November 17-20: Region: Arenal Volcano (Arenal Observatory)
These regions are higher elevation, and are cloud-forest environments. The weather was rainy and foggy sometimes, and forest conditions were often darker and much more challenging for photos and for clear sightings.
We had a good guide each morning, and in the afternoons we were on our own for exploring and identifying. Our list was significantly longer because of the immediate identification by our guide.
The lodge where we stayed was designed for people who want to appreciate nature and birds and wildlife. Once or twice a day, they fed fruit to attract birds; but we mostly found our birds by hiking and exploring. We pushed Rita’s limits for terrain and distances in this region, given that she deals with some foot pains. But she was a trooper and saw everything that we were trying to reach.
Photos are of a lesser quality in this post, because I value the accomplishment of photographing unusual birds or very secretive birds–even when the light is low, I only got a quick glimpse, or I couldn’t hold the camera still enough. Many of these aren’t print-worthy, but they matter to me. I posted some poorly exposed photos because they are the only ones I have of some great birds. That’s a little hard on my pride. 🙂
All photos are the property of Merle Nisly.
This is such an amazing experience. I am sure you will treasure these pictures and memories for many years.
You’re right about that. Doing these posts is a way for us to relive and document it all.