“Chasing Toucans: Costa Rica’s Vibrant Icons”

"A vibrant toucan peeks out from the rainforest foliage in Costa Rica’s Boca Tapada region, embodying the thrill of chasing these elusive birds through the wild."

Introduction

Costa Rica is home to one of the world’s most dazzling families of birds: toucans. Known for their vibrant colors and unmistakable bills, these iconic birds are a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. With six distinct species calling Costa Rica home, these vibrant birds are not only a delight to observe but also an essential part of the country’s diverse ecosystems. During my recent journey through Costa Rica, photographing toucans became a highlight of my trip. I captured four of the six toucan species found in Costa Rica, but there’s still more to see—looks like I’ll have to go back!

The Four Toucans I Photographed

1. Emerald Toucanet

Tucked away in San Gerardo de Dota’s cloud forests, the Emerald Toucanet stood out with its vivid green plumage and elegant demeanor. One of the highlights was spotting this compact toucanet walking along a wooden rail, a rare sight in the misty forest. Its subtle beauty against the lush green backdrop made it a rewarding subject to photograph, offering a peaceful contrast to the larger, more vibrant toucan species.

“Emerald Toucanet Toucan”   Photographed in San Gerardo de Dota, Costa Rica, displaying its vibrant green plumage.

2. Yellow-throated Toucan

The Yellow-throated Toucan, with its bold yellow throat and contrasting black body, is a true showstopper in Costa Rica’s rainforests. Seen in both Boca Tapada and Sarapiquí, this striking toucan is known for its loud, croaking calls that often led me to its perch high in the lush canopy. Its vibrant appearance and dramatic calls make it an exciting subject for wildlife photography.

"Yellow-throated Toucan”  Photographed in the Caribbean Lowlands of Costa Rica.

3. Collared Aracari

The Collared Aracari, a mid-sized toucan species with vibrant yellow, red, and green plumage, added a burst of color to the rainforests of Sarapiquí and Boca Tapada, Costa Rica. In Sarapiquí, these social birds were most active during the early mornings, providing perfect opportunities for photographers to capture their lively interactions and striking appearance.

“Collard Aracari Toucan”. Photographed in Sarapiqui, Costa Rica.

4. Keel-billed Toucan

The Keel-billed Toucan, famous for its vibrant “rainbow bill,” is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic birds. Its multicolored beak and bright yellow chest make it a striking subject for photography. I encountered this stunning toucan in the rainforests of Boca Tapada, where its playful calls echoed through the lush canopy.

“Keel-billed Toucan”. Photographed in Boca Tapada, Costa Rica

The Missing Toucans

Two species of toucans eluded me during this trip, each for a different reason:

• Fiery-billed Aracari: Known for its vibrant red and yellow bill, this toucan is one of the most colorful species in Costa Rica. Found on the Pacific slope, its habitat lies outside the areas I explored, making it a top priority for my next visit.

• Black-mandibled Toucan: Larger and more elusive, this toucan is distinguished by its darker bill and deep croaking calls. Despite visiting regions like Boca Tapada and Sarapiquí, where it is commonly found, this toucan skillfully avoided my lens.

Photographing these two species would complete my goal of capturing all six toucan species found in Costa Rica—a challenge I’m eager to tackle on a future adventure.

Why Toucans Matter

Beyond their beauty, toucans are crucial to rainforest health. By dispersing seeds, they help maintain biodiversity and ensure ecosystem sustainability. Protecting their habitats ensures the survival of countless other species.

"Feathered Gardeners”

Two Collared Aracaris Sharing a Tropical Feast. Photographed in the Sarapiqui region of Costa Rica.

Plan Your Toucan Photography Adventure

Photographing four out of six toucan species in Costa Rica was an unforgettable experience, but the adventure isn’t over. Whether you’re a wildlife photographer, birdwatcher, or nature enthusiast, Costa Rica is a haven for encountering these colorful birds in their natural habitat.

• When to Visit:
  The best time to see toucans in Costa Rica is during the dry season (December to April) when weather conditions are favorable. However, the rainy season offers lush greenery and unique opportunities for dramatic, misty landscapes, adding depth to your photographs.

• Where to Go:
  Top locations for spotting toucans include Boca Tapada, Sarapiquí, San Gerardo de Dota, and the Pacific slope. These regions offer diverse ecosystems and are prime habitats for toucan photography.

"Hidden in plain sight”

A Keel-billed Toucan perches among the branches of a dense rainforest, its vibrant colors blending with the lush canopy. Photographed in Boca Tapada, Costa Rica.

Watching a toucan take flight over Costa Rica’s lush rainforest is a vivid reminder of nature’s incredible beauty and the importance of preserving these fragile ecosystems. Encounters like these inspire not only a deeper connection to the wild but also the desire to protect it for generations to come.

“Soaring Above Costa Rica”

Inspired by the vibrant toucans and lush rainforests of Costa Rica? Explore more stunning wildlife and landscapes in my article, Exploring Costa Rica: A Nature Photographer’s Paradise.

Looking for more travel adventures? Start with one of articles from my unforgettable journey on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: Day 4 where the breathtaking Andes and ancient ruins create a photographer’s dream.

Have you chased Toucans? Share your favorite wildlife encounters or photography tips in the comments below—I’d love to hear your stories!

About the Author

"Hi, I’m Lona—a traveler and nature photographer sharing stories of adventure and connection. From vibrant toucans in Costa Rica to the Antarctica Peninsula, join me in exploring the wonders of the natural world."

Learn more: About Me