By Guest Writer: Samantha Angba
There are days when I become obsessed with the idea of being one with nature. This includes hiking the trails of a peaceful jungle with the whistling wind, rustling leaves, and chirping birds. Then all of a sudden, reality hits and I am reminded that the jungle is filled with wild cats, snakes, mosquitos, and exhaustion.
My Much Needed Getaway
As a wife, mom, manager, business owner, and average human, I somehow landed in a place where my days are packed 24/7 and I am always on the clock. With this type of schedule, it is rare for me to have “me time”. I often hear people stressing about its importance (whatever ‘me time” is).
Getting invited to Black Rock Lodge by the owner Cameron was a huge highlight for my family. This was mainly because Covid punched us in the gut. Upon arriving at Black Rock Lodge to check in at the front desk, we were greeted with an extremely delicious rum punch and a welcoming smile. Much to my surprise, I could actually taste the soothing effects of the alcohol (if you know what I mean).
Birding at Black Rock Lodge
On our third day at Black Rock Lodge, after a vigorous hike for someone of my agility which was non-existent at the time, I signed up for an early birdwatching tour. Believe me when I say I regretted my decision when I woke up at 5:30am and my sore muscles reminded me of the day before.
However, I jumped out of bed and began getting ready to present myself for the beautiful birds of Belize.
Okay fine, I winced with every movement (leave me alone).
Belize has more than 600 species of birds and I am convinced Black Rock Lodge has over 300 of them. For example, the OBF also known as the Orange Breasted Falcon. This rare bird has made its home close to Black Rock. We got to see the Black and White Hawk Eagle having a wrestling match with the Orange Breasted Falcon. Apparently, the OBF was trying to date the eagle’s girlfriend’s brother’s daughter’s best friend or something like that, but we will not dwell on this type of telenovela.
Types of Birds at Black Rock Lodge
Moving on, we were fortunate enough to see the beautiful and colorful Northern Emerald Toucanet, White Collared Manakin, the Eye Ringed Flatbil, and the Collared Aracari. We also enjoyed the tunes of the melodious blackbird. My favorite birds are always hummingbirds. The fact that they are so small is what attracts me to them. I have an affinity for smaller versions of things that are normally big. For example, mini coke bottles, mini shopping carts, tiny homes, hummingbirds, baby animals, and of course my own little baby human.
Below is a list of some more birds that can be found at Black Rock Lodge. Baltimore Oriole, Scaly Breasted Hummingbirds, Brown Jay, Red Throated Ant Tanager, Black Cowled Oriole, Spot Breasted Wren, Black Cheeked Woodpecker, Social Flycatcher, Northern Rough Winged Swallow, Tropical Kingbird, and Gray Catbird. These are just to name a few.
After my slow paced stroll around the property while birdwatching, I hurried to take a refreshing dip in their spring-fed swimming pool. In that moment, I felt peace and serenity knowing that I just had a morning to myself to do as I pleased.
Why You Should Stay at Black Rock Lodge
Black Rock Lodge has an amazing team of knowledgeable guides, which is one of the many things that attracts people to the lodge. The restaurant overlooks the river and jungle, while sporting two large scopes in case you become interested in getting a closer look at a bird. Almost any guide you see around the property can identify almost any bird you come across. There is always a guide somewhere lounging around and waiting to share their immense knowledge.
They also have a friendly staff and delicious food and drinks. My favorite drink when I was there was the blue margarita on the rocks.
What to Bring on Your Birding Trip
- Comfortable footwear/Hiking shoes
- Eco-friendly Bug Spray
- Water
- Backpack with snacks
- Comfortable clothing
- A tip for the guide because he is AMAZING
If you would like to know more information about booking a room and birding at Black Rock Lodge, feel free to send me a message. Be on the lookout for a post coming very soon that will talk about my stay at Black Rock Lodge and everything else that I experienced.
Click here if you would like more information about activities to do in Belize.
Click here if you would like more information on other places to stay while in Belize.
