Parrot Island is on the mighty Essequibo River over looking Bartica, from where you can charter a boat to view tens of thousands of parrots returning home at sunset.  This small island is preserved and protected by the authorities against poaching; there is no landing to enter the island.  However, visitors can observe from a boat—engine off—that drifts along the side.

Even if you are not a bird fanatic, the sheer volume of birds that return to sleep will amaze everyone, returning from all directions, literally 360 degrees.  The incoming birds travel in-groups and seem to know exactly which spot of the numerous trees they call home.  After landing, you will be deafening by the sound they make.  It’s a loud orchestra of whistle and holler as they organized themselves on the tiny island.  Other species of birds do call this island home but the pale is size compare to the parrots. 

As the night gets darker, you can hear a sharp sound from one of the parrot.  Local guides say that parrot is the king of them all and when he sounds off all the rest will be quiet.  Sure enough after that announcement by the “king” bird all are quiet; an amazing spectacle of nature.

Local guide: Balkaran Bhagwandas