The birds stalk prey, including fish, frogs, small reptiles and snails, in shallow, shaded water in forested areas. They often remain motionless on perches or in the water, or move very slowly. They rarely wade in open water.

The species is classified as near threatened on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List because of potential future habitat loss in the Amazon. Conservation efforts should focus on protecting important colony sites and developing a better understanding of the species’ range, habitat requirements and biology.

According to UNED research, the local community and property owners want to promote efforts to study and conserve the site as a refuge and breeding area.

“The presence of a concentration of this size is particularly significant because the agami heron is an uncommon bird that is difficult to observe,” UNED said in a statement.

In Costa Rica, most agami herons are found between August and November, primarily in wetlands along the Caribbean Coast in Limón Province and on the Osa Peninsula in Puntarenas Province.

The bird protection project led by UNED has expanded to include community participation. People who work on the property are learning to identify potential threats and adopt practices that help protect areas the birds use for resting, feeding and breeding.

Community leaders in Guatuso are also working to strengthen the bird protection project.

“We want communities to be part of their protection and for people who come to see the birds to understand that they are in a natural area that we must protect for future generations,” said Guatuso community leader Odir Rojas Gómez.

The high concentration of birds in a relatively small area creates opportunities for bird-watching tourism. However, authorities warned that efforts to get closer to the colonies could become a threat if the activity is not carried out responsibly.

Waterbirds are particularly sensitive to disturbances during their breeding season. The constant presence of people, noise or getting too close to nests can alter their behavior and cause adult birds to temporarily abandon the area.

“This situation can leave eggs or chicks exposed to falls and predators and, eventually, affect the reproductive success of the population,” UNED experts said.

The goal of the bird-watching tourism project is to allow visitors to observe the herons from appropriate distances without entering or disturbing their habitat.

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What actions should Costa Rica take to promote bird-watching tourism involving exotic species without negatively affecting bird populations?  We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com