Birds of Panama, my top 3 favorites

Bymikele64

Among the 2026 bird species listed in 2024 by the Audubon Society of Panama, a few, quite frequently observed, are my preference. In this article, I present my Top 5.

Number 1: The most beautiful, the Resplendent Quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno)

How can I not place this magnificent and mythical bird at the top.
During nesting season, it is always a great pleasure for me to observe them in full activity. The moments of mating, nest preparation, feeding the young, and their departure from the nest are all captivating scenes.

Male Resplendent Quetzal perched with fruit in its beak in Panama
Male Resplendent Quetzal with fruit in its beak
Female Resplendent Quetzal flying towards its nest
Female Resplendent Quetzal
Male Resplendent Quetzal flying towards its nest in Panama
Male Resplendent Quetzal flying towards its nest
Female Resplendent Quetzal with fruit in its beak
Female Resplendent Quetzal with fruit in its beak

Number 2: The strongest, the Harpy Eagle (Harpia arpyga)

It is the symbolic bird of Panama. One of the most powerful diurnal raptors in the world. The black and white crest it erects when alert and the sight of its formidable talons make it truly impressive.

Photo of an alert Harpy Eagle, crest feathers erect, photo taken in Panama
Alert Harpy Eagle, crest feathers erect
Photo of a female Harpy Eagle feeding her eaglet, taken in Panama
Female Harpy Eagle feeding her eaglet
Photo of a young Harpy Eagle eaglet in the nest, taken in Panama
Young Harpy Eagle eaglet in the nest
Photo of an immature Harpy Eagle eating at the nest
Young Harpy Eagle feeding at the nest

Number 3: One of the rarest to observe, the Sunbittern (Eurypyga helias)

It is not very common in Panama, found on the ground, near streams or water points, it is discreet. When disturbed, it prefers to run and take shelter in the surrounding bushes rather than flying away. Therefore, seeing it in flight is an unforgettable chance, the decoration of its wings makes them worthy of a superb butterfly.

Photo showing the magnificent wings of the Sunbittern in flight
The magnificent wings of the Sunbittern
Photo of a Sunbittern (Eurypygias helias) at the edge of a lake
At the edge of a lake, a Sunbittern

Photo of a Sunbittern taking flight
Sunbittern taking flight
Photo of a Sunbittern with folded wings, feet in the water
Sunbittern with folded wings, feet in the water

To observe these superb birds, Jabiru Tour ® offers a very interesting 12-day program.

See dedicated article on this programme

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