A Guide in Monteverde

Marshall S. Berdan (“Eco-Escapes to Central America,” March 3) saw only a handful of birds during his unguided walk at the Monteverde reserve in Costa Rica. I visited Monteverde a few years ago and took a walk with one of the reserve’s guides, whose experience made the difference. I saw dozens of native birds, including a quetzal.

Our guide’s ability to translate elusive sounds into bird sightings was amazing. I would urge anyone who visits Monteverde to pay the extra fee for the guide (and to take binoculars). Monteverde and the guided walk were a bit expensive by local standards but worth every penny considering the cost and effort of getting there.

BRYAN BAKER

Apple Valley