Habitat:
Tropical forests, wooded areas, forest edges

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and 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:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

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.