Vieques Is for the Birds!
Photography: Daphne Gemmill / Going Birding, Inc.
Discovering and Protecting the Remarkable Birdlife of Our Island
Did you know that 134 species of birds have been recorded in the Vieques Bioluminescent Bay Natural Reserve alone? That's nearly two-thirds of all the bird species documented on Vieques!
For a relatively small island, Vieques offers an extraordinary diversity of habitats. From tropical dry forests and wild hillsides to mangrove wetlands, coastal lagoons, and sandy shorelines, these landscapes provide important places for birds to feed, nest, rest, and thrive.
Vieques' importance to birds has earned international recognition, including designation as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International. Protecting these natural spaces is essential to ensuring that our island remains a haven for birds and people alike.
A Few Feathered Surprises
Even after decades of birdwatching and scientific observation, Vieques continues to surprise us.
In the spring of 2026, birdwatchers documented the first recorded sighting of a Wilson's Storm-Petrel on Vieques, an exciting addition to the island's bird records.
Another remarkable discovery was an exceptionally rare sighting of a Puerto Rican Mango, a species of hummingbird. This was only the second confirmed record on Vieques since 1912!
These discoveries remind us how much there is still to learn about the birds that visit and inhabit our island, and why continued observation matters.
Keeping an Eye on Vieques' Birds
Annual bird surveys on Vieques date back more than four decades, providing valuable information about the species that live here, those that visit seasonally, and how bird populations and habitats change over time.
The Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust's dedicated birding volunteers help carry this tradition forward.
Through guided bird walks, annual bird counts, community activities, and environmental education programs, they share their knowledge and enthusiasm while encouraging residents and visitors to discover the island's remarkable birdlife.
Birdwatching is more than a wonderful way to enjoy nature. It also contributes to our understanding of the health of the ecosystems that birds depend upon.
Come Birding With Us!
One of the best ways to appreciate Vieques' natural beauty is to get outdoors and experience it firsthand.
Our volunteer-led winter bird walks welcome everyone, from experienced birders to those who are simply curious about the birds around them.
2026–2027 Winter Bird Walk Schedule
December 16 | January 6 & 20 | February 3 & 17 | March 3
All walks begin at 7:30 a.m., just inside the main gate at Sun Bay.
Bring binoculars, sturdy shoes, water, and a sense of adventure!
Help Us Count the Birds!
On Saturday, January 2, 2027, the Trust invites bird enthusiasts to participate in the 5th Annual Vieques Audubon Christmas Bird Count.
Part of a longstanding tradition of community science, this annual event brings volunteers together to document the birds found across Vieques.
Following a day in the field, participants will gather at the Trust at 5 p.m. for a potluck celebration.
Preregistration is required.
Protecting a Place for Birds and People
The birds of Vieques are part of what makes our island so extraordinary. Their future depends on the continued protection of the forests, wetlands, mangroves, and coastal habitats that sustain them.
The Trust's work in research, conservation, and environmental education helps protect these precious ecosystems, while our volunteers inspire others to appreciate and care for them.
Whether you join a bird walk, participate in a bird count, volunteer your time, or support our conservation efforts, you can help keep Vieques a haven for birds for generations to come.
Love birds? Get involved!
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