Your wildlife photography guide.
Explore the yellow-throated toucan in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.
Where to observe and photograph the yellow-throated toucan in the wild
Learn where and when to spot the yellow-throated toucan in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the yellow-throated toucan’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.
Yellow-throated toucan
Scientific name: Ramphastos ambiguus

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: RAMPHASTIDAE
Group: Birds
Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious
Minimum approach distance: 20 m
Courtship display: June to August
Incubation: 16–18 jours
Hatchings: June to August
Habitat:
Tropical forests of Central America, mainly in Costa Rica and Panama, often in woodlands and near water
Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.
Identification and description:
The Yellow-throated Toucan is a colorful bird found primarily in the tropical forests of Central America, notably in Costa Rica, Panama, Nicaragua, and Honduras. It typically measures about 50 cm in length and weighs between 400 and 600 g. Its plumage is mainly black, with a bright yellow throat and chest, and it has a wide, colorful bill, typically yellow with touches of red and orange. The Yellow-throated Toucan is primarily frugivorous, feeding on fruits, berries, and nuts, but it can also consume insects and small vertebrates. It generally lives in small social groups and is an excellent climber, spending much of its time in trees. While it remains relatively stable in certain areas, it is sometimes threatened by deforestation and habitat loss.
Recommended lens:
300 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.
Photography tips:
Use a telephoto lens to photograph the yellow-throated toucan, especially when it perches on trees or in the canopy. The soft light of early morning or evening is ideal for capturing its vibrant colors and large, distinctive beak. Be discreet and respect their space to avoid disturbing their natural behavior, especially during the breeding season.
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