A stunning photo capturing the Cuban national bird, the tocororo, in mid-flight with a praying mantis clutched in its beak, has earned Cuban photographer Yadiel Veunes Alonso the top accolade at the 2026 Digital Online Nature Photography Contest. This event is organized by the Gaviota Tourism Group and set against the backdrop of the Topes de Collantes Protected Natural Landscape in Sancti Spíritus.
The announcement of the winners was made this Friday on Topes de Collantes Cuba's social media platforms, where other honorees in the Flora and Fauna category were also revealed.
In this category, Veunes claimed the top spot, followed by Panamanian photographer Essdras M. Suárez in second place, Cuban Sandra Robaina in third, with a special mention awarded to fellow Cuban César Prado.
The winning image brilliantly showcases the tocororo (Priotelus temnurus), with its wings fully outstretched against a blurred black background. The bird's distinctive colors—blue-green on its head, white on its chest, and a vivid red on its belly—are on full display, along with the green insect in its beak, in a high-speed, exceptionally sharp shot.
Veunes dedicated his award in a heartfelt Facebook post to a deceased loved one. "Although this prize bears my name, it also belongs to you, my angel watching over and blessing me from above. Thank you, Topes de Collantes - Gaviota Tourism, for always being a welcoming home filled with love, and for the magic that captivates all nature photographers in Cuba," he expressed.
This achievement is no stroke of luck. Back in August 2025, Veunes had already published noteworthy photos of the tocororo after months of studying the bird's habits from afar, noting that capturing it in flight was one of his major goals for the year.
The Unique Significance of the Tocororo
The tocororo has been Cuba's national bird since 1982, following a resolution by the Ministry of Agriculture to outlaw its hunting and capture. It symbolizes national pride, as its plumage—blue, white, and red—mirrors the colors of the Cuban flag.
This species is endemic to Cuba, found only on the main island, Isla de la Juventud, Cayo Guanaja, and Cayo Sabinal, and cannot be sustained in captivity. It thrives in dense forests with tall trees, from pine forests to mountainous areas like the Escambray, the Zapata Swamp, and the Sierra Maestra.
An International Showcase of Nature's Beauty
The International Digital Nature Photography Contest features both online and in-person formats, with categories spanning Landscape, Flora and Fauna, Man and Nature, and Macrophotography.
In previous years, the in-person phase took place in October at Topes de Collantes, one of Cuba's most biodiverse natural spots, located about 20 kilometers from Trinidad.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tocororo and Photography Contest
What makes the tocororo special as Cuba’s national bird?
The tocororo is special because its plumage reflects the colors of the Cuban flag, symbolizing national pride. It is also an endemic species that can only be found in certain parts of Cuba.
Who organized the 2026 Digital Online Nature Photography Contest?
The contest was organized by the Gaviota Tourism Group, and it took place at the Topes de Collantes Protected Natural Landscape in Sancti Spíritus, Cuba.
What categories are included in the International Digital Nature Photography Contest?
The contest includes several categories such as Landscape, Flora and Fauna, Man and Nature, and Macrophotography, showcasing diverse aspects of natural beauty.