In a message dated 96-04-18 01:57:48 EDT, kit at srv.net (Kit Struthers) writes:

>Tweeters,
>
>My husband and I are going to Roatan, one of the Bay Islands off Honduras,
>this July for a week of scuba diving and birding. Has anyone been birding
>there? Or have any information on birding there? I have Howell & Webb's
>guide for Mexico & Central America but don't find much there that is
>specfic to the Bay Islands.
>
>Thanks for your help!
>
>Kit
>
>Kit Struthers
>kit at srv.net
>Idaho Falls, Idaho
>
>

I was in Honduras and on Roatan island about this time last year, and like
you, didnt find much specific to the area. The book i took with me was the
Peterson's field guide of Mexican birds, although it didnt cover all of the
species i found while there. I dont think i did much birding while on
Roatan, by that point I was interested more in snorkeling and relaxing on the
beach, but one place i did go and enjoyed was the Botanical Gardens (i think
it was 30 lempiras to get in-about 3 dollars, and its right off the main road
at the far end of the island-opposite of where the ferry docks). Dont be
deceived when you enter, as the gardens seem small. There actually are 2
hikes one can take (low impact, short in length). My friend and i took the
high road with great reward. Not only were there a good amount of birds, but
the view at the top is spectacular!! Its too bad youre not hitting the
mainland. Lancatilla Botanical Gardens, La Tigra national park, and the
mountains behind Trujillo all proved to be excellent birding areas. Although
i didnt see a quetzal, i did see a handful of trogons, several toucans
(collared aracari), oropendolas, orioles, tanagers, several types of fly
catchers, kingfishers...and many i couldnt identify. Regardless of where you
are, however, you'll definately have your fill of vultures. While in Tela,
on the coast, i counted 70 in one spot!
Have a great trip, and feel free to email me with other questions.

Shannon Foster
ShanLF at aol.com
Seattle, WA