About Me

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Mission, Texas, United States
I'm Tiffany Kersten, a professional bird guide based in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. I spent 2021 traveling, birding, and gifting personal safety alarms to women birders I met on the trails along the way during my Lower 48 States Big Year. In 2022, I founded Nature Ninja Birding Tours, offering customized private tours in the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.

Trip Packing Checklists

Trip Packing Checklist for: 

Colombia: Northern; Western; Central 

Costa Rica: Rancho Naturalista 

Ecuador: Tandayapa Bird Lodge 

Hawaii: Islands & Seabirds 

Mexico: Oaxaca 

Panama: Canopy Tower; Canopy Lodge; Canopy Camp

Portugal: Birds & Wine 

Puerto Rico: Endemics 

Taiwan: Endemics 

Many of our participants are often first-time birding tourists! Not to fear. Here are some thoughts to consider for your trip! 

Documents:

  • Passport valid 6 months from date of exit from the country (for international tours only)
  • Copies of any medical prescriptions 
  • Copies of important documents (passport, etc)
Clothing:
  • Field clothing - should be lightweight and breathable 
  • Comfortable, non-field clothing for around the hotel/lodge
  • A light jacket or sweatshirt for evenings 
  • Rain jacket 
  • Wide-brimmed hat 
  • Taiwan - winter attire needed for approx 40 degree F temperatures in mountains
Footwear: 
  • Lightweight hiking shoes - waterproof is recommended
  • Comfortable sandals for around the hotel/lodge
  • Canopy Camp, Panama - calf height rubber boots required for our trip to see Harpy Eagle
Optics & Electronics: 
  • Binoculars - make sure they are waterproof! 
  • Cameras - you are welcome to bring them. Extra batteries, memory cards and charger are recommended. Ensure you have something to cover your camera with in the event of rain!
  • Canopy Camp, Panama - Small personal flashlight 
Personal Items:
  • Toiletries
  • Any prescription or non-prescription medications 
  • Insect Repellant 
  • Sunscreen 30+ SPF 
  • Refillable Water Bottle
Optional Useful Items: 
  • Field Guide 
  • Sunglasses
  • Ziploc bags 
  • Umbrella 
  • Hiking Stick(s) - somewhat cumbersome while birding, but bring them if you think you may need them! 
  • Spotting Scope (the guides will have two for our group, but you are welcome to bring your own if you desire)
  • Electrolytes, if desired. Days can be hot and humid - prepare to sweat a lot, especially in Panama at Canopy Tower & Canopy Camp!