Wildlife in Antigua and Barbuda
Including Codrington Lagoon National Park and Great Bird Island. On the map.
The vibe
Wildlife watching here is largely marine, with opportunities to see sea turtles, dolphins, and colorful reef fish. The best time for birdwatching is during the migration seasons, but marine sightings are year‑round. Visitors usually join small, local guided tours that keep the experience intimate.
Codrington Lagoon National Park
Barbuda
CROIX / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Home to one of the largest magnificent frigatebird colonies in the Western Hemisphere, this expansive wetland lagoon features dense mangrove forests teeming with avian life. Travelers come to witness thousands of frigatebirds during their dramatic mating rituals, inflating their bright red throat pouches.
Access. Reached by water taxi or guided boat tour from the village of Codrington on Barbuda.
Notes. Best visited during the breeding season (September through April) for optimal frigatebird viewing.
Great Bird Island
Antigua
David Stanley / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
This offshore island is a vital sanctuary for the critically endangered Antiguan racer snake, as well as nesting colonies of brown pelicans, red-billed tropicbirds, and magnificent frigatebirds. The rugged coastal scrub and surrounding turquoise waters offer exceptional wildlife viewing in a protected insular habitat.
Access. Accessible via organized boat excursions or private charters departing from the northeast coast of Antigua, such as from Parham or Seatons.
Notes. Visitors must stay on designated paths to protect nesting seabirds and the fragile habitat of the Antiguan racer.