Species profile
About this species
The Collared Aracari is a strikingly colourful toucan found across Central America & northern South America. It features a bold black head & breast, vivid yellow underparts with a red & black band across the belly, and a large serrated bill with intricate markings. This social species is often seen in small flocks, moving noisily through the forest canopy in search of fruit.
Collared Aracaris inhabit tropical & subtropical lowland forests, forest edges, & partially open woodland, typically at elevations below 1500 metres across Central America & north-western South America.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Collared Aracari with us in Costa Rica.
These departures are part of our Central America programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning shortly after dawn is ideal when aracaris are most active & the soft light enhances their vibrant plumage. The dry season - typically December to April in Central America - offers better visibility as forest undergrowth is less dense.
Position yourself near fruiting trees at the forest edge where aracaris regularly feed, as this gives clear sightlines & good background separation. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/800s to freeze movement, as these birds are highly active & rarely sit still for long. A telephoto lens of 400mm or more is recommended to fill the frame without disturbing the flock, allowing natural behaviour to unfold.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Collared Aracari
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.
