Caracara

We create art prints to introduce and promote conservation of the neotropic birds. Our products aim to achieve accurate scientific portrayals of the species displayed. Our brand is inspired by the red-throated Caracara (Ibycter americanus).

Our posters measure 19”x27”. The are printed on 250g recycled beige algae paper. This material produces a matte finish that allows you to appreciate very accurately the lines of the illustrations. By containing recycled material, the natural fibers used can be perceived. Our scientific illustrations allow us to show the species portrayed with high fidelity. The posters are accompanied by stickers and an information sheet on the distribution and diet the species. The packaging is made of kraft material and is designed to be able to transport the poster safely to its final destination.

Who Are We

The Red-throated Caracara in Costa Rica

This raptor, related to the falcons, is found from southern Mexico to southern Brazil and is typically associated with forested habitats. It has a very specialized diet, feeding heavily on wasp larvae, which it obtains by attacking nests until the adult wasps abandon them. Despite its uniqueness, very little is known about this raptor’s natural history.

Although the Red-throated Caracara (Ibycter americanus) has a relatively large geographic range, its population in Central America has declined dramatically over recent decades, making the species extremely difficult to find today. This decline is particularly puzzling, as the species has disappeared even from areas where forest cover remains intact.

In Costa Rica, recent sightings have occurred in the Osa Peninsula in the far south and in the northern region of the country. It was in this northern region that our project began in 2013, when we started monitoring a group of Red-throated Caracaras living in remnant forest patches on a cattle farm near Monterrey, San Carlos. During two field seasons (2013 and 2018), we were able to identify a nest site—the first ever recorded in Costa Rica—and collect invaluable data on the species’ behavior and social cooperation. Using cameras, we recorded photographs, video, and audio, and successfully documented fledglings from both nesting attempts.

During several visits in May 2020, the birds were again observed visiting the nest site and entering and exiting the nest. However, after two weeks of observation, they stopped visiting the area. Through the Ibycter Project, our goal is to continue generating data on all aspects of this species’ natural history throughout the year, in order to better understand its ecological needs and the reasons behind its disappearance. This information is critical for developing effective conservation actions.

Monitoring visits continued throughout 2021 and 2022, with several sightings recorded. Unfortunately, during this period it was not possible to locate or confirm an active nesting site.

In 2023, Caracara Costa Rica invested in wildlife recording devices, which were installed on the farm to allow continuous monitoring of the Ibycter americanus family. We are pleased to report that these devices have already produced valuable recordings, and we have continued visiting the site to collect additional data.

In early 2024, GPS devices were generously donated by Birding Experiences, allowing the research team to intensify monitoring efforts. After more than a year of sustained fieldwork, on November 26, 2025, the first individual of the species—a male—was successfully banded and fitted with a GPS device. Four days later, during another field visit, a second individual (a female) was banded and equipped with a GPS transmitter. The birds were named Toño (short for Antonio) and Francisca, after the farm caretakers who have been an invaluable support to the project. Their constant reports and observations have been extremely helpful.

Since then, we have been receiving remarkable data on habitat use and behavior. The next step is to continue follow-up observations to deepen our understanding of the species’ natural history. Reports of other possible family groups have also reached the team, and monitoring of these areas is currently underway.

Caracara Costa Rica is supporting the project by donating a portion of every purchase made. However, much remains to be done, and much remains to be learned about this extraordinary bird. For this reason, we are seeking cooperation through donations to support our ongoing fieldwork in Costa Rica. We have assembled a dedicated team of capable and hardworking volunteers, but we need your help to move into the next phase of the project.

Our Vision

Become a successful entrepreneurship and by doing so retribute with funds to lean and protect the populations of Red-Throated Caracara in Costa Rica.

Our Mission

To promote the knowledge and awareness of Neotropical species of birds. And to show the beauty of the birds of Costa Rica.

Our Goal

To provide a product with highest standards of quality and satisfaction to our clients. And by doing so reassuring that they are being part of the conservation projects that we support.

Team Members

Diego Quesada

Professional Tourist Guide​

He has been a certified naturalist and birdwatching guide since 2002, with experience guiding tourists of all ages and nationalities throughout Costa Rica.

William Vega​

Naturalist

William Vega is a professional in law, specialized in human rights. He is also a naturalist and wildlife buff.

Andrew Guttenberg​

Illustrator

He is a wildlife illustrator, and has been focusing specifically on birds for the last 17 years.