Episode 14 - The Costa Rican Bird Tree Party by the Beach

Cruising down a bumpy Costa Rican road toward the beach, where every drive feels like a scavenger hunt for feathers and surprises…Today’s story is about my favorite roadside discovery. This one tree sticking out of a mucky pond that’s basically a VIP lounge for birds. No matter the season, it’s always buzzing with guests. Cattle egrets, great egrets, ibis, night herons, blue herons,and the occasional kingfisher.It’s not accessible at all. The pond is a swampy mess of muck and water plants, which is exactly why the birds love it. Safe from predators, perfect for nesting, flying around or just hanging out like it’s happy hour.The moment that sticks with me happened a few days ago. I spotted the tree loaded like a feathered Christmas ornament, pulled over and started snapping from the road with my Nikon 180-600mm zoom lens. The light was that golden morning glow, making every feather pop.As a photographer this spot is both a gift and a tease. The birds are in the middle of the pond, so my zoom is essential and the light changes fast. But that’s the adventure… Turning a quick drive into a stakeout.Watching all those different species crammed into one tree, sharing space without drama,, well, maybe a little drama… Reminded me that in a chaotic world we all need our own safe perch. A place to gather, rest and be ourselves among the mix.Episode Wild Photograph: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWzeuioEWba/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Follow the wild on Instagram, X + TikTok: @sarahlutkewild Prints & more: sarahlutkewild.com #WildlifePhotography #CostaRica #PuraVida