There are at least 25 bird species known to breed in Bermuda. Of these, 17 are considered permanent resident species.
The Bermuda Petrel is our only endemic bird while 7 species are considered native (White-tailed Tropicbird, Barn Owl, Mourning Dove, Common Ground Dove, Eastern Bluebird, Gray Catbird, White-eyed Vireo). Of note, the White-eyed Vireo, is an endemic sub-species. Newly colonised breeding species include the Killdeer and the Roseate Tern. There are also 3 winter visitors that are occasional breeders: Pied-billed Grebe, American Coot and Least Bittern.
Four seabird species visit the island to breed. The endangered Bermuda Petrel (Cahow) is endemic and breeds only in Bermuda. The White-tailed Tropicbird (Longtail) is found in other parts of the world, but Bermuda has the largest breeding population in the Atlantic and is an important stronghold for the species. The Common Tern has become an increasingly scarce breeder with only one or two pairs visiting annually, this species will likely become extirpated in the near future. Roseate Tern have colonised recently and bred. We will have to wait and see if an established breeding population develops in Bermuda.
Click on the images below for more information about the birds.
(Illustrations courtesy of David Wingate)
