Here at Hotel Rivel, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the Costa Rican mountains, we’re surrounded by a symphony of sights and sounds. Among the vibrant tapestry of birds that flit through the trees, the Blue Seedeater is a captivating sight, a flash of azure against the verdant backdrop.

This small songbird, also known as Cabanis’s Seedeater (Amaurospiza concolor), is a member of the cardinal family. Measuring a mere 11.5 to 14 centimeters (4.5 to 5.5 inches) and weighing just 12 to 15 grams (0.42 to 0.53 ounces), the Blue Seedeater is a delightful bundle of energy.

But don’t be fooled by its size! The Blue Seedeater is a marvel of avian elegance.

• Dressed to Impress: The males of the nominate subspecies are a sight to behold. They sport a stunning plumage of entirely slate blue, a color that seems to capture the essence of the clear mountain sky. The A. c. relicta subspecies boasts a slightly different look, with a more slaty hue and black lores (the area between the bill and the eye).
• A Tale of Two Plumages: Females, on the other hand, are a beautiful contrast to the males. Their upperparts are adorned with a rich cinnamon color, while their underparts are a warm tawny shade. This difference in plumage between the sexes, known as sexual dimorphism, is quite common in the bird world.
• A Song in the Mountains: While not the most flamboyant songbird, the Blue Seedeater’s melody holds a certain charm. Their song has been described as a series of sharp metallic chips interspersed with sweet warbling notes.
• A Seed-eating Specialist: As their name suggests, the Blue Seedeater’s diet revolves primarily around seeds. They are particularly fond of the seeds of bamboo plants, which are abundant in the forested areas they inhabit.

Finding the Blue Seedeater:

While not the most common bird in Costa Rica, the Blue Seedeater can be spotted by those with a keen eye and a patient spirit. They typically frequent forested areas, from the lowlands to the highlands, with a particular preference for foothills. They are often seen foraging in pairs or even as solitary individuals, flitting amongst the branches as they search for their next meal.

A Glimpse of Blue at Hotel Rivel:

The lush mountains surrounding Hotel Rivel provide the perfect habitat for the Blue Seedeater. With a little luck, you might catch a glimpse of this charming songbird flitting through the trees during your stay. Keep an ear out for their distinctive calls and watch for splashes of blue amongst the greenery.

For avid birders, spotting the Blue Seedeater can be a rewarding experience. But even for casual observers, this little bird is a testament to the beauty and diversity of life that thrives in the Costa Rican mountains.

So, on your next nature walk at Hotel Rivel, keep your eyes peeled for this sapphire gem. The Blue Seedeater might just be the next feathered wonder you encounter on your Costa Rican adventure!

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica

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