Birds of Costa Rica

First visited this country 4 years ago, but wanted to go back ever since. I managed to go on a 3 week trip earlier this year. While the focus wasn't specifically birds, we had a few to choose from. The main target species here were the King Vultures, and we got very lucky indeed. We spent a while focusing on hummingbirds though and had a go at a few different ways of photography. One thing I never thought I'd do though, is use a macro lens for birds! Can't wait to be back...

CC very welcome, as always

You got some gorgeous shots of exotic birds. Well done. We visited Panama last January and are sure to go back. Again, great shots.

Great shots! Which part of CR did you see the aracari and the king vulture in? We only saw a king vulture in flight in the Osa Peninsula and despite our best efforts, never did get to see an aracari.

Thank you

Scrumhalf wrote in post #18077366
Great shots! Which part of CR did you see the aracari and the king vulture in? We only saw a king vulture in flight in the Osa Peninsula and despite our best efforts, never did get to see an aracari.

Most of these were at the other end of Costa Rica, in a place called Santa Rita near Boca Tapada 8 miles or so from the Nicaraguan border. There's a (photography-focused) lodge called Laguna Del'Lagarto (run by Bence Mate) and they've got a fabulous hide for the King Vultures. The Aracarai was at the same lodge, but that's from the veranda. No hides needed... They're not shy at all provided there's a supply of bananas close by (untill that is, the Coati's come along and loot the lot).

I've been to the Osa Peninsula on a previous trip and Corcovado National Park is easily one of my favourite places on earth! Unfortunately I don't think you can find the Collared Aracari there (but I believe the Firey Billed can be seen there). I think even Toucans - you don't get the Keel-Billed there but plenty of Chestnut Mandibled Toucans around. My next trip there will probably include substantial time at both the Osa Peninsula and Laguna del Lagarto again.

If it helps, I also got to see the Aracari's in Tortuguero National Park, but photographically the opportunity wasn't as good as Laguna del Lagarto.

Thanks! We did spend 5 days on the same trip around Arenal and took a day trip to Cano Negro. But didn't see any aracari unfortunately. I posted several series of CR birds last year. Search for Costa Rica in the title and you'll find them. Thanks for sharing your photos! I would like to visit again, although my son wants to go to Panama next time!