hiding in trees and under rocks, mainly in forests and thick shrub habitats.

Cuban Boa

Listed as near threatened, those with a fear of snakes shouldn't worry about running into one of these by chance! Also known as the Cuban Tree boa, thanks to the amount of time it spends up in trees, those looking to see one in the wildlife of Cuba are best of searching in woodland and rocky habitats.

Cuban Treefrog

Also up in the trees (unsurprisingly) is the Cuban Treefrog. If you're hoping to catch sight of one amongst the Cuban wildlife, you will need to be around at night, when it is active. It's carnivorous, and will eat pretty much anything it can catch, but even though it's the largest species of treefrog in North America, that doesn't extend to humans!

Monte Iberia Dwarf Eleuth

The text for its name in this article actually takes up more space than the frog itself! Growing to just 0.8mm long, you could fit 2-3 of these endangered frogs on a single penny piece. It's small size and endangered status isn't the only reason you're unlikely to spy one on holiday - they're also nocturnal, finding cover in the daytime.

The animals of Cuba are simply breathtaking, and the endangered nature of many of the creatures means that seeing some of the species is likely a once in a lifetime experience. Whether you're in Cuba for birdwatching, or simply taking in the history, an exploration of the wildlife is a fascinating way to spend a few days.

Emma Lelliott is the general manager of Captivating Cuba, an independent Cuba holiday specialist. With offices in Havana and the UK, Captivating Cuba can design tailor made Cuba bird watching holidays to ensure you see the fascinating avian life in their amazing natural habitat.

10 Top Tips For Beginners to Birdwatching

Birdwatching is a wonderful pastime that can be enjoyed by all the family. It is low cost and gives you the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. If you enjoy watching wildlife programs on television, then why not go out into the countryside and experiencing the fascinating world of birds for yourself.

Here are ten tips to help you get started with birdwatching:

1. Purchase a good field guide.

Don't buy the encyclopedia of birds in hardback as you will need to carry the field guide with you. A pocket sized book that identifies all the main species and has good illustrations is ideal. When joining the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) you can receive an excellent field guide as a free gift.

2. Wear camouflage clothing.

Wear clothing that match your environment. An orange jacket in a green field is not a good idea. Try to avoid materials that make a load rustling noise. When approaching your target make use of natural features such as trees and keep low.

3. Get a good pair of binoculars.

Keep your binoculars around your neck as it is difficult to remove binoculars quickly from a case without disturbing a bird. Don't allow them to swing from your hand as they can soon get damaged.

4. Keep your eyes on the bird.

Don't look down when you have spotted a bird. Keep looking at it and raise the binoculars to your eyes. It is easy to loose sight of your target if you look away, especially if the bird is in flight.

5. Take a notebook with you.

Use the notebook to record the bird's size, shape, colour and markings. Focus on the beak and tail shape. These notes can then be used to identify the bird in your field guide, after it has flown away.

6. Learn to recognise bird calls and the tracks they leave in sand or mud.

You will probably hear the bird before seeing it so being able to recognise its call is a great help. Also the tracks the bird leaves in wet sand or mud will give you a good clue to its identity.

7. Put a bird feeder up in your garden.

It will attract a wide variety of birds to your garden and is good for identification practice from the comfort of your armchair.

8. Birdwatch early in the morning or at dusk.

These are the best times to watch birds. Some birds, such as starlings, gather in large numbers when returning home to roost. It is a spectacular display.

9. Use a telescope for long range viewing

The enhanced magnification of a telescope is a great help if viewing birds at a long distance. You will need a tripod to keep the telescope steady. Again think lightweight when choosing your equipment. It may need to be carried a long way to your birdwatching location.

10. Join the RSPB [http://www.joinrspb.com].

Members have access to over 100 nature reserves maintained by the RSPB. You will also receive a quarterly magazine packed full of advice and interesting features. Most importantly you will be helping the RSPB protect endangered birds and habitats for future generations to enjoy.

Whether searching for the rare Golden Eagle, watching Red Kite in Wales or enjoying the company of a Red Robin while doing the gardening, birdwatching is a very rewarding activity. So pick up your binoculars, grab a notebook and head out into the countryside. It's a great day out and you never know what you might find.

James Todman is a freelance web content editor and keen supporter of the RSPB.

A Birdwatching Caribbean Cruise is the Ideal Way to Still Enjoy Your Passion

If you are an avid bird watcher and decide to take a Caribbean cruise, then you can enjoy two pleasures at the same time. This is because not only are there many types of bird species for you to see in the Caribbean, there are also many very rare types of bird species, that you will never have chance to see anywhere else in the world.

Here are some of the places you may wish to visit on your cruise.

The Trinidad Asa Wright Nature Center. Is situated ten miles north of the town of Arima on Blanchisseuse Road. It is a wonderful location for birdwatching, with over 200 acres of rain forest. You can take a walk here on the many forest trials and you will be able to observe many different bird species. If you can make the time, i would try to spend at least 2 to 3 days here as it is an ideal place to enjoy your passion for birds.

The Bubali Pond in Aruba. Is on the north side of eagle beach and just south of De Olde Molen. You can expect to see brown pelicans here in large groups as well as the Black crowned Night Herons. It is best to do your birdwatching here at dusk or dawn.

In Aruba's Spanish Lagoon. You will have the chance to observe many different species of birds, such as, brown pelicans, egrets, herons and frigates. Do not be at all surprised if you also see large green and yellow parakeets that are twice the size of those you would see in a pet store at home. These birds are mostly seen at sunset.

The Barbuda Frigate Bird Sanctuary. Is a secluded location, this is because the only way to get there is by boat. The use of a birdwatching guide is recommended here. When you get to this location you will be able to see thousands of Fregata Magnificens or man of war birds. The best time to visit here is during the breeding season as you will get to see over 170 species of birds living together.

If your birdwatching Caribbean cruise makes a stop in Jamaica, you should take the time to visit the Rockland's Bird Sanctuary. Here is a once in a lifetime opportunity for any bird watcher to observe 289 different bird species of which 28 are endemic and 6 have just been introduced. There are also 10 bird species on the endangered list which includes the Black billed and Yellow billed parrots.

There is an entrance fee charged at this sanctuary and you can also pay extra for a guided tour, which is recommended that you do so. Here, you will get to see hummingbirds, Red billed Streamertails, Jamaican Mango, Black and Yellow faced Grassquits as well as their relative the Orangequits. All these species of birds you will be able to hand feed, if you wish to.

These places are just a few that you can visit while you are on a Caribbean cruise. There are many more locations available to you and all you need to do is search the internet to fine them.

The Caribbean cruise packages that are being offered do not come with birdwatching tours, but once your cruise liner docks at port, you can sign up for one as they are readily available to you at many locations. So who said you can not enjoy two pleasures at the same time?

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Birdwatching For Beginners - Where to Find the Birds

The fascinating hobby of birdwatching can take you into a variety of beautiful, natural settings. As a longtime birdwatcher, I've often found myself drawn into such a blissful state while scanning the lovely scenery, that I almost forget to look for birds!

Buy yourself a field guide to the birds of your area and decide what kind of birds you wish to see. You'll find that the hobby of birdwatching encourages you to build up a Life List, which is a list of all the birds that you have seen. Various habitats provide different opportunities for birdwatching.

A woodland setting allows you to see sparrows, warblers. Woodpeckers, and songbirds. In spring and fall, visit forested areas for migratory warblers and songbirds. Summer offers a view of nesting birds, though the birds may be harder to see due to the foliage.

Meadows provide an open area for viewing hawks, vultures, larks, and many other birds in flight. The flora and insects in open fields attract a variety of birds. In addition, a meadow offers a wide field of view.

Birdwatching can be exciting when you visit wetlands because many of the birds you'll see in the marshes are large, dramatic creatures that are easy to spot. Go birdwatching in or at the edge of a wetland area if you want to see herons, egrets, rails, ducks, and eagles.

Large stretches of open water not only provide you with beautiful scenery, but a vast array of birding opportunities. Gulls, terns, pelicans, and sandpipers are fun to watch. On ocean beaches, you can often see pelagic birds in the winder. Pelagic birds spend all or most of their lives on or above open water and rarely set foot on land. You can watch the amazing flights of gannets from your beachfront balcony.

And don't forget one of the best places to birdwatch - your own back yard. Provide food and water to attract a wide variety of birds that you can view from your window. Sparrows, cardinals, mockingbirds, robins, finches, chickadees, nuthatches, and smaller woodpeckers are fond of back yard bird feeders.

Learn more about how to attract birds to your yard. This site contains photos, videos, links, and tons of information on how to transform your back yard into a bird sanctuary - http://hubpages.com/hub/BackYardBirdSanctuary---AttractBirds-oYourYard.

If you are thinking about taking up the hobby of birdwatching, this site provides tons of info, links, pictures, and videos to get you started -http://hubpages.com/hub/BirdWatching---ABeginersGuidetoBirdWatching.

Birdwatching Optics - The Best Way to Find Them

Birdwatching is a passion and starts with the simple idea of observing the different kinds of species of birds. But as the years have progressed and technology develops, more and more bird watching optics have become available on the market and your goal should be to find which one is the best to suit your needs.

If you would like know how a person normally starts to become an avid bird watcher, first, they have a love for nature and are curious about birds, so much so, that they would go out of their way to be able to see some and then see some more until the hobby becomes a passion in there life.

You can start in your own backyard, observing the birds that fly through your garden. Then you could start feeding the birds so that they would stay longer, thus, giving you more time to observe them. An ideal way to do this is with the use of bird feeders and bird baths. To protect the welfare of the birds, you could also plant trees as well as shrubs and also this provides excellent nesting areas.

Now that you already have a passion for bird watching, you should look in to the optics that are available in to days market. These optics will enhance your watching experience, you will also see the birds more clearly. Also this will take your observing towards the scientific route.

Binoculars are usually the first item that birders invest in. The more expensive ones, of course, are better. Usually these come with better vision, precise configuration and alignment and easy to navigate controls, which are ideal for the beginner

With so many types available on the market these days, you could well find yourself confused about what can be the right purchase for you. If you find yourself in this dilemma, all you got to do is ask. Ask people with more experience and who have already been birdwatching for longer than you. If you can not find somebody, then search the internet. The internet you will find has all the information you need to know about birding and bird watching and the optics that you must have in order to become successful with your hobby.

You should look closely at the features of the binoculars before you purchase a pair of them. Choose the right weight by holding them and feel if you are comfortable doing so. Remember that once you have purchased them, you will be holding them most of the time. Also, you should see through them while you are still in the store to know if they are perfect fit for your eyes. Look at the lenses closely, navigate through the controls. You could also ask what are the accessories are available. This way, birding would be more fun now that you have a new pair of binoculars with you.

The scopes are normally for advanced users. They are is purchased with a tripod. The lenses would be your utmost concern when it comes to this. Inspect those closely before you buy one, as they are the most important aspect of these.

There are a lot of other optics available to you, that you could try once you have mastered the use of binoculars and scopes. It varies from night vision, infrared, cameras to photograph or record your observations. You could even use video among the many other choices open to you.

Birdwatching optics are there to help you find the right view and enhance your watching experience. When you have purchased your optics, all you need to be mindful about is where you could find the right spot to use them.

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Birdwatching in Maine is Highly Recommended

Birdwatching has now grown an extremely popular pursuit. There are numerous clubs and organizations that you are able to join and one spot where you can go to see many various species of birds is in Maine.

One of your first stops could be by the great North Woods region where you will be able to see the Boreal Chickadees, Gray Jays, Olive-sided Flycatchers and the Spruce Grouse.

If you take the time to travel by Maine's Atlantic coast, you can see hundreds of puffins that reside on Machias Seal Island. It is best to hire a tour guide here, then when you disembark from your boat you will be able to get within 4 feet of these birds. If you are able visit here during the migration season, then you will be able to see numerous migrating Arctic Terns.

Another recommended place to see, is Bangor this is considered to be the best birding place in Maine. A good example of this, is the Sunkhaze Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. Here you can see the Eastern Phoebes, the Pine and Palm Warblers as well as the Yellow bellied Sapsuckers. These species of birds can as well be observed also in other parks in this area and on the riversides.

There is as well the Scarborough Marsh that happens to be a 3100 acre estuary and used by numerous birds as a breeding, feeding and nesting ground. You will surely get to watch a lot of shore birds here nourishing in the marsh.

Other birds that you will see in Maine include the Bald Eagle, Barn Swallows, Black Ducks, the Canadian geese, Common loons, Flickers, Golden eye Ducks, Grosbeaks, Hummingbirds, Kingfishers, Mergansers, Ornomants, Seagulls and Woodpeckers.

Before you go off birdwatching in Maine, make certain you have all your equipment with you including a map, so you know how to find your way back If you get lost. If possible, take a few photographs so you can share this with others when you get back home.

You can even report what birds you have watched and submit these photos online, because although many species are common in these parts, there are some rare finds that will for certain be enjoyed by fellow birdwatchers.

Acadia National Park is another reputable spot to go birdwatching. According to the up-to-date figures by National Park Service, there are 338 bird species here, that have been registered here. Through the years, this number has developed and if your lucky, you might just encounter one of 23 species of warblers that breed in this park.

Because this is such a seclude location, other birds have also used this as their nesting habitat namely they are Herons, Harlequin Ducks and Purple Sandpipers.

If you make a chance, do not forget to see the Thorncrag Nature Sanctuary in Lewiston. This is a 357 acre wildlife preserve that overlooks the city, bordered on three sides by both suburban and urban development. This spot is used for schools and professionals for research, which makes this open to anyone who wants to be close to nature.

If you would care more information about birdwatching in Maine, you can get in contact with the Audubon Chapters in Maine, the Mid Coast Audubon Society, the York County Audubon Society, the Nature Conservancy or the Stanton Bird Club. These societies are always on the lookout for potential new members that share the same captivation with our feathered friends. All these clubs or societies are heavily in to conservation and will as well do whatsoever it requires to protect those bird species that are endangered.

This article was written by Greg F Williams. Who has been a avid Birdwatcher for thirty years. For more Free useful Birdwatching and Birding tips be try visiting Birdwatching Tips [http://www.freebirdwatchingtips.com/]. A popular website that provides Birdwatching and Birding advice and resources to include information on Basic Birdwatching Apparel [http://www.freebirdwatchingtips.com/basic-bird-watching-apparel.php].

Birdwatching Or Birding - Which One is a Hobby With a Cause?

Birder's have long contested birdwatching as a hobby, by saying the two are completely different. Birdwatching is a hobby that is done as an activity during recreation, but birder's are more intense and dedicated to there cause.

Birder's

Whether it be in the United States or any where else in the world, what birder's are saying is what they do so is far removed from just a pastime or a relaxation thing. For them they do it to study not only the species of birds but also their patterns of migration. they do not base there research on just observations, and they always invest in the most modern up to date optical equipment to strengthen their claims.

They no not normally visit popular birdwatching sites, what birder's are looking for is new and unexplored sites, this way they hope to find more new information. They budget for there travel and it does matter how far it may take them to gain fresh new knowledge about there passion birds.

Birdwatchers

These people go birdwatching only to observe with there eyes or a pair of binoculars and are not normally in to the technology side of things. It would not bother them if the equipment they use is the most modern or up to date available to them on the market. What is important to birdwatchers is the sense of fulfillment they get from what they are doing. There main aim is to relax, see the birds and enjoy the sights.

For birdwatchers it will not matter to them where they observe birds. To them there own garden is good enough for them, or they even may travel to a nature reserve close to them. These people have a love for birds but do not wish to go any further with there study of birds than just watching them

The Right Time

Birdwatching in country's that have four season is normally most active in the spring and fall migrations. During this time, there are a large amount of birds to be seen. This is because the birds are relocating northbound or southbound in trying to find nesting sites.

The best time to do any observing is early morning when the birds are looking for food. Starting early in the morning also gives you a longer day to do to any observing.

Seawatching

Birdwatching of this type is all about people who go near coastal areas to do there observing. It can also be done when one is aboard a seagoing vessel. The birds that can be observed from such are called the pelagic kind. The pelagic species of birds are normally just observed in coastal areas.

The Proper Etiquette

Whether you be a bird watcher or a birder, it should always be your main priority to look out for the wellbeing of the birds, also it is good practice to take some form of notes on your observations. You you always protect the environment so any natural habitat will not be harmed. Also when you use any of the latest technology that is available too you, then you will need to make sure it will not affect the birds in a negative manner.

Birdwatching may just be a hobby to some people, but to most it is a hobby that must be done with passion and concern about the birds and their welfare.

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Birdwatching For Family Learning

Families can turn their birdwatching into meaningful learning and even research through national events like Project FeederWatch and the Great Backyard Bird Count. Facilitated by organizations like the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the Audubon Society, these projects involve volunteers across the nation helping scientists monitor bird life in North America. The final result is a comprehensive report and publication.

Annual counts usually take place from November through early April. Registration begins in the springtime for the following year, and continues for the next twelve months. Volunteer birdwatchers count the total number of birds in the area at a single time to avoid counting a single bird more than once. This also alleviates the need for constant monitoring of a bird feeder or yard.

The cost of participation is less than twenty dollars and covers the bulk of the project's cost. In addition, all participants receive a kit containing a poster for identifying birds, a wall calendar, a guide to proper bird feeding, a form for counting, and directions for using these items. U.S. residents are also given an annual subscription to the respective organization's newsletter.

Data collected in these projects is featured in science publications and frequently used by ornithologists and birdwatchers throughout North America. The count provides a real opportunity to contribute to the well-being and research of birds that share our habitat. Another benefit is finding previously unknown birds in the neighborhood.

The bird count is open to every type of individual and group. Currently it includes people of all skill levels and backgrounds: Classrooms, individuals, children, bird clubs, nature centers, youth groups, and retired persons. The count provides great learning opportunities for families in particular and can be a stepping stone for building an appreciation for birds.

Participants are free to choose how much time they invest. Organizers of the projects provide many options for when and how long to count birds. As the main approach is to provide numbers for a slice of time, schedules set to accommodate short attention spans can still provide meaningful results.

Picking a spot to count birds is up to the discretion of participants. Areas of the yard that include a birdhouse or bird feeder are a logical choice, but by no means the rule. Those who love to watch birds will have a good idea of where to find them. Instructions provided by the projects will also include guidelines on how to identify good areas for counting.

Taking part in a national bird count for research is a win-win for those with a love of birdwatching. Families can admire these beautiful creatures while providing a meaningful contribution to their well-being. The birding tools provided are also worth the effort and can be a part of future family learning projects.

To treat your wild birds to a bird feeder or birdhouse, point your browser to http://www.birdhousebirdfeeder.com

Families And Birdwatching - Perfect Together

Worried about how much time your child spends in front of the computer and TV? Wondering how you can entice them to get outside once in a while? Consider a family birdwatching outing - a great way to get outdoors, learn about nature, have a fun day, and maybe even develop a new shared passion!

Few realize this, but birdwatching is America's number one sport, with over 51.3 MILLION participants, according to the US Fish & Wildlife Service. Many birders are passionate fans, people who get estatic over seeing an unusual specimen, but the majority of birders are regular folks who just love birds and being outside.

If you've never been out birdwatching before, you're in for a treat. Find yourself a wooded park, equip everyone with inexpensive binoculars (sharing is no fun - by the time you switch who has them, the target has often flow away), and get a basic field guide to the birds of your region. Take a notepad along, and start what is known as a "lifelist". This is simply a list of birds you have seen and identified, usually along with the date and location of the sighting. Kids love this - everytime they see a new bird they get to add it to the list, making each new sighting a thrill.

There are a few basic guidelines to follow when birding:

1 - don't take the dog - the noise will scare away most of your chance of seeing anything interesting

2 - do talk quietly, for the same reason

3 - do take binoculars, an essential piece of equipment

4 - do take a field guide so you can identify the birds you spot

5 - do encourage everyone to start and maintain a lifelist - kids will like putting this onto a computer, where they can easily sort to see if a bird is new on their list

6 - if you have a backyard, do put out feeders and birdhouses - you can see some great birds without even leaving the house!

7 - do use your ears - when you listen, you'll be able to spot birds you wouldn't have otherwise noticed

8 - do encourage your kids to learn more about birds online - there are wonderful sites to help identify birds or just play bird games

9 - do read books on bird behaviors together - birds are fascinating creatures, and the more you discover about them the more fun birdwatching becomes

10 - do go out in the winter and early spring - you may have to bundle up, but without leaves on the trees you can see the birds much more easily

Birdwatching is an active, educational, sport that gets more enjoyable as you learn about it. Kids and adults alike get a real thrill out of adding a new sighting to their lifelists. So grab your binoculars, field guide and notebook, take your family, and go spot some birds!

Carol Miller is an internet author, entrepreneur and avid birder. You can find great stuff for kids, including young reader field guides bird books, puzzles, facts and games at her website, [http://www.BirdingResources.com]. Be sure to sign up for the free Birding Event Notifier and find out what's happening in the wild bird world!

Birdwatching in Suffolk - A Guide to Reserves and Hides For Bird Watchers

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Birdwatching in Suffolk is a joy as the landscape of the county is diverse and varied, and so is the range of wildlife that inhabit it. Avid birdwatchers and novices alike can enjoy a coastal walk and the possibility of sighting a Marsh Harrier or Avocet, or head north to the southern edge of the Broads where you can catch birds on migration taking a break for some bathing.

Inland are the reserves of the Suffolk Wildlife Trust, the Royal Society for Protection of Birds, and English Nature, many of which have dedicated hides, and all of which boast a variety of bird spotting opportunities.

Here are a collection of the primary birdwatching sites in Suffolk. Where possible both directions and the Ordinance Survey Grid References have been included. For reference, the organization which maintains the sites is located in parenthesis next to the site itself. Happy birdwatching!

Alton Water (Anglian Water)

Grid Ref: TM1436

Alton Water, run by Anglian Water and coordinated with a group of local volunteers, has a three mile nature trail on the South shore which includes woodland, wildflower meadow, and a bird hide where you can view a wide range of wildlife both on and around the water. The North shore has another bird hide overlooking the a raft on the water which is a breeding ground for great crested grebes and terns in the summer. Alton Water is situated 5 miles south of Ipswich and the main car park at Stutton is on the B1080 which can be approached from the A137 from Ipswich to Manningtree.

Benacre Broad (English Nature)

Land ranger Map 156 Grid Ref TM 530830.

Benacre Broad is located halfway between Lowestoft and Southwold. Formerly the site of peat diggings in the 1700's, this is now a popular spot for Wheatears, Meadow Pipits, and Linnets. If you head inward to the rougher denes and the West Kessingland Levels, you may spot short eared Owls, Kestrel, Hen and Marsh Harriers, and wintering Geese. Nearby River Hundred by the Benacre sluice is a great place to view winter Duck and autumn waders.

Blyth Estuary (English Nature)

Grid Ref: TM4675

A great place to see avocet, black tailed godwit, bittern, marsh harrier, and woodlark, the Blyth Estuary is located near the Walberswick, and is maintained by English Nature. It is open year round, and features a public footpath and bird hide. The estuary also features rare aquatic plants such as frog-bit and great bladderwort, which thrive in the estuary's dykes; nearby meadows are home to marsh orchid, bog bean, as well as many sedges and rushes.

Dunwich Heath (National Trust)

Grid Ref: TM4768

Signposted off the A12, this site is located 2 miles south of Dunwich Village, 7 minutes north of Aldeburgh. It is part of the Dunwich Heath is a Heathland Conservation area, being one of the few remaining areas of ancient Sandlings heaths in East Anglia. It also features a number of great walks with amazing views, and the chance to spot Avocets, bearded tits, nightingale, and resident Dartford warblers. Admission is free, and for hours and further details, please telephone 01263 733 471

Havergate Island (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) RSPB

Havergate Island - a small island in the River Ore, which is accessible by boat from Orford Quay (B1084, B1078 to Orford) - is an important breeding place for common terns and avocets. This bird reserve also features 8 hides, where during the Spring and Autumn season a fantastic array of wading birds can be seen. Discounts for RSPB members, and the admission charge also includes the cost of boat transport.

Lackford Wildfowl Reserve (Suffolk Wildlife Trust)

Grid Ref: TL 803708

Originally created from former gravel pits, the Lackford Lakes are a must visit for birdwatchers in Suffolk. Rarities like black nested Grebes can be viewed along with osprey, buzzrd, and sparrowhawk. Summer brings sand martin, swallows, and kingfisher, and in the winter gull roost and redshank nest in the area. Migrant birds are regulars here-look out for black tern and little egret during migrations. Lackford Lakes boasts good walking conditions, wheelchair accessible hides, and a year-round opening. Telephone 01284 728 706

Landguard(Suffolk Wildlife Trust)

Grid Ref: TM285320.

For a more guided birdwatching experience, Landguard offers guided visits arranged with a Ranger. This reserve in the south of Suffolk is an excellent place to catch migrant birds, little tern, black redstart, and Weatear. South of Felixstowe, Landguard is also home to the Landguard Conservation Trust, a volunteer organisation and ringing station which is makes it one of the best recorded sites in Britain. Admission is free, and you can telephone 01394 673 782 to arrange a guided visit.

Minismere (RSPB)

Grid Ref:TM4766

Located off the B1125, and easily reachable from the A12, this famous RSPB reserve on the coast near Aldeburgh is a fantastic reserve with a variety of habitats. With woodlands, marshes, heath, and beach all within the same area, birdwatchers can expect a huge variety of different birds with over three hundred species in the area's checklist. Be sure to look out for avocet, bearded tit, bittern, and marsh harrier. Minismere is free to RSPB members, and has a large visitor centre, shop, and a tea room for the weary watcher. Please telephone 10603 661 662 for more details.

North Warren (RSPB)

Grid Ref: TM4559

Located between Thorpeness and and Aldeburgh on the Coast Road, North Warren varies between grazing marshes, reedbeds, heathland and woodland. During the winter months it is home to thousands of wildfowl, and in the summer is a fantastic place for birdwatchers to observe breeding bitterns, marsh harriers, nightjars, woodlarks, and nightengales. Admission is free, and there are four miles of well-maintained public footpaths throughout the warren. North Warren can be accessed by train from the Saxmundham station. Telephone 01728 688 481 for more information.

Orford Nest

Grid Ref: TM4549

Orford Nest, a secret military testing site from the first World War, is now the home to the largest vegetated shingle spit in Europe. It contains a variety of habitats which act as breeding sites for migrant birds, making Orford Nest a great place for birdwatching and military historians alike. Reachable from the B1078 and B1084, it can only be accessed from Orford Quay. There is a charge for admission, please call 01263 733 471

Sizewell Belts (SWT)

Grid Ref: TM 454638

Primarily known for it's amazing assortment of wildflowers, birdwatchers can get a glimpse of kingfisher, water rain, and barn owl, as well as bittern and the flighty bearded tit. With marsh, reedbed, and wet woodland next to heathland and beach, Sizewell Belts offers many types of terrain. Visiting birds like wigeon, snipe, and shoveler are attracted to the flooded marshes during the winter. The best time to visit is May through July, and while dogs are not allowed, there is full wheelchair access to the Woodlands. This site is maintained by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust.

Trimley Marshes (SWT)

Grid Ref: TM 260352

This fantastic wetland reserve is created almost entirely from arable land alongside the river Orwell, and is a habitat managed primarily for birds and birdwatching. The wet meadows are grazed by cattle, sheep, and wigeon and geese during the winter months. Wet conditions are maintained by a system of sluices, meaning perfect conditions for wintering wildfowl and breeding waders such as redshank, avocet, oystercatcher, and black-tailed godwit. The lagoon and islands provide a habitat for plover, duck, sandpiper, and greenshank. Trimley Marshes is located off the A45 near Felixstowe. Admission is free, and you can telephone 01473 710 032 for more information.

Walberswick (English Nature)

Grid Ref: TM4973

Walberswick features shingle beaches, inter-tidal mud flats, grazing and coasatal marshes, heathland and woodland. It's accessible from many points, and has scores of footpaths. Over 280 bird species have been recorded, including bittern, marsh harrier, and nightjar. English Nature manages the nature reserve and current conservation work includes clearing the heathland of scrub and bracken to maintain healthy populations of birds, reptiles, and insects that these areas support. The Walberswick Reserve is located off the B137 just south of Walberswick village. The site is open all rear round and admission is free. Please telephone 01502 676 171 for more details.

Westleton Heath (English Nature)

Grid Ref: TM473672

At Westleton Heath, near Minismere, birdwatchers can expect to find birds of open heath and light scrub including tree pipit, dartford warbler, stonechat and nightjar. In the woodland areas you'll find nightingale and woodcock. Westleton Heath is 1k.m. North of the village of Westleton. The nearest train station is in Darsham 5km to the West, and Bus services run along the A12 as well. There are toilet and refreshment facilities in nearby towns, with leaflets and signs available for visitor information.

Wolves Wood (RSPB)

Grid Ref: TM 054437

This ancient woodland reserve is managed by traditional coppicing to benefit the myriad of wildlife that call it home. Perfect for early morning birdwatching, there are many nightingale and a wide variety of animal, bird, and plant life. It's located off the A1071, accessible from the Hadleigh bus station and the Harling Road train station. Please telephone 01255 886 043 for more details.

Will Averill is a freelance travel and entertainment writer and administrator for the Suffolk Tourist Guide, a complete online guide to Suffolk accomodation, travel, and entertainment.

From Luxury Hotels for a romantic weekend, to days out with the children, or even office team building or client hospitality, you'll find just what you want here in Suffolk.

Birdwatching Tours - The Latest Outdoor Activity

Birdwatching is becoming a very popular outdoor activity all around the world. There are 835 species of birds in North America only and more than 70 million Americans are either feeding or watching birds. Birdwatching can be done in two ways: You can actually go to a location where there are a lot of birds; you can go by yourself or find a birdwatching tour in your area, or you can make the birds come to you, to your own backyard by some means. In order to really appreciate the excitement of birdwatching, you need some tools to enhance your vision, tools that enable you to see everything in striking detail.

There are also some other ways to participate in the hobby of birding: You can feed the birds, provide them nesting sites or birdhouses, you can grow special plants and gardens to attract birds, travel to nature sanctuaries or birdwatching areas, keep notes on birds you see in the wild, make diagrams or sketches or snap the perfect photograph of your favorite species.

Another way to enhance your birdwatching experience in winter can be learning bird's song. Sight and hearing are the birds' strongest senses and they use special signals to communicate and recognize their own species. You can turn your backyard into a much more interesting place by beginning to recognize bird songs. You will be able to see through the leaves and around buildings which will give you a feeling like you have supernatural vision. You will be amazed to realize how much you had been missing out on.

As you get more experience in birdwatching, you will want to broaden your vision beyond your backyard and to travel to some bird-rich areas. There are birdwatching tours planned by serious bird enthusiasts to some bird sanctuaries, nature parks and other locations where birds can be found in large numbers, in their natural habitats. You will have the chance to see some species you have never seen before by traveling to a region other than the one in which you live. For example, you can find many impressive species like acorn woodpecker in the south eastern Arizona Mountains, especially in the Chirachua Mountains. Another attraction in this area is the diversity of hummingbirds; you can observe as many as 14 different species. But you can find the large magnificent hummingbird only in the south west.

The following tips are useful when birdwatching:

- You have to make as little noise as possible, move slowly and keep your distance. The important thing is that the birds don't know you are there.

- Do not go close to a nest or scare a bird off its nest. This can cause the parents to abandon the nest and the eggs will then be vulnerable to predators.

- Avoid touching the eggs or young birds.

- Do not leave the paths and trails to get a closer look.

- Do not litter.

The easiest way to attract birds is to build a bird house and start feeding them, providing them water all year around, especially in extreme weathers. This is the best way to keep birds coming back to your backyard.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Birdwatching Tours [http://birdwatching-tours-guides.com]

Birdwatching; A Free And Fascinating Pastime For All

My first experience of deliberate birdwatching took place in Richmond Great Park. The time; 1966, the occasion; one of the first dates with my (now) husband. There I was, all dressed up and ready to knock him out with my drop dead gorgeousness (memory plays strange tricks as you get older!) and there he was, luring me into the undergrowth of the park, hissing to me to keep my head down. No, it wasn't this bird's feathers he was after observing, but a green woodpecker that he had spotted. It must have been love on my part because, although I don't remember seeing the flash of emerald, I do remember getting my trendy high boots covered in mud.

And that was the first of many times that I have shared the joys of avian observation with my spouse. He had been a committed twitcher from an early age. As a boy, a family friend had dragged him along to many birdwatching expeditions, from sighting a large wader (a ruff) on a one time sewage farm, soon to become the fifth terminal at Heathrow, to happy weekends spent observing the many migrants arriving on the Norfolk coast from Europe.

Birdwatching is one nature pursuit that just about anybody can get something out of, and most of us have 'twitched' at some time in our lives. What child hasn't fed the ducks, or pigeons? That's the good thing about birds. They are so accessible. You can see them almost everywhere at any time of the day. And you can hear them; blackbirds and nightingales have been immortalised in song and verse. The ubiquitous gull can be heard far inland; pigeons coo vociferously in our city centres; rooks squawk as they arrive at their evening roosts and starlings chatter as they gather in flocks on our roofs, telegraph wires and urban trees. No other wild animal group is so easy to see and admire. The skill of flying, and therefore the ability to get out of the way if needs must, has been a boon for the latent birdwatcher in all of us.

That birdwatching foray with my husband to be was the first of many enjoyable observations of our feathered friends. Some I will never forget. Standing on top of the Preseli hills in Wales and listening to the liquid bubbling coming from the throats of hundreds of curlews in the gathering dusk of the evening; sadly not a common occurrence nowadays. Or that magic afternoon, cycling along a country road with my young son and counting 32 larks as they rose skywards from the fields either side of us. Another sight, rarer now than it used to be, was the spectacle of thousands of starlings darkening the sky and turning as one with a whoosh of wings, above the field next to our first home; We've watched puffins and guillemots on Skomer island off the coast of West Wales and along the seashore we have seen countless flocks of all sorts of waders. And how to describe the thrill of seeing two peregrine falcons screeching over a deceased pigeon that they were devouring at the base of a sea cliff; or watching red kites circling lazily in the thermals above the hills of mid Wales.

And there are always more. I'm so glad I've seen at least one dipper, incongruously running along a stream bed, underwater feeding. Another stream frequenter, the heron, can also be sighted, perched in prehistoric stance, in the middle of a field. What is it doing? I am assured by that fount of all bird knowledge (my husband) that it's on the lookout for a tasty mole; and sometimes, if we went out on a Summer night, we would be lucky enough to catch sight of a little owl, staring down at us from his high perch on a telegraph pole.

We called one of our houses Hafod Y Wennol, Welsh for summer house of the swallows, because, in it's previous life as a cow parlour, the swallows had swooped in and made their little mud nests on it's walls. We felt so guilty at evicting them from their home, especially after such a long and perilous journey from their Winter habitat somewhere in Africa. But swallow poo is prolific and not to be tolerated indoors; and they did have a garage and another barn to breed in. For many years they were a significant part of our summer; the sighting of the first arrival was always noted. Their twittering and swooping round the farmyard a never ending source of enjoyment; their gathering on the telephone wire and subsequent departure a gloomy time, heralding as it did the approaching winter.

And at our next home, a tall Edwardian town house, we had the amazing luck to be the Summer residence to a flock of swifts, whose ariel acrobatics, as they screamed past our windows, would have put the Red Devils to shame. We never tired of watching as they swooped and dived after insects, banking at the last second when it seemed they must collide with the house wall. It was better than television!

We have been lucky enough to live in a beautiful part of the country where birdlife is prolific and constant. But town dwellers have opportunities too. In any urban garden a wide variety of town birds can be seen; especially with a little bit of encouragement. Introduce a nut feeder and a bird table and, abracadabra, in an amazingly short space of time there will be blue tits, robins, blackbirds, sparrows and various finches; if you're lucky there might be the odd nuthatch. The tiny wren might hop about underneath, picking up any titbits and, if, they all suddenly scatter for no apparent reason, look up to the skies and search for the shape of a sparrowhawk, on the lookout for an unwary prey.

Yes, bird watching is something that you can do all through your life; from a window or outdoors. Introduce your children to this fascinating world and they will have a pleasure that will last and last; it's free entertainment and an excellent grounding in learning how to appreciate some of the wonderful world around us.

Jackie Gee is a professional freelance writer with many varied works published on and offline. She is currently sponsoring this blog which can help with wild bird identification [http://www.online-birding.info]. If you like the content of this article then you may like to know that (at the time of writing) Jackie is currently accepting article jobs for consideration. Her rates are by no means the cheapest but you get top quality article content. She can be reached by contacting Fabio Marcell's offices here: Internet Traffic and Brand Building

Try Birdwatching - 6 Key Reasons People Are Flocking Into This Hobby

Friendship, companionship and sheer pleasure, these are some of the benefits to be gained from the hobby of Birdwatching or Birding. In this article, I review six key reasons why birdwatching fascinates around 70 million Americans and countless more people around the world.

Fitness and health. Birdwatching promotes health and fitness in a number of ways. First is the simple advantage of being outdoors and breathing fresh air. Secondly, getting to good sites for birdwatching often involves walking or hiking and hill climbing, all good for the heart, lungs and circulation. Another significant plus point is exposure to sunlight. This promotes the production of vitamin D. Due to our modern lifestyle; many of us are deficient in this essential vitamin which helps strengthen teeth and bones. Sunlight has also been shown to combat depression and help protect against disease.

Companionship. The public image of birdwatching is that of a solitary birdwatcher spending the day in the field then returning home to a lonely supper. As with any hobby, there are some people like that - but not many of us. The majority of birdwatchers are friendly, convivial folk who love to go out birding with each other. There are popular birdwatching clubs in just about every part of the world. Companionship plays a central part in the attraction of birdwatching.

Pleasure from nature. Birding brings us back in touch with a more natural way of life, one that we can lose sight of in our urban homes. We are struck by the vitality of nature, the rhythm of the changing seasons and the beauty of the landscape. We can see and feel all of this firsthand, not via images on a TV screen.

Family. Many family members go birdwatching in pairs or larger groups. A father teaching his son or a grandfather showing his grandson the tricks to tracking down that rare bird. Or showing him the basics of identifying and naming our more common visitors. All of this goes to strengthen the bond between generations and knits families more closely together.

Finding that elusive bird. Wired into our genes, particularly those of men, is the desire to hunt. This gives us the thrill of the chase, the satisfaction of finding our prey. Birdwatching is the civilised expression of these feelings. It provides us with the emotional charge while preserving, indeed prizing, life. It is no coincidence that many birdwatchers strongly support efforts to save the environment.

Friendship. Valuable friendships are made from striking up conversations with fellow birdwatchers. We already have our hobby in common so breaking the ice is much easier than with other people. Keeping in touch with news of sightings, our successes and failures and our plans all helps to maintain and develop our birdwatching friendships.

In summary, there really are lots of positive reasons to be a birdwatcher. If you already are one, congratulations on being part of our family. If you are thinking about becoming a birdwatcher, you can start small. Observe your local birds; begin to identify them and their songs. Above all, start now - you'll find birdwatching to be an exciting and rewarding hobby.

Graham Fielding writes articles on a range of topics including How To Sell Timeshare.

For more information on How to Birdwatching visit http://www.all-about-birdwatching.com/.

Top Birdwatching Sites in the Philippines

One thing that sets the Philippines apart from other travel destinations in Asia is its abundant natural resources. The "Pearl of the Orient," an archipelago comprising 7,107 islands, is becoming the leader in ecotourism in the region. With more than 600 bird species living in the country, no wonder the Philippines is one of the favorites among local and international birding enthusiasts.

Since the Philippines is located in the East Asian Flyway of migratory birds, the country is an important destination for many bird species, including those considered threatened. So what are you waiting for? Grab those binoculars and embark on a birdwatching trip to the Philippines. Here are some of the recommended sites to discover the beauty and diversity of Philippine birds.

Rasa Island

While exploring various attractions in the island paradise of Palawan in southern Philippines, don't forget to visit Rasa Island. Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2006, the island is home to the critically endangered Philippine cockatoo. Rasa Island, which was declared as one of the top birdwatching destinations in the country by the Department of Tourism, also serves as breeding ground to black-nape oriole, white-vented shama, racquet-tailed parrot, and rufous-tailed tailorbird.

Candaba Marsh

Discover your love with birds with a trip to Candaba Marsh in Pampanga. To encourage more birdwatchers in the area, the local government developed a former fish pond into a bird-watching site. Candaba Marsh, which is only a two-hour drive from Manila, is home to purple heron, great egret, little egret, white-browed crake, purple swamphen, and pheasant-tailed jacana. If you're lucky, you'll get a chance to see little ringed-plover, blue-tailed bee-eater, artic warbler, pacific swallow, and the pied fantail.

Subic

The vast areas of undeveloped land in this former US Naval Base are known for its impressive number of bird species. Experts said there are more than 100 different types of birds in Subic, one of the top 13 birdwatching sites in the Philippines. Covering a total land area of 287.16 square kilometers, Subic accounts for 15% of all bird species throughout the country and 29% of all birds in Luzon. Some of the bird species found in Subic are the crested myna, barred rail, green imperial-pigeon, and blur-throated bee-eaters.

Balanga

Another certified birdwatching paradise in the Philippines is Balanga. This second-class city in Bataan has been attracting tourists in the coastal villages of Tortugas, Sibacan, and Porto Rivas. The three areas are well-known for its feathered inhabitants, including the black-headed gull, great egret, little egret, and whiskered tern. Rare bird species such as the Asian Golden Plover and Kentish Plover also nest in Balanga.

Allan Leandro Merin has been writing professionally since 2008. After leaving a career at a daily electronic newspaper, he joined a web development outsourcing company and linked up with Local Philippines, the most comprehensive online directory of Philippine destinations, events, and attractions.

The Wildlife In Cuba - Birdwatching And The Island's Indigenous Land Mammals

The Caribbean is known for its wildlife, and naturally Cuba is no exception. However, if you don't know what you're looking for, you can miss an awful lot - especially with the world's smallest humming bird, and a frog smaller than a penny are endemic to the island! Here's a guide to the animals of Cuba that you should look out for on your visit to the island.

Firstly, birdwatching in Cuba is reason to visit in itself, and the Caribbean's avian life is both graceful and colourful. Here are some of the more memorable birds you might see amidst Cuba's wildlife:

The Cuban Trogan

Known as Cuba's national bird, because it shares the same colours as the Cuban flag - blue, red and white. Found in forests near streams, it is notable for its dark green head and wings, bright red belly and white chest. They feed on insects, fruits and by hovering on flowers.

Bee Hummingbird

The world's smallest bird is endemic to the island, and a highlight of Cuba's birdwatching scene. Growing to a maximum length of 2.25 inches, it's typically found in valleys, gardens and forests but has been labelled as 'threatened' since 2000 due to a loss of its natural habitats.

Cuban Finch

Another small species, the Cuban Finch is 3 and a half inches of impressive energy! Nesting in shrubs, it is best known for its beautiful yellow head, which males can fluff up to attract mates!

Cuban Parakeet

The Cuban Parakeet, once a common sight for those birdwatching in Cuba has now become something of a rarity thanks to destruction of habitat and trapping, as it was regarded as a crop pest.

Those birdwatching in Cuba will likely find it in grasslands with palms, woodland edges and in undisturbed forests. You should be able to spot it easily enough - it is bright green with red spots on the head, neck and breast with red on the bend of the wing, and a white band of flesh around the eyes.

Cuban Kite

In a distressingly familiar theme, the beautiful Cuba Kite is classified as 'critically endangered' due to habitat loss. In fact, it was thought extinct until 3 Cuban Kites were found on the east of the island.

The bird of prey lives in heavily forested land, and is thought to feed mainly on snails.

Moving away from the opportunities for birdwatching that Cuba offers, the wildlife of the island is equally impressive, though sadly in many cases the animals of Cuba are equally endangered.

Cuban Hutia

The Cuban Hutia is the largest endemic land animal that Cuba has to offer, growing on average to be around 60 centimetres in length. If you're looking to catch a sight of one of these during your Cuban travel, you're best off looking around the forests and rocky areas of the island, where you may spy the animal going about its daily business. It's an omnivore and eats a combination of fruits, small reptiles, small mammals and leaves.

Cuban Solenodon

This insectivore was, like the Cuban Kite, once thought to be extinct, but has now been 'upgraded' to endangered status. You are unlikely to spy this sample of Cuba's wildlife by chance, as it is largely nocturnal, and spends its days hiding in trees and under rocks, mainly in forests and thick shrub habitats.

Cuban Boa

Listed as near threatened, those with a fear of snakes shouldn't worry about running into one of these by chance! Also known as the Cuban Tree boa, thanks to the amount of time it spends up in trees, those looking to see one in the wildlife of Cuba are best of searching in woodland and rocky habitats.

Cuban Treefrog

Also up in the trees (unsurprisingly) is the Cuban Treefrog. If you're hoping to catch sight of one amongst the Cuban wildlife, you will need to be around at night, when it is active. It's carnivorous, and will eat pretty much anything it can catch, but even though it's the largest species of treefrog in North America, that doesn't extend to humans!

Monte Iberia Dwarf Eleuth

The text for its name in this article actually takes up more space than the frog itself! Growing to just 0.8mm long, you could fit 2-3 of these endangered frogs on a single penny piece. It's small size and endangered status isn't the only reason you're unlikely to spy one on holiday - they're also nocturnal, finding cover in the daytime.

The animals of Cuba are simply breathtaking, and the endangered nature of many of the creatures means that seeing some of the species is likely a once in a lifetime experience. Whether you're in Cuba for birdwatching, or simply taking in the history, an exploration of the wildlife is a fascinating way to spend a few days.

Emma Lelliott is the general manager of Captivating Cuba, an independent Cuba holiday specialist. With offices in Havana and the UK, Captivating Cuba can design tailor made Cuba bird watching holidays to ensure you see the fascinating avian life in their amazing natural habitat.