The Global Big Day (GBD) is popular among birdwatchers worldwide. It emerged from the creation of the eBird platform in 2002, and eBird launched to the general public in 2015, the same year of the first GBD. These citizen science days help maintain a data-based focus on science, conservation, and education through shared experiences in real-time (eBird, 2022).

Why have a Big Day at Tranquilo Bay? Why not? Every year we receive lovely groups of "birders" who come to enjoy the specialties of the western Panamanian Caribbean, and this year was no exception. To our surprise, one of our visitors, Tom Reed of Cape May, who visited us with a group of birdwatchers led by Mark Garland, decided to take the challenge of making his last day here a "Big Day."

During the Tranquilo Bay Big Day, our team included Tom Reed, Barbara Gordon, and local guide Brenda Sánchez. These two joined the fun activity despite the intermittent rain conditions that can happen when visiting the rainforest.

The day concluded with 80 species of birds observed from the gardens, trails, observation tower and surroundings of Tranquilo Bay. Among the species observed and heard were Parasitic Jaeger, Double-toothed Kite, Red-lored Parrot, Bronzy Hermit, Dot-winged Antwren, White-flanked Antwren, Gray-headed Dove, Shining honeycreeper, Stub-tailed Spadebill, and Uniform Crake.

Without a doubt, Tranquilo Bay is an exceptional place for all people who enjoy nature and especially birds. We know it is possible to see many birds in a day here, and we are ready to do it again with you.