BirdGuides

20 World of Birds • 2023 www.birdguides.com TEN OF THE BEST the island at all altitudes, from sea level in cities such as Kingston to remote forests high in the Blue Mountains. Alternatively The very similar Black-billed Streamertail is found in eastern Jamaica, while other incredible hummers include Marvelous Spatuletail in Peru, the tiny Bee Hummingbird in Cuba, and many more. Great Grey Owl Why? In a family packed with jaw-dropping species, Great Grey Owl stands out for a number of reasons. Its large stature and unique appearance with a huge head, facial disk with concentric rings, and white ‘eyebrows’ looking like an old man’s, mean that it is loved by birders and Harry Potter fans alike. Its chosen habitats of remote taiga or mountain forests add to the allure. To watch one of these owls hunting in a meadow on a sunlit summer’s night is one of birding’s great experiences. Where? Sweden, Finland, Canada and the western USA o er good chances. Alternatively There are so many amazing owls to choose from – Blakiston’s Fish Owl in Japan, Snowy Owl in the Arctic and Pel’s Fishing Owl in Africa to name but three. That concludes a very di cult-to- pick list. Sincere apologies for the omission of the likes of Resplendent Quetzal, any kiwi or cassowary, Kagu, any one of a number of bird-of-paradise, pitta or antpitta species, Helmet Vanga and many, many others. This ‘best of the best’ rundown of the world’s birds could most definitely use a few more instalments ... ■ SIMON PAPPS Hyacinth Macaw Why? Simply an amazing, top-class wildlife experience to see the world’s largest (in terms of length) and most magnificent parrot species. It’s impossible not to be impressed by the huge size of the birds, the outrageous bright blue colour and the incredible noise as they feed or squabble in an acuri palm. The presence nearby of numerous other fantastic birds, plus Jaguar, Giant Anteater and much more only adds to the appeal. Where? Brazil’s incredible Pantanal is the place of choice – the macaws are easy to find and give stunning views – while the range extends into Bolivia and Paraguay. Alternatively Other macaw spectacles include huge gatherings of Red-and-green Macaws and other species at clay licks in Peru. Wandering Albatross Why? The biggest wingspan of any bird. To see one of these majestic beauties gliding towards you on a pelagic, with such grace and e ortlessness, is an experience that will live long in the memory. Once attracted by a free meal they will often hang around almost at arm’s length. Where? Pelagics o Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, and cruises to Antarctica or in subantarctic waters o er excellent chances of a memorable encounter. Alternatively Other great albatrosses are equally spectacular – the Northern Royal Albatross colony on mainland New Zealand is a popular location. Red-billed Streamertail Why? There’s no experience like a hummingbird hovering at a feeder inches from your face – jewel-like, iridescent feathers, full of character, the sound, the air from their wings. There are hundreds of species to choose from – every one a gem – but perhaps my favourite is this astonishing Jamaican endemic with incredible tail streamers that flail around as it hovers. Where? All over KIT DAY Hyacinth Macaw is one of the many iconic birds easily seen in Brazil’s Pantanal. A pelagic trip off New Zealand can bring face- to-face views of Wandering Albatross. Great Grey Owl is an unmissable bird of northern latitudes. JOSH JONES