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.
Limpkin
Scientific name: Aramus guarauna

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: ARAMIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: N/A
Gestation: N/A
Births: N/A
Habitat:
Marshes, lake edges, rivers
Description:
The Limpkin, or Aramus guarauna, is a medium-sized wading bird easily identified by its brown plumage speckled with white and its long, slightly curved bill. It primarily inhabits marshes, lake edges, and rivers in Central and South America. This bird is often seen foraging for snails, its main food source, which it skillfully extracts from their shells using its specialized bill. The Limpkin is a solitary bird but can be seen in small groups during the breeding season. Its piercing, mournful call is often heard at dawn and dusk, adding a mysterious ambiance to marshy landscapes.
Recommended lens:
>=400mm
Photography tips:
To photograph the Limpkin, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images without disturbing the bird. Look for marshy areas where it is likely to forage, and be patient, as this bird can be suspicious. The best times to observe it are early morning or late afternoon, when its silhouette stands out beautifully against the calm water. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and adjust your shutter speed to capture its quick movements as it searches for snails.
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