Trinidad

Bird-Watching

Trinidad and Tobago are among the top 10 spots in the world in terms of the number of species of birds per square mile—more than 430, many living within pristine rain forests, lowlands and savannahs, and fresh- and saltwater swamps. If you're lucky, you might spot the collared trogon, Trinidad piping guan (known locally as the common pawi), or rare white-tailed Sabrewing hummingbird. Restaurants often hang feeders outside on their porches, as much to keep the birds away from your food as to provide a chance to see them. Both the Asa Wright Nature Centre and Caroni Bird Sanctuary are major bird-watching destinations.

Point-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust. This 26-acre haven for rare bird species is within the unlikely confines of a petrochemical complex; you must call in advance for a reservation. Petrotrin Complex, Point-a-Pierre, Trinidad. 868/658-4200 Ext. 2512.

Winston Nanan. Nanan, a self-taught ornithologist, knows the local fauna as well as his own children. He will arrange personal tours in his own car anywhere on the island. His business is based at the Caroni Bird Sanctuary, but his expertise makes a trip with him to the Northern Range or the northeast a must for just about any true bird-watcher. It won't be cheap (figure on $400-$500 a day), but the personal attention and his willingness to try to find rare species are well worth the expense. Trinidad. 868/645-1305.

More Sports and Outdoors

• Bird-Watching
• Fishing

• Golf
• Guided Tours