If you visit Bonaire between November and February, you may encounter birds in winter plumage.  Winter plumage, or non-breeding plumage, refers to the seasonal changes in the coloration and feather patterns of many bird species that occur during the winter months. This adaptation allows birds to blend in with their surroundings, providing them with camouflage and protection from predators. Winter plumage is usually more subdued and drab, as seen in the Red Knot pictured here, compared to the bright and vibrant colors of the breeding season.  During the summer breeding season, this same Red Knot will sport a bright cinnamon chest and belly!

2.  Listen to its call or song:

Birds are known for their unique calls and songs, which can be an effective tool for identifying them. Some birds have distinctive calls or songs that can be easily recognized, even by people who are not familiar with birds. For example, the Pearly-eyed Thrasher is known for its distinctive song, a series of slowly given whistled notes with one to three phrases.

To use bird songs, or other vocalizations, to identify it, you can use a bird call app or listen to recordings online. Some bird identification guides also include sound recordings, which can be helpful in identifying the bird. When listening to the bird’s call or song, take note of its rhythm, pitch, and duration, as well as any other distinctive features, such as pauses or trills.

3.  Look at its habitat and behavior:

Birds are often found in specific habitats and have distinct behaviors. Observing where the bird is and its actions can give you further clues to its identity. For example, if you observe a bird in a wetland area, it is likely to be a species adapted to live near water, such as a heron or waterfowl, or the Sora pictured here. If you observe a bird foraging on the ground, it could be a seed eater, such as the Saffron Finch.

In addition to its habitat, you can also observe the bird’s behavior to gain further insight into its identity. For example, if you observe a bird that is hopping along the ground and picking at insects, it could be a warbler. If you observe a bird that is diving into the water and catching fish, it could be a seabird, such as a Brown Booby, seen here, or perhaps an Osprey, plunge-diving for a fish.

Birds of Aruba | Bonaire | Curacao, published in 2017, is the most recently published Bonaire field guide.

Finally, you can use a bird field guide, either in print or online, to compare your observations to the descriptions and pictures of different species. A good bird identification guide will include information on the bird’s physical characteristics, calls, habitats, and range. This information can be used to help you identify the bird based on your observations.

Use the Merlin Bird ID app right on your mobile phone.

The Merlin Bird ID app is a great tool for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. With this app, you can easily identify birds on the go, right on your mobile phone. Whether you’re in your backyard, hiking in Bonaire’s tropical dry forest, or along the coastline, the Merlin Bird ID app can help you quickly identify the birds you see. Simply take a photo or enter information about the bird’s size, color, and behavior, and the app will provide you with a list of possible matches, complete with photos, descriptions, and sounds. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves birds and wants to learn more about the wildlife around them.

Enjoy the expertise of a local guide.

Bonaire Bird ID for mystery birds.

All of these techniques work very well for the common birds you might encounter, but occasionally you’ll have a mystery bird.

If you’re still struggling to identify a bird after trying the above steps, then you may want to look into specialized ID techniques. Shorebird identification, for example, requires an understanding of basic shorebird anatomy and behavior, as well as good observation skills. Raptor identification often involves using flight silhouettes and other plumage characteristics.

Are you ready to get out and ID those birds?

After learning these four easy steps to identify birds and understanding the various concepts that might apply to your observations, I  hope you are feeling more confident in your birding skills. However, it is important to remember that Bonaire bird identification can be a challenging and ongoing learning process. The island is home to a diverse range of bird species, each with its own unique characteristics and traits. By practicing your skills and paying attention to the details, you can start to confidently identify the different bird species you’ll encounter here. So grab your binoculars and camera, and head out to explore the island’s rich bird life.

(Images courtesy of the author.)