What is your favorite bird species?

Choosing just one favorite bird is nearly impossible—the world is full of breathtaking species! But on our little island of Cuba, three birds hold a special place in our hearts:
Bee Hummingbird (Mellisuga helenae) – The world’s tiniest bird!

Cuban Tody (Todus multicolor) – A burst of vibrant colors.

Blue-headed Quail Dove (Starnoenas cyanocephala) – A living relic of evolutionary history.

What are your names, and where do you live?

We’re Ernesto Reyes Mouriño and Tania Piñeiro, the duo behind E&T Birding Tours. Ernesto is a biologist, professional bird guide, and wildlife photographer (Instagram: @wildphotoernest). Tania is also a professional bird guide and nature photographer (Instagram: @birding_cuba_tania).

Our favorite home base is nestled in Cuba’s Zapata Swamp Biosphere Reserve, where we’ve created Rocío’s Garden—a paradise for birdwatching and bird photography. Visit us here:
Google Maps Link 1 | Google Maps Link 2

What are the main regions or locations you cover as a bird guide?

We organize birdwatching and bird photography tours across Cuba, showcasing the island’s most spectacular avian hotspots.

Cuban Trogon

How long have you been a bird guide?

With over 15 years of experience, we’ve shared Cuba’s birdlife with enthusiasts from around the world.

Yellow-headed Warbler

How did you get into bird guiding?

We are passionate about nature and birds, and guiding were part of our professional jobs. Today, we’re proud to be among Cuba’s Top 10 eBirders!

Cuban Emerald

What are the aspects of being a bird guide that you like best? Which aspects do you
dislike most?

We adore sharing our knowledge of Cuba’s birds with fellow enthusiasts, exploring diverse cultures, and forging lifelong friendships. Plus, we’re committed to conserving habitats and raising awareness about threatened species.

Cuban Oriole

What are the top 5-10 birds in your region that are the most interesting for visiting birders?

• Bee Hummingbird – The world’s smallest bird!
• Cuban Tody – A dazzling Caribbean gem.
• Cuban Trogon – Cuba’s national bird.
• Blue-headed Quail Dove – The “Caribbean Dodo” with ancient roots.
• Yellow-headed & Oriente Warblers – Unique to Cuba’s endemic family Teretistridae.
• Zapata Sparrow – A rare and localized species.
• Zapata Wren – Endangered and found only in Zapata Swamp.
• Cuban Pygmy Owl – A tiny, diurnal owl.
• Bare-legged Owl – A nocturnal Cuban endemic

Cuban Pygmy Owl

Can you outline at least one typical birdwatching trip in your area? Please briefly
describe the locations, the key birds, and the approximate duration of such a trip.

Our 7- to 12-day tours (private or small groups of 6–10) span western to central Cuba, including:

• 2 days in Viñales (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• 3 or 4 days in Zapata Swamp (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve & Ramsar Site) – Home to 22 of Cuba’s 28 endemics!
• 1 or 2 days in Trinidad City (UNESCO Heritage Site)
• 2 days in Cayo Coco – A pristine coastal birding haven.
• 1 or 2 days in Havana City

Zapata Wren

What other suggestions can you give to birders interested in your area?

• Best season: October to April.
• Essentials: Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a sense of adventure!
• We’ll provide a detailed packing list based on your travel dates.

Cuban Parakeet

If any readers of 10,000 Birds are interested in birding with you, how can they best contact you?

• Emails: [email protected] | [email protected]
• WhatsApp: +1 850 966 3687

Oriente Warbler

Is there anything else you would like to share with the readers of 10,000 Birds?

We encourage birders to choose eco-conscious travel—your adventures support local communities and conservation efforts. Follow and share the work of creators (like us!) who strive to protect these magical places. Together, we can keep Cuba’s birds and their habitats thriving.

Ready to explore Cuba’s avian treasures? Let’s plan your dream birding trip today!