Volunteer and Adventure
Wildlife Conservation

Exotic Birdlife of Fiji: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

GVI

Posted: March 9, 2023

Fiji is a tropical paradise with a vast array of exotic birds to observe. From colourful parrots to tiny migratory warblers, the archipelago nation has plenty to offer both novice and seasoned bird watchers alike. In this blog, we will explore the best times of year to visit Fiji for bird watching, essential gear to bring, ideal locations to explore, popular bird watching tours, and regulations to follow to protect the local wildlife and environment.

Unique Species of Birds in Fiji

Fiji is home to over 100 species of native birds, with an additional 41 rare, exotic species of migratory seabirds and shorebirds that visit during certain times of year. Some of the most common birds you’ll see in this area are sac-winged bats, collared kingfishers, metallic starlings, rufous paradise kingfishers, night herons, and great frigatebirds.

In addition to these species, Fiji is also home to a variety of rare and endangered birds, such as the Fiji petrel, the orange fruit dove, and the red-throated lorikeet. These birds are protected by the government and are monitored closely to ensure their continued survival. Bird watching is a popular activity in Fiji, and visitors can often spot these rare species in the wild.

The Best Times of Year to Visit

The best time of year to visit Fiji if you’re a bird watching enthusiast is mid-May to mid-August. This is when you’re most likely to see migratory species such as the wedge-tailed shearwater, the pink-footed shearwater, and Buller’s shearwater. Additionally, July and August are the months when most of the seabird colonies can be seen nesting on many of Fiji’s islands.

The dry season in Fiji is from May to October, making it the ideal time to visit for those who want to avoid the wetter months. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging between 16°C and 28°C. This is also the best time of year for outdoor activities such as snorkelling, diving and hiking.

Tips for Bird Watchers in Fiji

Since the endemic birds of Fiji are mostly found in the forests, it’s important to take some basic precautions to minimise your environmental impact. Avoid trampling vegetation and potentially disturbing the habitats of wildlife, and always carry a pair of binoculars, sun protection and plenty of water. You should also be aware of any local regulations in the area.

It is also important to be respectful of the local culture and customs when bird watching in Fiji. Be sure to ask permission before entering private property, and be mindful of any cultural or religious sites that may be in the area. Additionally, it is important to be aware of any potential dangers in the area, such as dangerous wildlife or hazardous terrain. By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable bird watching experience in Fiji.

Ideal Locations for Bird Watching

Fiji offers numerous ideal spots for birding enthusiasts to explore, including forest reserves, mangroves and forested wetlands, scenic seascapes, and a whole host of tropical islands. Some of the top locations include Nacula Island, Colo-I-Suva Forest Reserve, Horseshoe Reef, Udu Point Bird Sanctuary, and Colo-I-Suva Forest Park.

Essential Gear for Bird Watching

Aside from the usual bird watching gear such as binoculars and a field guide, you’ll also need a few specific pieces of equipment for birding in Fiji. Insect repellent is a must, along with a good quality camera with long-range zoom capabilities, sturdy walking shoes and a hat with a wide brim. It’s also a good idea to bring along protective clothing in case you get caught in a sudden shower.

A young girl with bird watching binoculars.

Where to Find Accommodation

If you’re looking for accommodation near any of the top birding locations in Fiji, there are numerous options to choose from. Most of the major tourist centres offer resorts and hotels that are within easy reach of the best sites, while smaller resorts and lodges are also available in some parts of the country. Alternatively, if you’re looking for more of an authentic Fijian experience, many local guesthouses offer basic but comfortable accommodation.

Popular Bird Watching Tours in Fiji

For those who want to explore Fiji’s many birding hotspots without having to make all the arrangements themselves, there are a range of bird watching tours available. These typically take place over a few days or weeks, taking in multiple sites across the country while also providing expert guidance and information on spotting rare species.

Regulations and Guidelines for Bird Watching

The Department of Environment in Fiji has set some basic guidelines for bird watchers that must be followed at all times. Most notably, these include carrying out all observations from a distance to avoid disturbing the birds, not collecting or selling specimens of any kind, and not feeding wild birds or animals.

How to Respect Local Wildlife and Environments

Aside from following the regulations set out by the Department of Environment, it’s important that all bird watchers act responsibly when exploring Fiji’s various locations. This means disposing all waste properly, leaving no trace behind when camping overnight, not disturbing any local wildlife or habitats unnecessarily – and only visiting sites with permission from local communities.

Diverse and Fascinating Avian Life

Fiji is home to some truly unique birds and feathered creatures that vary widely across its many islands. If you love bird watching, then Fiji is definitely one of the best places on earth to explore this pastime. With such an abundance of unique species to observe in their natural habitats across a variety of landscape types, it’s easy to see why this sun-soaked archipelago has earned its place as one of the top 10 places for bird watching in the world.

Volunteering with GVI in Fiji is the perfect opportunity to explore this breathtaking tropical paradise while making a positive impact on its local communities and natural environment. You’ll have the chance to get involved in a wide range of projects, from marine conservation to education and community development.