Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary Birdwatching

As we make our way toward Crooked Tree, keep your eyes peeled—Belize’s diverse birdlife is already on full display along the roadside. Our first birding stop is at the entrance causeway, a double-lane stretch flanked by the vast Northern Lagoon. This is a prime birding hotspot, where we typically spot over 25 species of shorebirds, waders, and raptors. Watch in awe as herons stalk their prey, ibises glide across the water, and kingfishers dive for their morning meal.

Once at the sanctuary, we explore its diverse habitats—either by land or by boat along the lagoons—to seek out an incredible variety of species. Depending on the season, you may spot Jabiru Stork, Roseate Spoonbills, Snail Kites, Black-collared Hawks, Cormorants gathering in the hundreds and more than a few Great Blue Herons. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious nature lover, this tour offers a chance to connect with Belize’s avian wonders in their most pristine habitat.

Optional:

For a better viewing experience, we recommend taking the boat tour. It comes at an additional cost, but takes us across the lagoon to search for all of our target species.

What Makes Crooked Tree a Ramsar Site?

Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is an internationally recognized Ramsar site, meaning it is designated as a wetland of global importance under the Ramsar Convention. This designation highlights its critical role in supporting biodiversity, particularly for migratory birds. During peak season, thousands of birds, including the iconic Jabiru Stork—the largest flying bird in the Americas—congregate in these wetlands, creating an unforgettable spectacle.

Exploring Crooked Tree Village & Its History

Continuing into the peaceful village of Crooked Tree, we step into a place steeped in history. Once a vital British logging settlement, Crooked Tree played a key role in the mahogany trade. Today, the village remains a charming, rural community where residents live harmoniously with the surrounding wetlands. The sanctuary was established in 1984 to protect these ecosystems, ensuring that both wildlife and local traditions endure.