Winged Jewels

Black-tailed Trainbearer by Kusi Seminario Behar Via Flickr: Colibrí de Cola Larga Negra Lesbia victoriae

White-eared Hummingbird by Adam Rainoff Via Flickr: In the verdant enclave of Villa Verde, situated at the gateway to Honduras's majestic Celaque National Park, I captured the essence of the White-eared Hummingbird, Basilinna leucotis. This bird, a symphony of nature's finesse, was photographed amidst the vibrant tableau of Central America's cloud forest, a region where every hue and cry of wildlife feels amplified in its purity. The photograph highlights the distinct white mark behind the eye, a characteristic feature that gives the species its name, and the subtle yet striking red of the bill that contrasts sharply with the bird's dark facial mask. From a photographer's standpoint, this image was a dance with light and shadow, requiring a delicate balance to ensure the bird's iridescent features were showcased against the soft natural backdrop. Employing a shallow depth of field allowed for the bird's intricate details to stand out, while the play of light accentuated the textures of its plumage. The challenge was not just to capture the image but to convey the story of this hummingbird's existence within the larger narrative of the ecosystem it inhabits—a story of coexistence and mutual dependence. ©2022 Adam Rainoff

Sparkling-tailed Hummingbird by Adam Rainoff Via Flickr: In the serene setting of Villa Verde, near the entrance of Celaque National Park in Honduras, I had the privilege of photographing the Sparkling-tailed Hummingbird (Tilmatura dupontii). The challenge of capturing this dynamic creature, known for its fleeting movements and stunning iridescent plumage, was an exhilarating experience. The bird's vibrant greens and blues stood out brilliantly against the lush backdrop, a testament to the rich biodiversity of the region. From a technical standpoint, this shot required a balance of patience and quick reflexes. I used a fast shutter speed to freeze the bird's rapid motion, coupled with a wide aperture to ensure a sharp focus on the hummingbird while softly blurring the background. This technique helped in highlighting the delicate details of the bird's feathers and its graceful poise. To fellow photographers, this image represents not just the beauty of wildlife photography, but also the satisfying challenge it presents in capturing nature's fleeting moments. ©2022 Adam Rainoff

Sparkling-tailed Hummingbird by Adam Rainoff Via Flickr: In the serene setting of Villa Verde, near the entrance of Celaque National Park in Honduras, I had the privilege of photographing the Sparkling-tailed Hummingbird (Tilmatura dupontii). The challenge of capturing this dynamic creature, known for its fleeting movements and stunning iridescent plumage, was an exhilarating experience. The bird's vibrant greens and blues stood out brilliantly against the lush backdrop, a testament to the rich biodiversity of the region. From a technical standpoint, this shot required a balance of patience and quick reflexes. I used a fast shutter speed to freeze the bird's rapid motion, coupled with a wide aperture to ensure a sharp focus on the hummingbird while softly blurring the background. This technique helped in highlighting the delicate details of the bird's feathers and its graceful poise. To fellow photographers, this image represents not just the beauty of wildlife photography, but also the satisfying challenge it presents in capturing nature's fleeting moments. ©2022 Adam Rainoff

Violet Saberwing by Nic Allen Via Flickr: Monte Verde, Costa Rica

Amazilia franciae by Daniel Vélez

I'm fine...? by Carlos Arriero Via Flickr: Así estoy bien? Ni te muevas!!! Colibrí en Selvatura (Monteverde Costa Rica)

Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, she turned into a beautiful butterfly. by Gylvana Teixeira Via Flickr: Green butterfly

Coruja by Rodrigo Souza

Beija-flor. Acho que ele estava com frio! by Tercio Esperandio

Fork-tailed woodnymph (Beija-flor-tesoura-verde) by Fabio Rage on Flickr.

Festive coquette (Topetinho-verde) by Fabio Rage on Flickr.