Deforestation, hunting, and illegal trafficking threaten the migratory bird populations in Panama.

The extinction of migratory birds can have ecological consequences, such as an increase in pests that affect crops and forests. Each year, MiAmbientePanamá serves as a resting, feeding, and refuge point for numerous migratory bird species, many of which face some degree of threat or are endangered. These birds cross continents and oceans, following routes they have traveled for generations, but now a third of them are threatened by deforestation, habitat alteration, hunting, and illegal trafficking, compounded by increasing pollution. The country is home to approximately 1,030 bird species, of which 177 are migratory, including the Northern Goshawk, the Protonotary Warbler, the Western Sandpiper, and the Scarlet Tanager, according to the 2025 edition of the List of Birds of Panama. Migratory birds also serve as indicators of the health of ecosystems. Their sensitivity to environmental changes allows for the observation of transformations in natural habitats, so their absence can have ecological effects, including an increase in pests that affect crops and forests. In 2025, Panama ranked first in Central America, with a total of 771 bird species observed. For their conservation, there are legal instruments aimed at protecting wildlife, including Law 24 of 1995 and its regulations through Decree 43 of 2004, which establish the prohibition of capturing, commercializing, or transporting species without the corresponding permits. The Ministry of Environment reported that there is also a National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2018-2050, which includes actions aimed at conserving areas important for endemic, resident, and migratory birds, with the support of specialized organizations. In recent years, birdwatching has gained popularity as a nature-related activity that generates benefits for local economies and promotes environmental awareness. Within the protected areas, there are routes used for this activity, including the Soberanía National Park, the Camino de Cruces National Park, the Chagres National Park, the Volcán Barú National Park, and the Metropolitano Natural Park. During birdwatching events organized by the Ministry of Environment, species such as toucans, parrots, hawks, herons, and migratory birds are observed, using binoculars and mobile applications for identification. The 2026 birdwatching event took place throughout the country. Data from eBird.org indicate that in 2025, Panama ranked 12th worldwide and first in Central America, with a total of 771 bird species observed during the event. As part of this achievement, a new bird species that had not been previously reported in the area was recorded in the Guna Yala indigenous territory biosphere, specifically in the community of Armila. In Guna Yala, the data loading and validation activities will continue this week. "Beyond the results obtained, the event also served to remember that the protection of biodiversity is a continuous task. The Guna Yala communities reaffirmed their commitment to continue working together to conserve their natural heritage and strengthen the connection between new generations and the Napgwana (Mother Earth)," said Arcadio Castillo, regional director of the Ministry of Environment. The birdwatching event that took place throughout the country received special attention in the province of Darién, considered one of the territories with the greatest biological richness in Panama and a fundamental refuge for numerous resident and migratory bird species. The Harpy Eagle, the national symbol and one of the most powerful and majestic birds of prey in the world, is among them. Its presence represents the importance of conserving the forested ecosystems of the region, according to the environmental ministry.