Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Red-throated Caracara
Scientific name: Ibycter americanus

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: FALCONIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: N/A
Gestation: N/A
Births: N/A
Habitat:
Tropical forests, wooded areas, forest edges
Description:
The Red-throated Caracara, Ibycter americanus, is a fascinating bird of prey belonging to the Falconidae family. It is distinguished by its bright red throat and black and white plumage. This bird is primarily found in the tropical forests of Central and South America, where it plays an important ecological role as a predator of insects and small vertebrates. The Red-throated Caracara is known for its social behavior, often observed in noisy family groups. It is also recognized for its ability to dislodge wasp nests, feeding on the larvae. Although its conservation status is currently "least concern," deforestation poses a potential threat to its natural habitat.
Recommended lens:
>=400mm
Photography tips:
To photograph the Red-throated Caracara, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance. As this bird is suspicious, it is best to remain discreet and blend into the environment to avoid startling it. Tropical forests offer variable lighting, so adjust your ISO settings accordingly to get sharp photos. Opt for times of the day when the light is soft to capture the bright colors of its red throat.
Ready to take action?
Choose your platform and start your free trial today