During field research in Tortuguero, Costa Rica, I often encountered Collared Aracaris moving through the tropical forest. Although less flamboyant than some of their larger toucan relatives, I was drawn to their rich colors, expressive faces, and active social behavior.

In Offering, one bird presents a berry to another. I used colored pencil to emphasize the saturated plumage, patterned bills, and quiet interaction between the two birds. The shared offering creates a small moment of attentiveness and connection, encouraging the viewer to see them not simply as representatives of a species, but as individual animals engaged with one another.

The drawing reflects my memories of working in the forests of Tortuguero and my appreciation for the intricate relationships that make tropical ecosystems so compelling.