Last week I took a little vacation to Costa Rica. It wasn't truly a birding trip, but I did my best to make it one. ;)

Before the trip, I was leafing through my copy of "The Birds of Costa Rica." When I saw page 265, I thought, "I *really* want to see that bird!" Our guide said they were likely near Arenal volcano. I crossed all my fingers and toes.

And... they were there!

These birds ooze personality and are so curious. Some built nests. One near a lunch spot swiped a packet of mayo off the table. They watched us nearly as much as we watched them.

I saw many many birds on this trip - over 70 were lifers! But, these guys stole the show.

I also saw a Resplendent Quetzal in the Monteverde Cloud Forest! A "holy grail" kind of bird. Wish I'd gotten THAT picture, but he flew away too quickly. Guess I need to go back to Costa Rica soon. Oh, darn!!