Birding
Yap offers year-round birding opportunities of endemic and migratory species
With a land area of only 38.7 square miles, Yap offers lush tropical forest, grassland, savanna and scrubby brush as well as low-lying wetlands that are particularly important to migratory birds. Yap is also blessed with several indigenous species: Yap Greater White Eye and the Plain White Eye.
Yap’s unique ancient stone walking paths are readily accessible and an excellent way to enjoy the interior of the forest and its inhabitants. Due to the nearly constant presence of both sun and rain with an average daytime temperature of 86o, the shimmering greenery and foliage is unsurpassed. Hibiscus, orchid, ironwood, eucalyptus, mahogany, papaya, banana, coconut palm, cherry, soursop, plumeria, bread fruit, banana, cassava, taro, papaya, betel nut and a variety of medicinal plants are the perfect environment for the island’s fauna.
The lack of any predatory animals, or of snakes, allows the whole family to enjoy Yap’s abundant environment. Local guides can take you on a unique island adventure in a single day due to the relatively compact nature of the island’s ecosystems.
Note: Trails, lands, beaches and reef areas are privately owned. When entering these areas, please follow the designation of a local guide.
Yap state, IBA Code FSM016, is treated separately as part of one Endemic Bird Area, (192) the East Caroline Islands.
- Land area: 100 km2 / 38.7 square miles
- Altitude: 0 – 150 meters
- Average Temp: 30c / 86f
The Birds
Yellow Bittern![]() |
Yap Greater White Eye![]() |
Yap Monarch![]() |
White Tern![]() |
White Browed Rail![]() |
Whimbler![]() |
Wandering Tattler![]() |
Sooty Tern![]() |
Ruddy Turnstone![]() |
Red Footed Booby![]() |
Pacific Reef Heron![]() |
Nutmeg Mannikin![]() |
Micronesian Pigeon![]() |
Lesser Golden Pover![]() |
Great Frigate Bird![]() |
Great Crested Tern![]() |
Cardinal Honeyeater![]() |
Brown Noddy![]() |
Brown Boobey![]() |
Bridled White Eye![]() |
White Tailed Tropicbird![]() |
Black Noddy![]() |
Cicada Bird![]() |
Micronesian Starling![]() |
Black Neped Tern![]() |
Audubon Shearwater![]() |
Rufous Fantail![]() |
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