Meet the Locals: Tobago’s Feathered Residents

Tobago is home to over 260 bird species, making it one of the Caribbean’s top birdwatching destinations. From your villa’s verandah or while strolling through the sanctuary, you might spot:

- Rufous-vented Chachalaca – Known locally as the “Cocrico,” Tobago’s national bird.

- Blue-backed Manakin – A dazzling forest dweller with a vibrant dance during mating season.

- White-tailed Sabrewing – A rare hummingbird once thought extinct, now thriving in Tobago’s forests.

- Trinidad Motmot – With its striking tail and colourful plumage, it’s a favourite among photographers.

- Red-billed Tropicbird – Often seen gliding near Little Tobago Island, a short trip from the mainland.

Birdwatching from Your Villa

Each of our 14 villas is surrounded by tropical gardens and forest views, making birdwatching as easy as stepping outside. Early mornings are especially magical, with the calls of tanagers, flycatchers, and hummingbirds filling the air. Keep an eye out for the Copper-rumped Hummingbird darting between blossoms or the White-necked Jacobin hovering near feeders.

A Bond with Nature

Here’s a fun twist: James Bond, the legendary British spy, got his name from a birdwatcher. Author Ian Fleming, who spent time in the Caribbean, was an avid birder himself. He borrowed the name from James Bond, the real-life ornithologist who wrote Birds of the West Indies—a definitive guide to Caribbean bird species. Fleming wanted a name that was “as ordinary as possible” for his fictional agent, and Bond’s book was sitting on his shelf.

So when you’re spotting a Motmot or a Sabrewing near your villa, you’re not just birdwatching—you’re connecting with a legacy that blends nature and pop culture.

Guided Tours & Nature Walks

For guests eager to learn more, we can arrange guided birdwatching tours with local experts like Newton George or William Trim—renowned ornithologists who bring Tobago’s birdlife to life with stories, calls, and sightings.

Eco-Luxury at Its Finest

At The Villas at Stonehaven, we believe in celebrating and preserving the natural beauty that surrounds us. Whether you're a seasoned birder or simply someone who appreciates the serenity of nature, our resort offers a unique blend of eco-luxury and wildlife immersion.

Ready to experience Tobago’s wild side? Book your stay and discover why The Villas at Stonehaven is a paradise not just for people—but for birds too.