Story and photos © Barb & Ron Kroll FOCUS YOUR BINOCULARS! Embrace birdwatching as a pleasurable pastime at home and abroad Birdwatching around the world Avian life abounds on every continent. National, provincial and state parks are popular places for birdwatching, as well as wildlife refuges and sanctuaries. Our first birding tour was in the Caroni Bird Sanctuary in Trinidad, where thousands of scarlet ibis inhabit the swamp. One look at the brilliant red plumage of Trinidad’s national bird hooked us on the avian pursuit. A more legendary bird − the resplendent quetzal − drew us to Costa Rica’s Savegre Forest Reserve, 90 kilometres southwest of San José. The sacred bird of the Mayas and Aztecs, the quetzal is now endangered, the victim of a rapidly diminishing cloud forest habitat. Spring and fall are known for migratory birdwatching in Canada, but birding is a yearround activity both at home and around the world. Whether you’re an amateur or an ardent devotee, observing birds as an individual or in a group, the experience will enhance your enjoyment of the natural environment. Here’s a roundup of some of our favourite domestic and international destinations for viewing our fine feathered friends. Resplendent quetzal 14 | www.snowbirds.org Travel
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