Costa Rica is home to an incredible diversity of toucans, and the Arenal region is one of the best places to spot them. From the brightly colored Keel-billed Toucan to the elusive Yellow-eared Toucanet, these charismatic birds add a splash of tropical brilliance to the rainforest.
Here’s a closer look at the toucans you might encounter—from the most common to the rarest—along with tips on where and how to find them.
Commonly Seen Toucans in Arenal
Yellow-throated Toucan (Ramphastos ambiguus)
Distinctive Features:
- Mostly black plumage with a striking yellow throat
- Large, two-toned bill (chestnut tip with a yellow base)
Behavior & Habitat:
Preferring forest edges and mid-level canopies, these toucans are often heard before they’re seen—their calls sound like a deep “Dios-te-de” (Spanish for “God-gives-you”).
Conservation Note: While still common, habitat loss threatens some populations.
Collared Aracari (Pteroglossus torquatus)
Distinctive Features:
- Smaller than a typical toucan
- Black head, yellow chest with a dark “collar,” and a serrated bill
- Red rump and thighs
Behavior & Habitat:
These social birds travel in noisy groups of 6–15 individuals, often roosting together in tree cavities. They love figs and other soft fruits.
Did You Know? Aracaris are part of the toucan family but have sleeker bodies and more vibrant markings than their larger cousins.
Keel-billed Toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus)
Distinctive Features:
- Rainbow-colored bill (green, orange, and blue)
- Black body with a bright yellow throat and chest
- One of Costa Rica’s most recognizable birds
Behavior & Habitat:
Often seen in small flocks, these toucans feed on fruits, insects, and even small reptiles. Their loud, frog-like croaks echo through the treetops, making them easier to locate.
Fun Fact: Despite its large size, the toucan’s bill is surprisingly lightweight—made of keratin (like human fingernails)!
Rare Mountain Toucans
Emerald Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus prasinus)
Distinctive Features:
- Small, emerald-green body with a white throat
- Blue-and-white-tipped bill
Behavior & Habitat:
Shy and quiet compared to other toucans, they dwell in cloud forests at higher elevations. Listen for soft, high-pitched calls.
Spotting Tip: Look for them in mossy trees—their green plumage provides perfect camouflage!
Yellow-eared Toucanet (Selenidera spectabilis)
Distinctive Features:
- Males: Black head with a yellow “ear” patch
- Females: Brown head with a smaller yellow patch
Behavior & Habitat:
Extremely rare in Arenal, these toucanets prefer dense, high-elevation forests. They’re more solitary than other toucans.
Why So Rare? Their limited range and secretive nature make sightings a special treat for birdwatchers.
The Pacific Coast Exclusive
Fiery-billed Aracari (Pteroglossus frantzii)
Distinctive Features:
- Fiery red-and-yellow bill
- Black belly with a red rump
Behavior & Habitat:
Endemic to Pacific lowland forests, this species is rarely seen near Arenal. They travel in small groups and nest in old woodpecker holes.
Did You Know? This is the only toucan in Costa Rica with a completely red upper beak!
