Wildwestbirds

Costa Rica

Continuing the life in bird Paradise

The rain forest canopy produces its own challenges. There is limited light, but excellent subject matter. It is possible to find places where the sun penetrates the trees in the early morning. From higher ground looking across and into the treetops, it is possible to get good images. On occasion, even a shady shot can portray the quiet, steamy atmosphere of the jungle.

Above: Orange-fronted Parakeet and Great Kiskadee

In the canopy, Orange-fronted Parakeet is caught in early morning sunlight while below on the forest floor, a delightfully colourful central American Whiptail and a Green Spiny Lizard hunt for insects.

Rose-throated Becard both Pacific (brown) and Caribbean (gray) can be seen in Guanacaste this Autumn

below: The Turquoise-browed Motmot

The bird of Guanacaste is the Motmot. Its flute like calls are the distinctive sound of the region. A gorgeous bird, again challenging to photograph under the canopy, in the rainforest.

The diverse avifauna is captivating, but there are subtle and unique differences. For example, a colourful species seen in North America, the Baltimore Oriole, evolves into the Streaked-backed Oriole in Central America.

The autumn migration is starting, and with the additional influence of the tropical storm Florence, Northwest Costa Rica is recording some interesting raptor species. Many Vultures including the elusive King Vulture, (sorry about bad picture quality) plus Osprey, accompanied by smaller hawks.

Above: Laughing Falcon photo taken at Rancho Armadillo

Laughing Falcon can be heard calling at Rancho Armadillo in Playas del Coco. Rancho Armadillo is a unique, privately managed 25 acre preserve of dry tropical forest with hotel accommodation.