Photographing the Yellow-eared Parrot in the high-altitude forests of Roncesvalles, Tolima, required a balance of patience, precision, and an understanding of light. These parrots, once critically endangered, have found sanctuary among the towering wax palms of Colombia’s cloud forests. As the golden hues of the setting sun cast a warm glow over the treetops, I seized the opportunity to document this remarkable species in its natural habitat.
Using my Canon R5, I paired the RF 800mm f/11 lens with a 1.4x extender, achieving an effective focal length of 1120mm. This combination allowed me to capture intricate feather details while maintaining enough distance to avoid disturbing the bird. The fading afternoon light meant adjusting my ISO to 800 to preserve detail without excessive noise. The camera selected a shutter speed of 1/250 second, which, combined with the R5’s impressive stabilization, resulted in a crisp, well-defined image despite the extended focal length.
Compositionally, the parrot’s position against the soft, defocused canopy created a natural contrast, drawing attention to its brilliant green and yellow plumage. The deep shadows and warm light emphasized the depth of the scene, adding a sense of atmosphere that conveyed the tranquility of the moment.
Roncesvalles offers one of the most biodiverse landscapes in Colombia, and conservation efforts here have been crucial in protecting species like the Yellow-eared Parrot. This image is more than just a photograph—it is a testament to the success of conservation initiatives and the resilience of nature when given the chance to recover.
©2024 Adam Rainoff Photographer
