Central America is home to more than 1,000 species and is a prime destination for birdwatching, serving as a natural bridge for migration across the continent. March is a key time, coinciding with the peak migration of many species between North and South America.
Central America Big Day not only highlights the isthmus's natural wealth but also promotes sustainable tourism and citizen science. During this event, specialized guides, birdwatching clubs, ornithologists, tour operators, and enthusiasts come together to observe and record species in the diverse ecosystems of Central America and the Dominican Republic.
The Central American Tourism Promotion Agency (CATA), in coordination with national tourism authorities and the private sector, has established more than 100 observation points throughout the region. Some of the available observation points include:
Guatemala: Tikal National Park and Quetzal Biotope.
El Salvador: Cerro Verde National Park and El Pital.
Honduras: La Tigra National Park.
Nicaragua: Maderas Volcano and Granada Islets Nature Reserve.
Panama: Metropolitan Natural Park and La Amistad International Park.
Belice: Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary y Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.
The first Central America Big Day marks an important step in consolidating the region as a birdwatching and nature tourism destination. With this initiative, Central America joins the major international birdwatching events, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability and respect for biodiversity.
The activity was made possible thanks to the collaborative efforts of CATA and local birdwatching clubs, who promoted good birdwatching practices, ensuring that the experience is carried out with the utmost respect for the birds and their environment.
Source: Visit Centroamérica.