Bermuda Audubon Society

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is there a birding guide to Bermuda?

A. Yes - ‘A Birdwatching Guide to Bermuda’ by Andrew Dobson, published by Arlequin Press in April 2002, provides you with just about all the information you could possibly want. (Click on ‘Birdwatching’ in the menu). It is available through the American Birding Association, many natural history bookstores and locally in Bermuda. If you have problems in obtaining a copy, email info@audubon.bm

Q. Which field guides cover Bermuda’s birds?

A. Any of the North American field guides cover all the birds commonly occurring in Bermuda.

Q. Is there a checklist of Bermuda’s birds?

A. Yes - There is a detailed annotated checklist in ‘A Birdwatching Guide to Bermuda’ by Andrew Dobson.

Q. I am only here for a few days and want to go birding. Where can you recommend?

A. Depending on the time of the year, look at the seasonal summaries under birdwatching. The best individual bird site is Spittal Pond, which you can visit by yourself or take a scheduled tour with a Park Ranger on Fridays – check with the Parks Department when you are here: tel. 236-4201

Q. Can anyone take me out birding when I am visiting Bermuda?

A. This might be possible with enough notice, but most of the birders on the island have full-time jobs. Email us at: info@audubon.bm

Q. Are there any Audubon field trips arranged during my visit?

A. Please check our events to which you are more than welcome.

Q. I have not travelled outside North America. Will there be any different species for me when I visit Bermuda?

A. The Cahow is a nocturnal breeding species. You are unlikely to see one, although more and more sightings of this endangered species are being made from land, looking off-shore. White-tailed Tropicbird (Longtail) is present from March to September. European Goldfinch and Great Kiskadee are abundant residents.

Q. Are there any endemic species of animal?

A. Yes. The Bermuda Petrel or Cahow. Also, the resident White-eyed Vireo is an endemic sub-species. The Bermuda Skink or Rock Lizard is a scarce endemic reptile.

Q. Are there any poisonous animals or plants?

A. There are no snakes in Bermuda. The most dangerous things you are likely to encounter are: Portuguese-Man-of-War (especially in winter and spring on the beaches); Fire Coral (if you go snorkeling); and poison ivy (if you stray from footpaths).

Portuguese Man-of-War

Q. Do I have to be an Audubon member to visit nature reserves?

A. No. Nor is there any charge to visit nature reserves belonging to the Bermuda Audubon Society or other organizations in Bermuda. To protect the fauna and flora, there is restricted access to some reserves.