March Birdwatching
March is an excellent time for a birdwatching holiday in the BES islands of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba. The weather is usually warm, bright and pleasantly dry, making it comfortable to spend long hours outdoors. It is also a rewarding month for seeing resident Caribbean species alongside visiting birds moving through the region.
Each island offers a different experience. Bonaire has open landscapes, salt pans and wetlands that are easy to explore, while Sint Eustatius combines historic scenery with forested slopes and coastal habitats. Saba is smaller and more mountainous, with excellent opportunities to watch seabirds and woodland species in dramatic surroundings.
Bonaire’s Salt Pans
Bonaire is the best-known birdwatching destination in the group, particularly around the salt pans and Lac Bay. The shallow lagoons attract flamingos, herons, egrets, gulls and waders, and the changing light can make even a familiar view look completely different. Early morning is often the most comfortable time to visit, before the midday heat builds.
Drive slowly and keep a pair of binoculars ready, as birds can appear beside the road or on the edges of the water. Look out for bright yellow bananaquits, brown pelicans and the island’s distinctive parakeets. The dry vegetation also provides habitat for small songbirds, doves and raptors, so it is worth scanning the scrub as well as the shoreline.
Sint Eustatius Habitats
Sint Eustatius, often called Statia, gives birdwatchers a varied day out within a compact area. The lower slopes are dry and open, while the Quill volcano supports greener vegetation and a different range of birdlife. Trails around the national parks can be productive, especially when explored at a relaxed pace.
As you walk, listen for calls in the trees and watch the canopy for movement. Bananaquits, hummingbirds, flycatchers and doves are among the species you may encounter, while the coastline can bring views of frigatebirds, pelicans and terns. The island’s quiet character means you can enjoy your sightings without feeling rushed.
Saba’s Mountain Birds
Saba is ideal for travellers who enjoy combining birdwatching with walking. Its steep volcanic landscape rises from the sea, creating cool, green pockets of forest and open viewpoints. Trails can be demanding in places, but the scenery and sense of wilderness make the effort worthwhile.
Keep an eye on the skies for tropicbirds, frigatebirds and other seabirds, particularly from coastal viewpoints. In the higher vegetation, listen carefully for small forest birds and hummingbirds. A local guide can help identify calls, explain the island’s habitats and choose routes suited to your walking experience.
Planning Your Holiday
For a successful March birdwatching holiday, pack lightweight clothing, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection and a refillable water bottle. Binoculars are essential, and a simple field guide or bird identification app will help you record what you see. Dawn starts are worthwhile, followed by a leisurely breakfast and time to enjoy the islands’ beaches, food and local culture.
You can base yourself on one island or combine two or all three, depending on your interests and available time. Bonaire suits independent exploring and wetland watching, while Statia and Saba offer more intimate, guided experiences. Whichever itinerary you choose, the BES islands provide warm hospitality, varied habitats and memorable birdwatching in March.