Tropical birds you may see on expedition and small-ship adventure cruises

Tropical birds are a diverse avian species that thrive in warm, humid environments, such as rainforests, wetlands, and tropical islands. Known for their vivid colours, distinct vocalisations, and unique behaviours, tropical birds play vital roles in ecosystems, particularly seed dispersal and pollination.

Their vivid colours, including shades of red, blue, yellow, and green, serve various purposes, from attracting mates to camouflaging in dense foliage. Many tropical birds are frugivores, eating fruits and helping to spread seeds, while others may feed on insects, nectar, or even small animals. Tropical birds can be found worldwide, including in Central American countries such as Colombia, Costa Rica and Mexico. 

Pixabay

Pixabay

Blue-grey Tanager

Blue-grey Tanager

The Blue-grey Tanager (Thraupis episcopus) is a small, brightly coloured bird. True to its name, the bird's plumage is primarily a soft blue-grey. It has a distinctive, vibrant light blue on the wings, tail, and underside.

Pixabay

Pixabay

Blue Winged Kookaburra

Blue-winged Kookaburra

The blue-winged kookaburra (Dacelo leachii) is a species of kingfisher native to northern Australia and parts of New Guinea. It is closely related to the well-known laughing kookaburra but has distinct features and behaviours.

 

Pixabay

Pixabay

Pompadour Cotinga

Cotinga

The Cotinga family, belonging to the Cotingidae family, is a group of colourful and diverse birds found mainly in the tropical forests of Central and South America. These birds are known for their striking plumage, elaborate courtship displays, and unique behaviours.

Image by marvinbla from Pixabay

Image by marvinbla from Pixabay

Bird 6935466 Hummingbird Image By Marvinbla From Pixabay 1294

Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds are small, familiar birds known for their ability to hover in mid-air by rapidly flapping their wings—sometimes up to 80 times per second. Native to the Americas, they are most diverse in South America but are found as far north as Alaska. Each species belongs to the Trochilidae family but has its own unique genus and species designation based on its characteristics and evolutionary history.

Pixabay

Pixabay

Lineated Woodpecker

Lineated Woodpecker

The Lineated Woodpecker (Dryocopus lineatus) is a striking and large woodpecker species found throughout the Americas.

Jamie Lafferty

Jamie Lafferty

Costa Rica Parrot Macaw

Scarlet Macaws

The Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao) is one of the most iconic and recognizable parrot species, known for its striking appearance and vibrant colours. Native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, these large birds are highly intelligent and social, often living in pairs or flocks.

Image by Beto from Pixabay

Image by Beto from Pixabay

Bird 7100599 Tropical Kingbird Image By Beto From Pixabay 1295

Tropical Kingbirds

The tropical kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) is a widespread member of the Tyrannidae family, commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. It has a distinctive appearance: a greyish head, a bright yellow belly, and a pale grey chest. Its wings and tail are darker, usually brownish or gray. The throat is white, and it has a short, black bill.

Jamie Lafferty

Jamie Lafferty

Toucan Jamie Lafferty

Toucans

Toucans are colourful tropical birds known for oversized, vibrant bills and lively personalities. They belong to the family Ramphastidae and are native to the rainforests of Central and South America.



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