Photographing the Three-wattled Bellbird in Costa Rica
Deep in the cloud forests of Costa Rica, a metallic “BONK!” echoes through the mountains. It’s a sound that stops birders and photographers in their tracks—loud, resonant, and unmistakable. This is the call of the Three-wattled Bellbird, scientifically known as Procnias tricarunculatus—one of the most sought-after species in the Neotropics.
Photographing this bird is not just about technical skill. It’s about timing, patience, and—above all—local knowledge.
Meet the Bellbird
The male Three-wattled Bellbird is instantly recognizable: a stark white head and breast contrasted with rufous dark body and three bare wattles hanging from the base of the bill.
But while its appearance is striking, it’s the sound that truly defines this species.
Its call—often compared to a hammer striking metal—can be heard from over a kilometer away through the rainforest. This powerful vocalization is used to attract females and deter rival males, especially during the breeding season.
Where to Find It in Costa Rica
Bellbirds are most reliably found in mid- to high-elevation forests along both Costa Rica’s Caribbean and Pacific slopes, where they sing and breed.
Some of the best regions include:
- San Ramon Mountains
- Monteverde
- San Gerardo de Dota area
However, sightings are highly dependent on the time of year due to their altitudinal migration.
Timing Is Everything
The Three-wattled Bellbird is a seasonal visitor in many areas.
- Best months: Typically March to July
- During this time, males move to higher elevations to breed
- Their activity peaks when fruiting trees are abundant
Outside of this window, finding them becomes significantly more difficult.
Why It’s So Hard to Photograph
Despite its loud call, the bellbird can be surprisingly elusive:
- It often perches high in the canopy
- Males may stay still for long periods between calls
- Dense foliage makes visibility challenging
You’ll often hear it long before you see it—and sometimes, you won’t see it at all.
The Role of Local Guides
This is where local expertise makes all the difference.
Experienced guides:
- Track fruiting trees the birds depend on
- Monitor territories and calling perches
- Understand daily movement patterns
At BirdnWild, we believe that behind every great wildlife encounter is a guide with deep knowledge of the ecosystem. In the case of the bellbird, that knowledge can turn hours of searching into a single unforgettable moment.
Plan Your Encounter
If you’re dreaming of seeing—or photographing—the Three-wattled Bellbird, the right timing and the right guide can make all the difference.
At BirdnWild, we connect you with local expert guides who know exactly where and when to find these incredible birds—while supporting conservation and local communities.
Ready to find the Bellbird?
Finding the guides who can show you the Three-wattled Bellbird is simple:
- Visit the BirdnWild homepage.
- Select “Find tours by bird species” and search for “Three-wattled Bellbird.”
- Browse the results to see all available tours offering sightings of this species.
Pro Tip: We recommend contacting your chosen guide directly through our messaging form. This allows you to confirm the guide knows the best photographing spot for the Bellbird.
Happy birding :)