Great Birding Locations
1. La Selva Biological Station – Located in the Sarapiquí region, La Selva is a world-renowned research station with miles of forest trails. Here, you can spot colorful species like the Great Green Macaw, Keel-billed Toucan, and Snowy Cotinga. The station provides opportunities to photograph birds up close, often with direct access to trails and observation towers.
2. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve – Monteverde’s misty cloud forest is a prime location for photographing elusive highland species like the Resplendent Quetzal. This area is particularly magical in the early morning as mist shrouds the forest, giving a moody and ethereal backdrop to your bird photography.
3. Carara National Park – Situated on the Central Pacific coast, Carara is known for its easy-to-navigate trails and a high density of species, including the Scarlet Macaw and the Fiery-billed Aracari. Carara’s mix of wet and dry forests provides a range of lighting and landscape options for photographers.
4. Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park – For a truly wild experience, the Osa Peninsula is the place to go. Its rich biodiversity, dense rainforests, and secluded beaches offer photographers a wide variety of backdrops for bird shots. You’ll find species like the Black-cheeked Ant Tanager, a Costa Rican endemic, as well as other species like Harpy Eagles and King Vultures.
5. Arenal Volcano Area – Around Arenal Volcano, the lush forests and wetlands draw species like the Emerald Tanager, Black-throated Trogon, and the Crested Guan. The diverse vegetation and dynamic landscape of the volcano’s vicinity make it an exciting destination for any bird photographer.
Tips for Successful Bird Photography in Costa Rica
1. Use the Right Equipment
A telephoto lens is essential for bird photography, ideally something in the 300-500mm range to capture birds without disturbing them. Bring a sturdy tripod or monopod to keep shots steady, especially in the dense forests where lighting can be low.
2. Master Low-Light Techniques
Since many bird species are found in shaded forests, it’s essential to be comfortable with lower light settings. Use a high ISO when necessary and familiarize yourself with your camera’s noise reduction settings to avoid grainy images. Costa Rica’s early mornings and late afternoons can provide beautiful natural light, so plan your shots during these hours for optimal lighting.
3. Capture Behavior, Not Just Portraits
Some of the most engaging bird photos capture birds in motion or interacting with their environment, like feeding, preening, or building nests. Take time to observe bird behavior and anticipate moments to capture these dynamic shots.
4. Be Patient and Silent
Patience is critical in bird photography, especially in Costa Rica’s jungles where birds can be challenging to spot. Keep quiet to avoid startling them and observe from a distance to give the birds space.
