Described as rarely found, other than in remote or protected areas and given the status ‘vulnerable’ by the IUCN, it makes me happy to see the Great Curassow in Costa Rica.

These birds seem to be quite abundant in the tropical forests around the lake and Volcano Arenal. It was always a nice encounter, seeing them in the early morning hours, in pairs or small groups on the forest floor, when we drove the curvy roads towards La Fortuna.

I liked the idea to portrait this royal pair, with the hen in the foreground. I think her plumage pattern is just strikingly beautiful and it was a nice challenge to capture the elegant birds in Scratchboard technique.