Capturing the Wild: Bird Photography on the Rio Frio in Cano Negro
Tropical Birds of the Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge. Gliding down the Rio Frio in the heart of the Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge, I was surrounded by the sights and sounds of Costa Rica’s incredible tropical birdlife. This remote biodiverse paradise is a dream for bird lovers and photographers alike.
Here are 7 of those Tropical birds.
Common Potoo (Nyctibius griseus)
A master of camouflage, the Common Potoo blends seamlessly into tree branches during the day, remaining motionless to avoid detection.
This nocturnal bird uses its large eyes and wide mouth to catch flying insects at night.
Its haunting call is often heard before the bird itself is ever seen.
Green Heron (Butorides virescens)
The Green Heron is a small but skillful hunter, known for using bait—such as insects or leaves—to lure fish to the surface.
With its deep green plumage and sharp beak, it waits patiently along riverbanks before striking with precision.
Though often solitary, it thrives in wetlands across Central and North America.
Ringed Kingfisher (Megaceryle torquata)
One of the largest kingfishers in the Americas, the Ringed Kingfisher is easily recognized by its rufous belly, blue-gray back, and loud rattling call.
It perches over rivers and lakes, diving headfirst to snatch fish with its powerful beak.
This species is a common sight along Costa Rica’s waterways, adding vibrant color to the landscape.
Anhinga (Anhinga anhinga)
Often called the “snake bird” for its long, slender neck, the Anhinga swims with only its head above water while hunting for fish.
Unlike most water birds, it lacks waterproof feathers, allowing it to dive deeply but requiring frequent sunbathing to dry off.
Its striking black-and-white plumage makes it a distinctive sight in tropical wetlands.
Great Egret (Ardea alba)
Elegant and unmistakable, the Great Egret is a large wading bird with brilliant white plumage, a long S-shaped neck, and dagger-like yellow bill.
It stalks shallow waters for fish, amphibians, and small mammals, striking with lightning speed.
Once threatened by the plume trade, this species has rebounded and is now a conservation success story.
Purple Gallinule (Porphyrio martinicus)
With its iridescent blue-green feathers, bright red beak, and oversized yellow feet, the Purple Gallinule is one of the most colorful wetland birds.
Agile and light, it walks effortlessly across floating vegetation in search of seeds, insects, and small aquatic creatures.
Its striking appearance and acrobatic movements make it a favorite among birdwatchers.
Northern Jacana (Jacana spinosa)
The Northern Jacana is known for its long toes, which help it walk across lily pads and floating vegetation without sinking.
Males take on the unusual role of single parenting, raising chicks while females mate with multiple partners.
Their sharp calls and bold black-and-golden plumage make them a charismatic presence in tropical wetlands.