September Birdwatching |

Why Visit in September?

September is a rewarding time for a birdwatching holiday in the BES islands: Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba. These Dutch Caribbean islands offer three very different landscapes within a relatively small region, from Bonaire’s salt pans and dry woodland to Saba’s misty mountain slopes. Warm weather, quieter beaches and fewer visitors make it easier to enjoy the islands at a relaxed pace.

Birdlife remains active despite the heat, particularly during the cooler hours of early morning and late afternoon. September can also bring passing showers, which freshen the vegetation and attract insects, giving birds extra feeding opportunities. A local guide can help you find species that are easy to miss and explain how seasonal weather affects island wildlife.

Caribbean Holidays, September Birdwatching, Flamingos standing in shallow pink-tinted salt ponds on Bonaire beneath a bright Caribbean sky

Bonaire’s Salt Pans

Bonaire is an excellent starting point for September birdwatching holidays. The island’s salt pans and coastal lagoons are famous for American flamingos, which can often be seen wading through shallow water or flying in elegant formations overhead. Look carefully around the edges of the ponds for herons, egrets, terns and shorebirds.

The Washington Slagbaai National Park adds dry hills, cactus scrub and sheltered bays to the itinerary. Early starts are worthwhile here, when the light is softer and birds are more active. Keep an eye out for yellow-shouldered parrots, brown pelicans and lively pearly-eyed thrashers, while driving slowly and giving wildlife plenty of space.

Caribbean Holidays, September Birdwatching, Birdwatcher exploring green volcanic forest on Sint Eustatius with the Caribbean sea in the distance

Sint Eustatius Trails

Sint Eustatius, often called Statia, has a wonderfully unhurried feel and a varied selection of habitats. The slopes of the Quill volcano support greener woodland than much of Bonaire, while the coastal areas and historic plantations offer open ground where different birds can be found. Walking trails around the volcano are especially appealing after a shower, when the island feels fresh and the forest is full of sound.

Take time to explore at a gentle pace, listening for calls as well as scanning the branches. Bananaquits, hummingbirds, doves and flycatchers are among the island’s regular sights. Combining birdwatching with a visit to the historic town of Oranjestad makes for a rewarding day without feeling rushed.

Caribbean Holidays, September Birdwatching, Saba’s steep green mountain landscape rising from the sea, with a birder walking a forest trail

Saba’s Mountain Birds

Saba is the most dramatic of the three islands, rising steeply from the Caribbean and crowned by Mount Scenery. Its narrow roads, stone steps and forest paths create a very different birdwatching experience. The higher trails can be cool and misty in September, while the changing cloud often produces striking views between clear spells.

Listen for forest species in the vegetation and watch the cliffs and coastline for seabirds. Saba is also a lovely place to combine nature walks with a small-island escape, enjoying local food and friendly hospitality between outings. Comfortable footwear and light waterproof clothing are useful additions to your day pack.

Caribbean Holidays, September Birdwatching, Travel essentials for a Caribbean birdwatching holiday: binoculars, field notebook, hat and water beside a tropical trail

Planning Your Trip

For comfortable September birdwatching, pack binoculars, a field guide, a notebook, sun protection and a reusable water bottle. Lightweight clothing, sturdy walking shoes and a compact rain jacket will help you cope with hot sunshine and short tropical showers. A camera with a good zoom lens is useful, but binoculars should remain your main tool for observing birds responsibly.

Plan outdoor activities for early morning whenever possible and allow time to travel between viewpoints, trails and wetlands. Respect protected areas, stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing nests or feeding wildlife. With a little preparation, a September holiday across Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba can combine excellent birdwatching with beautiful scenery, welcoming island culture and plenty of time to unwind.