Sometimes we have to walk to achieve some birds, like the Golden-headed Quetzal. I am a photographer of birds; observing is not my pleasure. For that reason, when I walk, I am going with high certainty to catch the species I am looking for with my camera, like the Golden-headed Quetzal. Tours: Retorno Photo Tours #goldenheadedquetzal #quetzal #birds #birdsonearth #colombia🇨🇴 #photographer #birdphotography #birdphototours

The Green Jay (#cyanocoraxyncas) might be among the most fascinating birds to capture on camera, especially with its striking yellow eye and blue crest. A great aspect of photographing green jays is the abundance of opportunities, as they typically reside in small groups of 5-6 for improved foraging, protection from predators, and social learning. These small groups enable them to locate food more effectively, remain safe, and reinforce social connections, which are crucial for survival and successful breeding. For that reason, they gather in locations for your benefit. www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #greenjay #greenjays #cyanocoraxyncas #birds #jays #phototours #birdsphotography #birdwatchingphotography #photographer #colombia🇨🇴

Andean Potoo, Colombia East Andes, during a Hummingbird expedition. www.retornophototours.com #andeanpotoo #potoo #potooftheday #birds #birds_captures #birdsofinstagram #phototravel ours

The Rainbow Hummingbird 🌈 is one of the most desired hummingbirds for Bird Photographers in Colombia 🇨🇴, but this little guy is not as easy as you think. As a guide, it is essential to understand this hummingbird’s behaviour to guide your team in achieving a wonderful photograph of it, in addition to knowing where it is. #rainbowbeardedthornbill #rainbowbearded #hummingbirdsofinstagram #hummingbirds #hummingbirdspk #birdphotography #birdphotographersofinstagram #birdphotographer #birdphotographersofindia #birdphototours #colombia🇨🇴

I still can't believe what I felt when the sword-bellied hummingbird perched on my finger and looked at me. It was such a special moment - this incredible bird is what sparked my love for bird photography 11 years ago. Even now, it amazes me that a hummingbird exists with a bill longer than its own body!! Thanks to @glopezespina for taking me this wonderful picture. Special moment during the last photo tour in Colombia. www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #swordbilledhummingbird #hummingbirdsofinstagram #humingbird #colombia #birdphotography #birdphotographyuk #birdphoto

The Scrub Tanager (NE) is relatively common in Colombia and Ecuador. You will have multiple opportunities to photograph them on our tours. #scrubtanager #birds #birdsonearth #nearendemicspecie #colombia #phototour

Are you seeing an angry hummingbird? I present to you the Buff-winged Starfrontlet, one of my favourite hummingbirds. It is quite elusive for photographing. During the photo tours, you can learn techniques for capturing really good pictures of these hummingbirds—it's a challenge that is worth the effort. www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #retrnophototourscolombia #buffywingedstarfrontlet #hummingbirds #hummingbirdsofinstagram #hummingbird #hummingbirdworldtour #hummingbirdsphotography

Silver-throated Tanager. This tanager fascinated me 10 years ago when I photographed this species for the first time. #silverthroatedtanager #tanagers #tanagersofinstagram #birdsofinstagram #birds_nature #birdphotography #colombia🇨🇴

Hooded Mountain Tanager junior very scare. #hoodedmountaintanager #tanagers #tanagersofinstagram #birdsofinstagram #birds #birdphotography #birdphototours

Retorno Photo Tours Fiery-throated Hummingbird www.retornophototours.com #fierythroatedhummingbird #hummingbirds #birdphotography #birdphotographer

Colombia has nearly 175 hummingbirds, the most biodiverse country in the world. If you are a hummingbird addict, Colombia is the right place to photograph some of them. 1. Green-bearded Hemmetcrest (E) 2. Butterfly Coquette 3. Glowing Puffleg 4. Golden-bellied Starfrontlet (E) 5. Gorgeted Woodstar (NE) 6. Great Sapphirewing 7. (violet) Crowned Woodnymph 8. Brown Inca 9. Red-bellied Emerald (NE) 10. (Green) Crowned Woodnymph 11. White-booted Racket-tailed 12. Glowing Puffleg 13. White-booted Racket-tailed 14. Mountain Velvetbreast 15. White-vented Plumeleteer 16. Lazuline Sabrewing 17. Violet-fronted Brilliant 18. Violet-tailed Sylph 19. White-tailed Starfronlet (E) 20. Purple-bibbed Whitetip www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #hummingbirds #hummingbird #hummingbird_spot #hummingbird_moments #hummingbirdphotography #hummingbirdsofinstagram #hummingbirdfeeder

Red-ruffed Fruitcrow (Pyroderus scutatus) Family: Cotingidae Size: 33–38 cm (13–15 in) Weight: 220–280 g (7.8–9.9 oz) Wingspan: Approx. 50 cm (19.6 in) Lifespan: Estimated 10–15 years The Red-ruffed Fruitcrow is a striking, large passerine with a deep black body and a vivid orange-red throat and chest. It has a robust build, strong legs, and a slightly curved beak adapted for feeding on fruit. Males and females are similar in appearance, though males tend to have a more intense coloration. This species inhabits humid montane forests from Colombia to Argentina, typically between 800 and 2,500 meters (2,600–8,200 ft) in elevation. It prefers dense, mossy forests with abundant fruit-bearing trees. www.RetornoPhotoTours.com colombia #redruffedfruitcrow #continga #birds #birds_adored #birds_captures #birdstagram #birdsonearth #birdsphotography

The Red-headed Barbet is a recurring bird on our tours. He is good-looking, but he is sometimes difficult to expose as he deserves. www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #birdphotography #birdphototours #birds #birdlovers

The Andean Cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruvianus aequatorialis), a subspecies of this spectacular bird. Unlike its close relatives, this subspecies is distinguished by its striking bright orange plumage, contrasting beautifully with its black wings and tail. Found primarily in the cloud forests of Ecuador, southern Colombia, and northern Peru, this bird is famous for its elaborate courtship displays at communal gathering sites known as leks. At these leks, males engage in dramatic displays, bobbing, bowing, and calling in an effort to attract females. The intensity of their performances, combined with their vibrant coloration, makes them one of the most sought-after species among bird photographers and nature enthusiasts. At Retorno Photo Tours, we offer exclusive access to one of the best-documented leks of this subspecies, providing a unique opportunity to capture breathtaking images of these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. Join us for an unforgettable bird photography experience, where you’ll not only witness the Andean Cock-of-the-rock in action but also immerse yourself in the incredible biodiversity of Colombia’s cloud forests. 📸 Book your tour today and experience the magic of bird photography with Retorno Photo Tours! 🌿🐦#birdphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotographer #birdingphotography #colombia #birdphototours #birdsofinstagram

Yellow-headed Caracara, amazing an common raptor during our bird photography tours in Colombia. www.RetornoPhotoTours.com #retornophototours #colombia #yellowheadedcaracara #raptors #raptorsofinstagram

During our last photo tour, I took @glopez to discover a one-of-a-kind bilaterally gynandromorphic green honeycreeper with blue (male) on the right and green (female) on the left. The bicolored bird is a rare example of what's known as bilateral gynandromorphy, a phenomenon in which one side of an organism exhibits male characteristics while the other exhibits female characteristics. In birds, the cause is believed to be an error during egg meiosis (cell division) followed by double fertilization by two separate sperm. This is only the second recorded example of bilateral gynandromorphy in a Green Honeycreeper (Chlorophanes spiza), the previous report dating back to 1914. And in that case, it was blue on the left and green on the right. Say A paper on the research was recently published in the Journal of Field Ornithology. #greenhoneycreeper #gynandromorphism #birdphotography #birdsofinstagram #gynandromorph #colombianbirds #birdphotographer @new.atlas

Emblematic Andean Motmot. During our last private and exclusive photo tour with my friend @glopezespina we had some opportunities to photograph this beauty. www.retornophototours.com #andeanmotmot #andeanmotmotsofinstagram #motmot #colombia

Are you a Hummingbird addict? Hummingbirds from Colombia 🇨🇴 www.retornophototours.com 1. Long-tailed Sylph 2. White-tipped Sicklebill 3. Purple-throated Woodstar 4. Purple-bibbed Whitetip 5. Empress Brilliant 6. Buffy Helmetcrest (Endemic) 7. Tourmaline Sunangel 8. Blue-throated Starfrontlet (NE) 9. White-tailed Starfrontlet (Endemic) 10. White-bellied Woodstar 11. Purple-backed Thornbill 12. Western Emerald 13. Bronze-tailed Thornbill 14. Glowing Puffleg 15. Speckled Hummingbird 16. Velvet Purple Coronet 17. Tolima Blossomcrown 18. Sparkling Violetear 19. Green-fronted Lancebill 20. Fawn-breasted Brilliant

The most common hummingbird in Colombia is the Sparkling Violetear. This larger species can be aggressive towards other hummingbirds, yet it can also display a charming demeanour at times. www.retornophototours.com #sparklingvioletear #colibricoruscans #hummingbirds #hummingbirdsofinstagram #colombia🇨🇴 #birdphotography #birdphotographer

Colombia has suffered for decades from wildlife trafficking. Here, I bring you a picture of a yellow-crowned Amazon, another species usually purchased by buyers from Europe and Asia. This is a tribute to those people who fight every day to save species and protect them from this crime. Her name is Pacha, and she became alone after her partner was eaten by a predator. #yellowcrownedamazon #parrot #parrotlover #savetheplanet #savetheearth

Happy Valentine’s Day! Wishing you love, joy, and beautiful moments with those who make your heart soar. 💕🌿✨ Golden-plumed Parakeet www.retornophototours.com #goldenplumedparakeet #leptosittacabranickii #parakeet #parakeetlove #parakeetlovers #parakeetsofinstagram #birdsofinstagram #colombia🇨🇴 #birdphotography #birdphotographer

The Green-fronted Lancebill (Doryfera ludovicae), a true jewel of the Andean cloud forests, graced us with its presence during our emblematic bird photography tour. With its long, needle-like bill and shimmering green plumage, this unique hummingbird is perfectly adapted to feed on deep tubular flowers. Often found near streams and waterfalls, it perches motionless, offering rare yet breathtaking photo opportunities. Playing a crucial role in pollination, the Green-fronted Lancebill symbolizes the delicate balance of its high-altitude habitat. www.retornophototours.com #greenfrontedlancebill #doryferaludovicae #hummingbirds #hummingbird_spot #hummingbird #hummingbirdsofinstagram #birdphotography #birdphotographer #colombia

After some time without photographing this stunning Gray-breasted Mountain Toucan (Andigena hypoglauca), I can truly say — beauty like this is impossible to resist. Tour: Emblematic Birds #graybreastedmountaintoucan #toucan #colombia🇨🇴 #birdsofinstagram #birdphotography #naturephotography #andeanbirds #mountaintoucan

Black-collared Jay during our Retorno Bird Photo Tour. #blackcollaredjay #colombia🇨🇴 #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #tours

BEHIND the scene: Emblematic Photo tour Colombia with @glopezespina. Doing 2 of 5 things I really like the most (doing Bird photography with profesional photographers and sharing Especially Coffee from @housecoffee.ca) Tour: Emblematic Birds Colombia 🇨🇴 Coffee: from @housecoffee.ca #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #cockoftherock #birdphotographer #colombia #birdphototours #coffeeandbirds #phototours

A female of Andean Cock-of-the-Rock values plus 10 males—if you don’t believe me, you have to hear how crazy the males become after seeing a Female. Furthermore, if you have the female wet, you have to multiply by two. So, in total, this bird is valued at 20 the most beautiful birds. Tour: Emblematic Birds of Colombia. A beautiful photo tour with my friend Gilberto Lopez @glopezespina a incredible artist, discover his gallery in his bio. #andeancockoftherock #cockoftherock #gallitoderoca #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdart #birdfreaks

During the Emblematic Birds Tour with @glopezespina, we were absolutely thrilled to capture The Crested Ant-Tanager (Endemic), a truly enchanting moment that took us by surprise and was a wonderful gift from nature. #crestedanttanager #anttanagers #birdsofinstagram #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdtours #birdwatchingphotography #birdphoto

Seeing the Oilbird, also known as the “bird of the caverns,” was an experience I will never forget. I cried like a child, overwhelmed by the beauty and mystery of this incredible species. Watching them in pairs, around 20 birds in a small colony, was magical yet bittersweet. Their presence reminded me of how fragile nature is, constantly threatened by human activities. The name “Oilbird” comes from the bird’s historical use by Indigenous communities and early settlers who extracted oil from its chicks. These young birds develop thick layers of fat as they grow, allowing people to render the fat into oil, which was used for cooking and lighting lamps — similar to whale oil. The Oilbird (Steatornis caripensis) is the only nocturnal, fruit-eating bird in the world, known for its unique ability to navigate in complete darkness using echolocation, much like bats. Despite its past exploitation, it now symbolizes nature’s resilience and importance in biodiversity conservation. #tour: Emblematic Birds #oilbird #birdsofthewild #natureconservation #protectwildlife #oilbirdmystery #fragilenature #birdphotigraphy #biodiversitymatters #naturenistalgia #preserveourplanet #wildlifewonders

Collared Aracari showing his assassin tool. Notice his hook. #collaredaracari #toucan #toucansofinstagram #birds #birds_captures #colombia #phototoursdirectory #birdphotography #birdphotographer

Every day, new reserves are born in Colombia, and RETORNO is at the forefront of exploring these pristine locations. We not only identify unique species but also help organize the quality of their habitats and provide crucial advice for sustainable and profitable business practices. Here, you can photograph four species that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Among them are the Sooty Ant-Tanager (endemic) and the Black-bellied Wren. @laposadadelnyctibius Tour: Emblematic Birds. #sootyanttanager #blackbelliedwren #birdphotography #birds #birdphotographer #birdwatchingphotography #colombia🇨🇴

Barbets are remarkable birds that never fail to capture my attention. This time, the Emblematic Spot-crowned proudly poses for me in front of my lens. It's not an easy bird to photograph, but I relish the challenge of capturing its intricate details. Tour: Emblematic Birds #spotcrownedbarbet #barbets #birdphotographer #birdphototours #colombia

Crossing the central Andes to the Western Andes gives us many opportunities to see different toucans and toucanets in the Emblematic Birds Photo Tour. Contact us and organize your Photo trip to the most biodiverse country in the world. Tour: Emblematic Birds. #southernemeraldtoucanet #toucanet #toucans #toucansofinstagram #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdphototours

Some days, you are looking for birds like the Black Chestnut Eagle, but nature has something different for you, like a Golden-headed Quetzal. That's the way. Today, I recommend visiting @birdingfomeque as soon as possible. It is a beautiful place to photograph this species in its nest. Tour: Dazzling Birds #goldenheadedquetzal #quetzal #nestingbirds #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #birdphotographer #colombiatravel

In a few days, I will embark on an exciting new photo expedition across the breathtaking Colombian Andes. This journey, which I have aptly named Emblematic Birds, aims to showcase the beauty of majestic birds such as the Rufous Motmot. Be sure to follow @glopezspina for a glimpse into his extraordinary photography. Tours: Emblematic Birds #rufousmotmot #motmot #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotographer #birphotography #birdphototours #colombiatravel #birdsofinstagram #birds_captures

It's totally calm this Green Thorntail female pose for my lens in the last photo tour through the emblematic Andes. #greenthorntail #femaleempowerment #hummingbirds #hummingbirdsofinstagram #colômbia #phototours #birdsofinstagram #birdphotography #tours

Are you thinking to much…. Retorno Birding Colombia 🇨🇴 #Plushcap #birdingphotography #birdwatching #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdphototours #birdingcolombia #birdsofinstagram

Taking the lunch for a fiancée. Plushcap. Tour: Emblematic birds. #plushcap #birds #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdingphotographer #birdwatchingphotography #colombiatravel

Witness the stunning sight of the Black and Gold Tanager (Endemic) revealed during a gentle rain shower. Tour: Emblematic birds photo tour #blackandgoldtanager #tanager #tanagers #birds #birdsphotographer #birdsphotigraphy #birdwatchingphotography #birdphoto #colombiatravel

There is no doubt that some birds possess stunning beauty, while others simply cannot compare. Red headed Barbet. Tour: Emblematic Birds photo tour. #redheadedbarbet #barbetsofinstagram #birdsofinstagram #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdwatchingphotography #birdsphotography #birding_lounge #colombia🇨🇴

Some years ago, The Turquoise Tanager was tricky to photograph, but right now, Colombia has a wonderful reserve that puts this bird in front of you. Every day, new initiatives from locals are born and facilitate difficult birds. In this way, Colombia continues to become the first destination for photographers around the world, not only because our country is fantastic in Culture, food and people manners, but because in a photo Tour, you can do more birds than in another country. I am waiting for you. Tour: iconic Birds Photo Tour #turquoisetanager #tanagers #tanagersofinstagram #birdwatchingphotography #birdingphotography #birdsphotography #birdingphotography #phototour #colômbia

Pale-bellid Tapaculo, Endemic. It is a rare and difficult bird to photograph and acts like a mouse, scurrying around on or near the ground within the montane forests and scrubby areas from around 2,000 to 3,300 m. Bird Photo Tour, Colombia 🇨🇴 #palebelliedtapaculo #tapaculo #endemic #birdsofinstagram #phototour #birdwatchingphotography #birdingphotography

Every hummingbird has a singular power. Without a doubt, the Longuemare’s Sunangel power is the glittering violet, one of the most beautiful I have ever seen. Is it? Tour: Hummingbirds of Colombia 🇨🇴 #longuemaressunangel #hummingbirds #hummingbird #colombianhummingbirds #birdsphoto #phototours #colombia

Masked Trogon, some of these birds that are so good-looking and chill. Tour: Harpy Eagle Photo Tour. Season: July - September. #maskedtrogon #trogon #birdsofinstagram #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdsofcolombia #birdingcolombia #phototours

The Multicolored Tanager, an endemic treasure, captivates with its breathtaking colors. If you're a photographer capturing this stunning bird for the first time, ensure your camera is set up perfectly. The beauty of this moment deserves your utmost attention; otherwise, you may miss the chance to immortalize its brilliance in your photos. Tour: Emblematic Birds #multicoloredtanager #tanagers #birdscolombia #birdphotographer #birdingphotography #birdsofinstagram #phototours

Portrait of a wonder of Colombia 🇨🇴 The emblematic 👉Crescent 🌙 faced Antpitta during our last photo tour into the Andes Mountains.

Endemic, the Grayish Piculet is taking food for his growing family. #grayishpiculet #piculet #woodpecker #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdingphotography

Portrait: Fawn-breasted Brilliant showing his rose bowtie. Tour: Emblematic Birds. #fawnbreastedbrilliant #hummingbird #colombianbirds #birdphotography #birdphotographer

Make sure to check out the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, home to a wide variety of colorful birds, including the striking Blue-naped Chlorophonia. Tour: Colourful Birds Season: December to February. #bluenapedchlorophonia #clorophoniasofinstagram #birdingphotography #birdsphotography #birdersofcolor #birdsphotographer #birdingtours #birdphotographytours

A common bird, but difficult to photograph; why? Always on the ground, between branches and behind leaves. Here, it gave me a chance after many attempts, and I managed to capture it with my lens. These birds sometimes pass without attention because photographers always spend their time photographing Toucan Barbets, Glistering Green Tanagers, or Spot Crown Barbets during the Emblematic Birds Tour. I understand. Tour: Emblematic Birds #tricoloredbrushfinch #brushfinch #colombianbirds #birdsofcolombia #birdingphotography #birdphotographer #birdwatchingphotography

When you think of toucans, you have to think of the most emblematic Black-billed Mountain-Toucan, a king of the high mountains of the Colombian Andes. Tour: Emblematic Birds #blackbilledmountaintoucan #toucans #birdingphotography #birdsphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdsphotographer #birdphototours #colômbia

Black-and-White Owl during daylight is an excellent opportunity to catch up and photograph. #blackandwhiteowl #owls #owl #owllover #birds #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdwatchingphotography

It is very satisfying to photograph the Scaled Antpitta when it is eating its succulent worms. Tour: Emblematic Birds #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #birdingphotography #colombia #birdphototours #birdphotographer #scaledantpitta

Emblematic Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, one of the most looking birds in our tours. Colombia has the best spots for bird photography of this bird. Tour: Emblematic Birds. #andeancockoftherock #birds #cockoftherock #birdphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdphoto #colombian_birds

Cock of the Rock 🎸 One of the most good-looking birds for your lens. Tour Emblematic Birds #cockoftherock #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdphotographer #birdphototours #birdingcolombia

Imagine a movie created by birds, where the Crimson-masked Tanager would undoubtedly be cast as the villain, the killer, the evil character. Sometimes, showing a bird demands time of preparation; on this occasion, accessing this bird in a perch requires perseverance and determination. I have to thank Diego Rocha, a local guide who worked hard to get it. Tour: Iconic Birds #crimsonmaskedtanager #tanager #birdsphotography #birdingphotography #birdstagram #phototour #colombia🇨🇴

During our last photo tour, we didn’t expect to do a photograph of the Ornate Hawk-Eagle; but an unfortunate moment, when the eagle tried to hunt the rescued Yellow-crowned Parrot of Javier, gave us the opportunity to catch up with our cameras one of the most beautiful and emblematic eagles of Colombia. That was not easy, finding the correct angle took a while; @emilv_photography and I climbed a mountain to have the perfect perspective in front of this magnificent bird. The effort was worth it. #ornatehawkeagle #eagles #birdwatchingphotography #birdingphotography #birdphotographer #birdphotography #colombia🇨🇴 #phototour

During our last Photo Tour through the Colombian Andes, we had the most incredible opportunity to photograph the Ocelot, an emblematic wild cat 50 cm in size; his colour and patterns impressed me with how beautiful he can be. Tour: Emblematic Birds #ocelot #ocelote #wildcats #wildlifephotography #wildlife #wildnature #birdingphotography #birdphotography #colombia🇨🇴

One of the most beautiful birds of the Andes is the Emblematic Multicolored Tanager. I love sharing with you how my lenses capture and immortalize her beauty. Emblematic Photo Tour #multicoloredtanager #endemictanagers #birdingphotographer #birdingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdingdaily #birds_captures #colombia

It is not just a Spinetail; it is the emblematic White-browed Spinetail perched. Tour: Emblematic Birds #whitebrowedspinetail #birdingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdsphotography #colombianbirds #birdsofinstagram #colombiabirds #birdingtours

I am so happy doing one of the five things I most like: Bird Photography; on this occasion, the Emblematic Birds Photo tour with @emilv_photography and his wonderful Wife, an expedition with specific targets, all of them symbolic and exciting like White-mantled Barbet (endemic) and unique. Tour: Emblematic Birds #whitemantledbarbet #birdingphotography #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdwatchingphotography #birdscolombia #colombiabirding #colombiatravel

The iconic red-capped cardinal was a delightful surprise during our recent bird photography tour in southern Colombia. This bird left me completely thrilled as it showcased its stunning beauty. Just look at those striking orange eyes—aren't they amazing? Tour: Iconic Birds #redcappedcardinal #cardinals #birdwatchingphotography #birdingphotography #birdsphotography #birdphotographer #colombia #birdingcolombia

I present to you the Hooded Antpitta, the smallest Antpitta in Colombia and possibly the world. It is a total beauty. You could photograph it during our photo tour to the south of Colombia. Tour: Iconic Birds photo tour. Location: Huila - Cauca and Putumayo. #hoodedantpitta #antpittas #antpittasofcolombia #birdingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdsonearth #birdsphotography #birdphototours #colombia

Sometimes, the Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl give us total happiness. Tour: Iconic Birds. #ferruginouspygmyowl #owl #owls #owlsoftheday #owllovers #colombiabirding #birdwatchingphotography #birdwatching #birdphotography

During the past photo tour, one of the most desirable birds was The Iconic Deep-blue Flowerpiercer. It was not an easy bird, but all the effort was gratifying. Tour: Iconic Birds #deepblueflowerpiercer #phototour #birdwatchingphotography #birdsphotographer #birdingphotography #colombia

White-eared Jacamar. One of the beauties of Putumayo. Photo Tour: Iconic Birds Colombia 🇨🇴 #whiteearedjacamar #photographer #birdphotography #photographylover #naturephotography #photooftheday hotographer

Después de más de 10 días en el photo tour "Iconic Birds" por el sur de Colombia, quiero agradecer a tres mujeres increíbles. Su energía y profesionalismo hicieron de esta experiencia algo único. Las jornadas de 12 horas diarias, fueron intensas, pero cada momento valió la pena. Tuvimos la oportunidad de avistar y capturar aves raras e icónicas que todos querrían tener en su colección. Les comparto una de las tantas joyitas del viaje, Wire-crested Thorntail, o también llamado cola de Lira (𝘋𝘪𝘴𝘤𝘰𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘢 𝘱𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘭𝘢𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘪) @el.cielo.fotografia @pandionshouse @cprazzini @vickymeissner09 @abo_avesbogota #discosurapopelairii #wirecrestedthorntail #iconicbirds #birdscolombia #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdphotographer #birdingtours

One of the most desirable parakeets in Colombia 🇨🇴 is the Iconic Maroon-tailed Parakeet (Huila Parakeet). During of the iconic birds photo tour with Retorno Birding, we had the opportunity to photograph a whole family feeding. A magic moment one time in a life. #maroontailedparakeet #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdphototours #birdphotographer #colombia #parakeet #parakeets

The Crimson-backed Tanager is a highlight; our next expedition begins soon to the south. It will be a spectacle tour that explores Huila, Putumayo, and Cauca, a stunning tour that lets us photograph amazing birds, as I mentioned. Tour: Iconic Birds #crimsonbackedtanager #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdwatchersofinstagram #phototours

If I were to compile a list of 100 birds to see in my lifetime, the Ocellated Antbird would definitely be near the top. Tour: Choco Biogeografico. Colombia Soon, the new web page, www.retornobirding.com, #retonornobirding #ocellatedantbird #birdphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotographer #birdphotographersofindia

Don't forget to keep this in mind: The stunning Ruby Topaz Hummingbird is a key highlight of the Emblematic Birds Photo Tour. #rubytopaz #rubytopazhummingbird #hummingbirdsofinstagram #hummingbirdsofcolombia #birdphotography #birdwatchingphotography

Mom with babies. #torrentduck #birdphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdphototours #colombia

I have always wanted to take pictures of the bay-headed tanager, and on the Iconic Birds tour, we will have some opportunities to do so, which is great because I love this bird. Tour: Iconic birds #bayheadedtanager #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotographer #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdingcolombia #birdphototours #colombia

Bird photography in Colombia is like a Disney Land for bird photographers; more than 1950 birds guarantee that. Here, I present to you the iconic Yellow-browed Sparrow, which is found on the edges of rivers and in grassy patches. It was definitely a target in our expedition. Tour: Iconic Birds #yellowbrowedsparrow #sparrows #birdwatchingphotography #birdingphotography #birdingcolombia #birdphotography #birdphototours #colombia

Butterfly Coquette is a unique show indeed. Tour: Iconic Birds #butterflycoquette #colombianhummingbirds #hummingbirds #hummingbirdsphotography #birdphotographer #birdwatchingphotography #colombiabirding #birdphotographytour

Bronze-winged Parrot. Tour: Iconic Birds Colombia #bronzewingedparrot #birdingphotography #parrots #parrotsofinstagram #birdwatchingphotography #birdingcolombia #phototours

If you think that you have ever seen everything in this life, you are wrong; you forget visiting Putumayo, Cauca and Huila, some of the wealthiest places for birdwatching and bird photography in Colombia 🇨🇴; here you have the Rufous-tailed Tyrant, some of the most beautiful flycatcher, look his red eye, stunning, it’s t it? Tour: Iconic birds #rufoustailedtyrant #birdingcolombia #birdwatchingphotography #birdingphotography #birdphotographer #birding_lounge #birdphototours

This bird, the great Violacous Jay, is abundant in Cauca between the Amazon and the Andes; its constant calls can be heard throughout the day. However, capturing a picture of it is not simple as they fly above the canopy or blend in with flocks. Nevertheless, here it is in a typical anxious stance, prepared to take flight. Tour: Iconic Birds #violaceousjay #birdwatching #birdwatchingphotography #birder #birdingphotography #birdphotographer #birdphototours #birdingcolombia

Photo tour: Birds of Legend The Coppery-chested Jacamar has been classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation IUCN and poses a threat to the vulnerable species listed in the Libro Rojo de aves de Colombia. This indicates that this avian species is resilient, uncommon, and a prized find for birdwatchers and a valuable subject for bird photographers. #copperychestedjacamar #birdwachingphotography #birdingphotography #birdingcolombia #birdphototours #colombia #iucn #audubonsociety #bbcearth

Which country do you think has the largest number of Antpittas in the world? Yes, that’s right. It’s Colombia with 31 Antpittas. Most of them can be photographed in the right reserve. Here’s one from southern Colombia, the White-bellied Antpitta. These birds are known as the ghost of the forest, that nickname is due to how difficult they are to see, but in Colombia they can be photographed like a pro. Photo Tour: Iconic Birds #antpitta #whitebelliedantpitta #birdwatchingphotography #birdingphotography #birdphotography #birdphotographytours #colombiabirding #birdphototours #colombian_birds

Let me introduce you to the Colombian Violet Crown Woodnymph, a genuinely vibrant hummingbird that never fails to impress with its colours. 👌Tour: Colourful Birds of Colombia 📍Ubication: Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta 📆 Season: December, January and February. #crownedwoodnymph #sierranevadadesantamarta #colombiabirding #birdwatchingphotography #birdingphotography #birdphototours #colombiantours

🌍✨ Have you ever thought about returning to Colombia to explore our incredible bird diversity? You could come back at least nine times! Each visit lasts around 12 days and lets you photograph 50 to 100 different species—more than any other country! 📸 Plan your bird photography adventure with Retorno Birding: 1. Colorful Birds Tour: 12-16 days in Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. 2. Blue Bearded Helmetcrest Expedition: 5-day trek for adventurous photographers. 3. Emblematic Birds Photo Tour: 12-25 days exploring various reserves. 4. Chiribiquete Emerald Expedition: 5 days capturing the Chiribiquete Hummingbird and cultural experiences. 5. Harpy Eagle Expedition: 4-12 days to photograph the largest eagle in the Americas. 6. Hummingbird Photo Tour: 12-25 days in the biodiverse hummingbird paradise. 7. Chocó Biogeográfico Expedition: 12-16 days featuring rare birds. 8. Guianan Cock of the Rock Expedition: 8 days in a unique ecosystem. 9. Iconic Birds Expedition: 12-16 days for experienced photographers. 🦜 Save this post and share with your bird photography partners! We can’t wait to welcome you in 2025 for extraordinary moments together! 🌿📅 #RetornoBirding #ColombiaBirding #BirdPhotography #birdlovers #birdwatchingphotography #birdwatchers #birdingtours #birdphotographer #birdphotographyworld #colombia

The bird photography in the Paramo of Sumapaz, near Bogotá, is such a wonderful experience! It can be challenging at times, but the rewards are genuinely unique. One of the highlights is spotting the Rufous-browed Conebill (Near Endemic), a stunning bird that requires a lot of patience and a bit of luck to capture on camera. #rufousbrowedconebill #conebill #birdphotography #birdphotographytour #birdwatchingphotography #colombiabirding #birdingphotographer

Vamos en la búsqueda de la triple Corona 👑 este 16 y 17 de agosto al Páramo más grande del Mundo, SUMAPAZ. 1. Bronze-tailed Thornbill (E) 2. Purple-backed Thornbill (E) Y el Emblemático 3. Green-bearded Helmetcrest. Info: What’sApp +57 3052986006 #bronzetailedthornbill #hummingbirds #birdphotography #birdingcolombia #colombiabirding #birdphotographycolombia #birdphototours #colombia

The Band-winged Nightjar is an angel of the night, a nocturnal bird with spectacular camouflage. Let us take a photo session of it during our photography tour in the largest Paramo in the world, the impressive Sumapaz. #bandwingednightjar #nightjar #nightjars #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #birdphototours #colombiaphotography #birdsofcolombia #colombia

It doesn't matter where you're from; if you approach things with determination, you can achieve anything. Today, I'm celebrating my birthday with this lovely bird. I enjoy sharing my work with all of you. Thank you for being here, and if you ever visit Colombia to capture the beauty of our birds, thank you. We're always here to assist you in exploring my country, my culture, my people, my traditions, and of course, our birds. Discovering your authentic NATURE COLOMBIA. Bird: Apolinar’s Wren (Endémico) #grasswren #wrens #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdwatchingphotography #colombian_birds #birdingcolombia #birdphototours #phototoursdirectory directory

The Streak-throated Bush-Tyrant, a bird widespread in the Paramo ecosystem, is possible to photograph while the opportunity comes to us for photographing the iconic Green-bearded Helmetcrest, which is very difficult, and we need at least two days to achieve it. #streakthroatedbuchtyrant #flycarchers #birdingphotography #birdphotography #birdingtours #birdphotographytour #photographytour #colombia

A friend of mine, @cimarronmayor, one of the best photographers from the Dominican Republic, recommended I go to Fundación Grupo Puntacana, a place dedicated to saving and conserving Ridgway’s Hawk. The Local who received me was Carlos Suarez @suarezcarlosi, who not only showed me his work with Ridgway’s Hawks but also dedicated his time to taking me to photograph some other birds, like Broad-billed Tody, a bird that I really wanted to photograph a long time ago; I am very grateful, not only with @cimarronmayor but also with Carlos, good person, and very professional, without them, I couldn’t had doing these photographies. #fundacionpuntacana #puntacana #ridwayshawk #broadbilledtody #birdingphotography #birdphotography #birdtours #photographytour #birdphotographytours

Don't forget this amazing fact! The Acorn Woodpecker, known as Carpintero Payaso 🤡 in Spanish, is not only common but incredibly beautiful. You can spot and photograph these magnificent birds on many occasions during our thrilling expedition through Antioquia to Valle del Cauca. One of my favourite features of these birds is their stunning blue, checkered eyes. #acornwoodpecker #woodpecker #birdsofcolombia #colombianbirds #phototourism #birdsphotography #birdsphotographer

Look at the long blue tail of the magnificent Motmot Andino. Perhaps this bird is frequent and very common, but achieving this clean photo without more branches and leaves is not an easy task. In Retorno Birding, we know the ideal place for this photo, and you will get it in our Photographic Expedition of Emblematic Birds, of 12 or 16 days. #andeanmotmot #colombianbirds #birdsofcolombia #birdsphotography #birdsohotographer #birdsphototour #birdsphototourcolombia

A desired bird in our Emblematic Expedition is the great Green-and-black Fruiteater, and it is not for less. In addition to its magnificent colourful appearance, this bird has a beautiful story behind it. Many reservations want it for photographers, but only one can almost guarantee it in Colombia. On this tour, you will discover the essence of this magnificent person, a wonderful person who dedicated his life to attracting birds for us.

We love planning your dream Bird Photography Expedition in our country, the place that we know as the palm of our hand, the place where we live and travel around many times, where we know the communities, locals, reserves, culture, food, and the most important for you, where the birds are. Let me know what your bird's desire is, and we will work to give you the best options to photograph it. 👌 There are three types of Slate-throated Red Stars; if you have a red belly or an orange belly, please get in touch with me and collaborate on showing this beautiful bird from Mexico and northern Central America. #slatethroatedredstart #warbler #warblersofinstagram #warblers #birdsfromcolombia #colombianbirds #colombia #birdwatchingphotography #birdphotography #birdsphotographer #birdphototours

Colombia has 3 of 4 Helmetcrest, all of them are endemic, 3 are from Colombia and the other one from Venezuela. If you want to have all 4, it’s really a challenge, I’ll explain. 1. The easiest is the Buffy Helmetcrest, which you find in Los Nevados National Park, if you look carefully you will find it very quickly. But you need to go with a guide if you want to photograph it. 👉Season all year round. 2. Next, The Green Bearded Helmetcrest, you need at least two days if you want to take a good photograph of them. The difficulty is finding its place, understanding its behavior and trying to photograph , not is it a simple task, starting with the search. 👉Season June to August. 3. The Blue Beaded Helmetcrest requires 7 days of hiking in the Sierra Nevada De Santa Marta, a challenging expedition, due to the physical demands and also the task of photography. 👉Season from January to March, dry season. 👌I will doing a special expedition to have the third one The emblematic Blue bearded Helmetcrest, if you think you are in a good shape and want to have this beautiful Hummingbird, join me in January to catch a wonderful picture of him. 4. White bearded Helmetcrest from the paramos of Merida. #greenbeardedhelmetcrest #buffyhelmetcrest #bluebeardedhelmetcrest #hummingbirdsexpeditions #helmetcresthummingbird #hummingbirds #hummingbirdsofinstagram

The Green Thorntail has a Superman Shield on his chest, but on this occasion, I don't show it; I am focusing on the long blue tail. #greenthorntail #hummingbird #hummingbirds #colombia #hummingbirdsfromcolombia #hummingbirdsofinstagram #hummingbird_spot #birdwatchingphotography #phototours #birdingphotography

Without words…, I love my job. GETTING the Emblematic Crowned Woodnymph in this type of pose is entirely satisfying. Let me know which hummingbird you want to have like this. On our expeditions, one of the things we try to do is play with perches so that the bird is exposed and modelled in different ways, but this task is not easy at all; many of the birds do not reach the perch that hanks prepared for them and If they come, they only last a few moments. #crownedwoodnymph #colombianhummingbirds #hummingbirdsfromcolombia #hummingbirdspot #birdwachingphotography #birdphotography #birdingphotography #birdingphotographer #colombiabirding #birdphototours

The Shining-green Hummingbird (Near Endemic) is bright green with blue reflections on the crown and belly; I loved it the first time I saw it four years ago after the pandemic on a bird photography expedition, and since then, I can’t stop to take a photo when I see it on my photography expeditions. This hummingbird is a target for those Hummingbird addicts and is not for less; this hummingbird is a total jewel. #shininggreenhummingbird #colombianhummingbirds #hummingbirdsfromcolombia #hummingbirdspot #hummingbirdsofinstagram #colombia #birdwatchingphotography #birdingtours #birdphotographer

Which of these hummingbirds attracts you more? 1. The Emblematic Velvet-purple Coronet or 2. The Iconic White-tipped Sicklebill? It is very challenging to take a picture of both of them, and more so if you want to reflect their entire name; the first one because taking purple colours is not easy; if the camera does not have an excellent white balance calibration, you will be very disappointed with its colours, and the second one because you do not time to take a picture, besides where the heliconia flower is, is permanently dark. #velvetpurplecoronet #whitetippedsicklebill #hummingbirdsofcolombia #colombiabirdphotographytours #birdwatchingphotography #colombiabirdingtours

Starfrontlets are the most wanted hummingbirds for hummingbird addicts; Colombia has four endemics: 1. White-tailed Starfrontlet 2. Golden-bellied Starfrontlet, 3. Dusky Starfrontlet (the most difficult to photograph) and 4. Blue-throated Starfrontlet (close to being Endemic for Colombia). Three you can photograph in two different photo tours: the first one, Colorful Birds of Colombia (the Caribbean, including the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta) and the second, Cundinamarca Photo Tour. Let me know if you want to see all of them in pictures in the same publication. #bluethroatedstarfrontlet #hummingbirds #hummingbirdsofcolombia #birdwatchingcolombia #birdphotography #birdwatchingphotography #colombia #colômbia

Happy Father’s Day to all the amazing dads out there who not only excel in their roles as fathers but also find time to pursue their passion for bird photography! Balancing family, children, and hobbies is truly a remarkable feat. Wishing them a day filled with love, joy, and beautiful moments both with their families and their feathered friends. 1. Purple-bibbed Whitetip (NE) 2. Western Emerald (NE) 3. Brown Violetear 4. Chestnut-bellied Hummingbird (E) 5. Golden-tailed Sapphire 6. Lazuline Sabrewing 7. White-booted Raket-Tail 8. Purple-bibbed Whitetip, female (NE) 9. Violet-tailed Sylph 10. Sword-billed Hummingbird #purplebibbedwhitetip #westernemerald #brownvioletear #chestnutbelliedhummingbird #goldentailedsapphire #lazulinesabrewing #whitebootedrackettail #violettailedsylph #swordbilledhummingbird #hummingbirds #hummingbirdsfromcolombia #hummingbirdstour #hummingbirdsphotography #birdphotography #birdphotographer

Sometimes, in the natural world, females are not as good-looking as males, but in this case, I can say that both are very beautiful. This Violet-tailed Sylph has one of the most stunning tails I have ever seen. More than that, I want to show its shiny patch of feathers in her throat in purple colours. #violettailedsylph #hummingbird #hummingbirdspot #birdingtours #birdphotographytours #birdwatchingphotography #colombia

This magnificent Hummingbird boasts a deep green hue that engulfs all light, daring photographers to capture its stunning colors. Additionally, its purple bib often remains elusive, adding to its mystique. #empressbrilliant #hummingbirds #hummingbirdsofinstagram #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdphototours #birdwatchingphotography #colombia #birdphototourscolombia