Through remarkable dedication and skill, Cuban photographer Yadiel Veunes has managed to capture breathtaking images of the tocororo, Cuba's national bird. His efforts involved meticulous observation and study of the bird's habits, allowing him to photograph it with exceptional quality that highlights its striking beauty.
On his Instagram profile, Veunes described this project as one of his most challenging endeavors of the year. The tocororo proved particularly elusive, especially when in flight. To succeed, he spent numerous days observing the bird from afar, gathering valuable insights that informed his photographic strategy.
Veunes has developed a keen interest in studying animal behavior, an approach that has significantly enhanced the quality of his work. Looking ahead, he plans to focus on capturing images of other birds such as the merlin, cartacuba, and various migratory species, aiming to expand his collection of Cuban wildlife photography.
In 2022, residents of Miller, near Placetas, Villa Clara, were astonished to witness the presence of three tocoro birds, which typically inhabit forested and pine areas like the Escambray mountains. The tocoro is celebrated as the most beautiful endemic bird of Cuba and can primarily be found in regions like the Escambray, Zapatas Swamp, Sierra de los Órganos, the Isle of Youth, and the Sierra Maestra mountain range.
There are two slightly different forms of the tocoro in Cuba. The one found on the main island and nearby keys is known scientifically as P. temnurus temnurus, while the variety on the Isle of Youth is recognized as P. temnurus vescus. The bird was declared Cuba's national bird because its plumage bears the colors of the Cuban flag. In 1982, the Ministry of Agriculture issued Resolution No. 81 to protect it from hunting and capture.
This relative of the quetzal is also known by other names, such as "tocoloro"—a term used by many local farmers—and the Taino word "guatiní" in Eastern Cuba. To spot this bird, which often camouflages itself within the vegetation, one must listen for its distinctive onomatopoeic call "tó-coro," along with occasional hoarse barks, clucks, and murmurs, though these sounds are less common.
A pre-Columbian legend tells of a beautiful Taino woman who took her own life when captured. The goddess Atabey, witnessing her plight from the heavens, transformed her into the bird, which can only thrive in freedom.
Understanding the Tocororo and its Habitat
Why is the tocoro considered Cuba's national bird?
The tocoro is deemed Cuba's national bird due to its plumage, which contains the colors of the Cuban flag. Additionally, its protection was enforced by the Ministry of Agriculture to prevent hunting and capture.
Where can the tocoro be found in Cuba?
The tocoro is primarily found in Cuba's Escambray mountains, Zapatas Swamp, Sierra de los Órganos, the Isle of Youth, and the Sierra Maestra mountain range.
What challenges did Yadiel Veunes face in photographing the tocoro?
Yadiel Veunes faced the challenge of capturing the elusive tocoro in flight. He dedicated significant time to observing the bird's behavior from a distance to plan his photographic approach effectively.