The Tropical Birds of Saint-Barthelemy
Over 50 species of nesting and migratory birds inhabit the island, from majestic brown pelicans to elegant magnificent frigatebirds
A Caribbean Ornithological Paradise
Saint-Barthelemy is a true sanctuary for bird lovers. Despite its small size (25 km2), the island hosts more than 50 bird species divided between permanent residents and seasonal migrants. From rocky coasts to salt ponds, each ecosystem offers exceptional observation opportunities.
Brown pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis) are the undisputed stars of the Saint-Barth sky. These spectacular seabirds dive from 15 meters high to catch fish, offering a fascinating natural show visible daily from the island beaches.
The island is located on an important migratory route connecting North America to the Caribbean and South America. From September to November, dozens of migratory species stop over in Saint-Barth: shorebirds, herons, warblers and raptors temporarily transform the island into an international ornithological hotspot.
The Iconic Species of Saint-Barth
Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis)
Size: 106-137 cm wingspan, 2-5 kg
Plumage: Gray-brown body, white and yellow head during breeding season, gray gular pouch
Behavior: Spectacular plunge-diving from 10-20 m height to catch fish
Breeding: Nesting on rocky islets from February to June
Observation: Visible year-round on all beaches, particularly at St-Jean, Gustavia and Grand Cul-de-Sac
Magnificent Frigatebird (Fregata magnificens)
Size: 217-229 cm wingspan (the largest of all frigatebirds)
Plumage: Iridescent black, male with spectacular inflatable red gular pouch during courtship
Behavior: Majestic soaring flight, pirates other seabirds (kleptoparasitism)
Particularity: Never lands on water (non-waterproof plumage)
Observation: Soaring above bays, particularly at Colombier, Gouverneur and Shell Beach
Bridled Tern (Onychoprion anaethetus)
Size: 30-32 cm, wingspan 77-81 cm
Plumage: Dark brown back, white belly, black cap with characteristic white forehead
Behavior: Flies in groups skimming the waves, sharp "kip-kip-kip" call
Breeding: Nests in colonies on Pain de Sucre and Fourchue islets (April-August)
Observation: In flight off all coasts, colonies visible by boat
Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis)
Size: 46-56 cm tall
Plumage: Immaculate white, orange feathers on back and head during breeding season
Behavior: Follows goats and cattle to catch disturbed insects
Habitat: Grasslands, wetlands, Saline and Lorient ponds
Observation: Saline pond, Flamands and Colombier pastures, perched on goats
Yellow Warbler (Setophaga petechia)
Size: 12-13 cm
Plumage: Bright yellow with reddish streaks on the chest (male)
Behavior: Melodious song "sweet-sweet-sweet-I'm-so-sweet", active insectivore
Habitat: Mangroves, gardens, shrubby areas
Observation: Grand Cul-de-Sac and Saline mangroves, Gustavia gardens
Zenaida Dove (Zenaida aurita)
Size: 28-30 cm
Plumage: Pinkish brown with iridescent reflections, black spot on cheeks
Behavior: Deep cooing "coo-coo-cooo", flies in small groups
Breeding: Nests in trees and shrubs year-round
Observation: Everywhere on the island, very common in residential areas and gardens
Best Observation Spots
Saline Pond
Hotspot #1Protected wetland hosting shorebirds, herons, egrets and ducks. Stopover point for migrants.
Species: Cattle egret, snowy egret, sandpipers, plovers
Best time: Early morning (6am-9am) and migration (Sept-Nov)
Colombier Bay
SeabirdsPrime location for watching pelicans, frigatebirds, terns and tropicbirds in full flight.
Species: Brown pelican, magnificent frigatebird, tropicbird, sooty tern
Best time: Year-round, particularly late afternoon
Grand Cul-de-Sac (Mangrove)
BiodiversityMangrove sheltering warblers, herons, kingfishers and shorebirds.
Species: Yellow warbler, green heron, tricolored egret, kingfisher
Best time: Year-round, low tide for shorebirds
Gustavia Harbor
AccessiblePelicans and frigatebirds hunt around fishing boats, easy observation from the dock.
Species: Brown pelican, magnificent frigatebird, gulls, terns
Best time: Year-round, fishermen return (4pm-6pm)
Annual Ornithological Calendar
January - April: Nesting Season
Breeding of resident species. Pelicans, terns and frigatebirds build their nests. Spectacular courtship displays of male frigatebirds with inflated red gular pouch.
May - August: Calm Tropical Summer
Quieter period, observation of permanent residents. Young birds learn to fly. Good time to photograph common species without tourist crowds.
September - November: Fall Migration
Best ornithological period! Massive passage of migratory birds: shorebirds (sandpipers, plovers), warblers, raptors. Up to 30 different species in one day at the Saline pond.
December: Return Migration
Return of wintering birds from North America. Arrival of shorebirds that will spend the winter in the Caribbean. Beginning of frigatebird courtship displays.
Anecdotes & Fascinating Facts
The Pelican Dive
Brown pelicans dive at over 60 km/h from 20 meters high. Air pockets under their skin cushion the violent impact with the water. Their gular pouch can hold up to 11 liters of water with the captured fish!
Pirate Frigatebirds
Magnificent frigatebirds are kleptoparasites: they harass other seabirds in flight to force them to regurgitate their catch. This strategy allows them to avoid diving (their plumage is not waterproof). Their 2.3 m wingspan allows them to soar for hours without flapping their wings.
Record Migration
Some shorebirds observed in Saint-Barth in September come directly from the Canadian Arctic, traveling over 4000 km non-stop! The red knot holds the record: it can fly 9 consecutive days without landing.
Endemic Yellow Warbler
The subspecies of yellow warbler present in Saint-Barth (Setophaga petechia bartholemica) is considered endemic to the Lesser Antilles. Its song differs slightly from its continental cousins.
Sanctuary Islets
The islets of Fourchue, Pain de Sucre and Fregate are protected nature reserves where thousands of bridled terns and tropicbirds nest. Access is strictly regulated from April to August to protect the colonies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to observe birds in Saint-Barth?
September to November is the ideal time thanks to the fall migration that brings over 30 migratory species. For resident species, February to April offers the spectacle of courtship displays and nesting.
Where to easily observe brown pelicans?
Pelicans are visible everywhere around the island, but the best spots are: Gustavia harbor (fishermen return 4pm-6pm), St-Jean beach, and Grand Cul-de-Sac. They hunt in spectacular groups in the morning (7am-9am) and late afternoon.
Can you see rare birds in Saint-Barth?
Yes! During migrations, rare species can stop over: osprey, American golden-plover, various North American warblers. The Saline pond is the best spot for rare sightings. Check local birding groups for alerts.
Do you need special equipment for bird watching?
8x42 or 10x42 binoculars are strongly recommended. A Caribbean bird identification guide is useful. For photography, a 300-600mm telephoto lens is ideal. Choose neutral-colored clothing (beige, khaki, olive green) and avoid sudden movements.
Are the nesting islets accessible?
No, they are strictly protected from April to August during nesting. Access to the islets of Fourchue, Pain de Sucre and Fregate is prohibited to preserve tern and tropicbird colonies. Boat excursions allow observation from a respectful distance.
Are there endemic birds in Saint-Barth?
No species strictly endemic to Saint-Barth, but the yellow warbler(subspecies bartholemica) and the gray trembler are endemic subspecies of the Lesser Antilles. The island is part of the important nesting area for several Caribbean species.
Tips for Responsible Observation
Respect Distances
Maintain at least 30 meters distance from nesting birds. Never disturb colonies on protected islets.
Optimal Times
Birds are more active early morning (6am-9am) and late afternoon (4pm-7pm). Avoid hot hours when they rest.
Do Not Feed the Birds
Artificial feeding alters their natural behaviors and creates dependency. Let them hunt and feed naturally.
Photograph Ethically
Never use flash near birds. Favor natural light and a telephoto lens to capture details without disturbing.
Stay on Trails
Particularly at the Saline pond and in wetland areas, stay on paths to avoid trampling fragile habitats.
Discover All the Biodiversity of Saint-Barth
Explore the other natural wonders of the island: sea turtles, humpback whales, dolphins, tropical fish and exceptional Caribbean flora.