Bird Watching in Costa Rica

When birdwatchers die, they want to go to heaven in Costa Rica. Over 850 species of birds make their appearance in the diverse ecosystems here, many on migratory vacation from colder climes. The national bird of Costa Rica is the yigüirro (Turdus grayii), is a robin without the red breast, and is renowned for its melodious song. But the most spectacular native bird is the quetzal, a brilliant green cloud forest dweller with a wispy, 60-cm/24-inch plumed tail. These large birds (up to 35 cm/14 inches tall) are found only at altitudes between 1,200 and 3,000 meters (4-10,000 feet). They are most commonly seen at mating time between February and April, feeding in fruit trees, notably in Monteverde and Tapantí-Macizo de la Muerte parks. In the belief that they could not survive in captivity, they became a symbol of freedom in Central America.

 

Oropéndolas are the large black birds with yellow tails that build those fascinating pendulum-shaped nests you see hanging from branches. The nests look like woven Christmas tree decorations. And where would the tropics be without the symbols of tropical climates, the toucan and the scarlet macaw (lapa roja). The macaw’s vibrant colors begin with red and orange and then add yellow, gold, blue and green. Because of its beauty, and its apparently monogamous mating characteristic, it is prized as a pet. Export is illegal, but still this Pacific coast dweller – and its cousin, the green macaw in the Caribbean – are in great danger of extinction in the wild. The toucan’s big multi-colored beak is equally distinctive and a thrill to see.

Dedicated birdwatchers should pick up Birds of Costa Rica,by Gary Stiles and Alexander Skutch (Cornell University Press) or Travel & Site Guide to Birds of Costa Rica, by Aaron Sekerak (Lone Pine Press).