Toucans of Bijagua
Discover the five spectacular toucan species that call Bijagua home
Discover the five spectacular toucan species that call Bijagua home
Bijagua's exceptional biodiversity and healthy forest ecosystems make it one of the best places in Costa Rica to observe toucans in their natural habitat. The region's unique geographical position, where the Caribbean and Pacific slopes meet, creates diverse microhabitats that support thriving toucan populations. The abundance of fruit trees, nesting cavities, and varied elevation zones provides perfect conditions for these colorful birds.
Thanks to these factors, visitors to Bijagua have excellent chances of encountering multiple toucan species during their nature tours. Our expert guides know the best locations and times to maximize your birdwatching opportunities.
Ramphastos ambiguus
The Yellow-throated Toucan is one of the most common toucan species in Bijagua. They are often seen in the lower elevations of the Caribbean slope, where they feed on fruits, seeds, insects, and even small lizards and birds.
These toucans are known for their distinctive calls and social behavior. These are one of the easiest toucan species to spot in Bijagua and they're often seen flying around town.
Ramphastos sulfuratus
The Keel-billed Toucan is one of Costa Rica's most iconic birds and a highlight of any wildlife tour in Bijagua. Known for their massive, colorful bills and distinctive calls, these impressive birds are a must-see for nature enthusiasts. They're excellent seed dispersers and play a crucial role in forest ecology.
These toucans are often seen in small flocks, moving through the canopy in search of fruit. Their large bills are surprisingly lightweight and help them reach fruit that other birds cannot access.
Pteroglossus torquatus
The Collared Araçari is a small toucan with distinctive black and yellow plumage and a colorful bill. This species is often found in the lowland and foothill forests around Bijagua. They're highly social birds that travel in family groups.
These araçaris are excellent seed dispersers and play a vital role in forest regeneration. They're also known for their cooperative breeding behavior, where multiple family members have been observed helping raise the young.
Selenidera spectabilis
The Yellow-eared Toucanet is a stunning small toucan with distinctive yellow ear patches and a colorful bill. This species is a highlight for birders visiting the middle elevations around Bijagua. They're often found in the understory and mid-canopy levels of humid forests.
These toucanets are more much more secretive than their larger cousins and are often heard before they're seen. Their distinctive calls help birders locate them in the dense forest vegetation.
Aulacorhynchus prasinus
The Emerald Toucanet is a beautiful green toucan with a distinctive black and yellow bill. This species is commonly found in the cloud forests and higher elevations around Bijagua. They're excellent climbers and often forage in small groups.
These toucanets are known for their acrobatic feeding behavior, often hanging upside down to reach fruit. They also consume insects and small vertebrates, making them important predators in the ecosystem.