Eager for our best chance to see a Bee Hummingbird––the world’s smallest bird––we head to Guanahacabibes National Park and Biosphere Reserve near María la Gorda. The region is important for its coral reefs, 4 species of sea turtles, spiny lobsters, and 11 species of birds endemic to Cuba. Its 150 square miles harbor about 100 lakes.
Right away we are finding wonderful Cuban birds, like this Western Spindalis. The Cuban spindalis is one of a species complex that may eventually be split, as understanding of their genetics advances.
La Sagra’s Flycatcher is much like other Myiarchus flycatchers that nest around Portal.
And this Eastern Phoebe looks just like… an Eastern Phoebe! What is this bird doing in Cuba? It’s only about the fourth record for the country! Yesterday Arturo Kirkconnell and his group from Massachusetts Audubon found this rarity, and it is still here today.
The insects at Guanahacabibes are dazzling, too.
Orthemis sp. (Antillean Red Skimmer)
We are impressed both by the efforts here to regenerate native forests and by the outreach programs which involve local schoolchildren. Several people in the group have brought school supplies which we leave for the reserve’s programs.
And the great giveaway of baseballs commences! Several people––Janet, Pat, Rich––have brought something like 50 baseballs and a glove. Throughout our trip, the kids who receive this largesse can’t contain their excitement.
And what about those hummingbirds? Plenty of big Cuban Emeralds are buzzing around.
And, yes indeed, here is the prize! Bee Hummingbirds! I was only able to photograph a female, and only her nondescript front––her back blazes with turquoise. Rich Wagner shot an excellent photo of the Bee Hummingbird, showing some of that turquoise on her flanks and back. Click here to link with his blog.
Dave’s devotees are all very happy at the end of the day, and some are clamoring for a toast with Vitamin R!
