Birds of Cuba

Cuba is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, boasting a rich avian diversity that is both unique and captivating. According to BirdLife International, the island has 28 designated Important Bird Areas (IBAs), highlighting its significance in global bird conservation. Over 370 bird species have been recorded in Cuba, including 27 species that are endemic to the island and 29 that are considered globally threatened. Cuba's large land area and strategic geographical position within the Caribbean make it a crucial hub for Neotropical migratory birds. The island serves as a vital stopover for 75 species passing through on their way south and a wintering ground for 86 species, making Cuba one of the most important countries for migratory birds in the region.


Of the 368 bird species reported in Cuba, approximately 42% breed on the island, while 70% are migratory, with around 114 species being regular winter residents. Among the breeding species, 135 are resident birds, including eight introduced species, and 14 arrive from South America to breed during the summer. Cuba is also home to six endemic genera—Cyanolimnus, Starnoenas, Xiphidiopicus, Ferminia, Teretistris, and Torreornis—highlighting the island's unique evolutionary history. In total, there are 28 endemic bird species, including the world’s smallest bird, the Bee Hummingbird (Mellisuga helenae), and 60 endemic subspecies. These endemic birds and their habitats are a testament to Cuba's incredible biodiversity and the critical importance of its conservation efforts.

Cuban Endemics

E. Bare-legged Owl

E. Bee Hummingbird

E. Blue-headed Quail-dove

E. Cuban Black-hawk

E. Cuban Bullfinch

E. Cuban Gnatcatcher

E. Cuban Grassquit

E. Cuban Green Woodpecker

E. Cuban Oriole

E. Cuban Parakeet

E. Cuban Pygmy Owl

E. Cuban Solitaire

E. Cuban Tody

E. Cuban Tody

E. Fernandina's Flicker

E. Greater Antillian Nightjar

E. Grey-fronted Quail Dove

E. Gundalach's Hawk

E. Oriente Warbler

E. Red-shouldered Blackbird

E. Yellow-headed Warbler

E. Zapata Sparrow

E. Zapata Wren

E. Cuban Vireo

Regional Endemics

Cuban Crow

Cuban Emerald

Cuban Parrot

Cuban Pewee

Giant Kingbird

Great Lizard-Cuckoo

Loggerhead Kingbird

Plain Pigeon

Red-legged Thrush

West Indian Whistling Duck

West Indian Woodpecker

Western Spindalis