The Lettered Aracari (Pteroglossus inscriptus) is a fascinating and visually striking member of the toucan family. This particular individual was photographed in Restrepo, Meta, Colombia, during an urban bird walk with Egor Sanchez from PAU Colombia. Even in the midst of a developing town, the presence of mature trees and preserved green spaces continues to provide vital habitats for bird species like this, reinforcing the importance of conservation in both urban and rural settings.
The aracari perched on a moss-covered branch, its bright yellow chest contrasting against its sleek black plumage. Its bill, adorned with intricate natural markings, gives the species its name, appearing almost as if etched with delicate inscriptions. The soft, diffused light filtering through the canopy provided a natural highlight on its vibrant colors, while the blurred background created a depth that allowed the subject to stand out clearly.
To achieve this shot, I used a Canon R5 paired with the RF 800mm lens and a 1.4x extender. The image was captured at 1/90 second, f/16, and ISO 1600. The f/16 aperture was necessary due to the extender, ensuring sharpness and depth throughout the frame. Given the relatively low light conditions beneath the canopy, ISO 1600 provided the necessary sensitivity while maintaining a balance between noise control and detail retention. The slow shutter speed of 1/90 second was possible due to the camera’s stabilization, which allowed me to capture fine details without introducing motion blur.
Balancing exposure, movement, and available light is always a challenge in dense forest environments, but when the conditions align, they create a perfect moment worth preserving. The adaptability of species like the Lettered Aracari in urban-edge ecosystems is a testament to the resilience of nature and the importance of conservation efforts that support biodiversity in all landscapes.
©2023 Adam Rainoff Photographer
