As you wander the open trails of our mountain retreat, or gaze out across the pastures bordering the rainforest, you might catch a glimpse of a striking bird. A flash of red against the green, a bold contrast that sets it apart from its surroundings. This, my fellow nature enthusiasts, is the Red-breasted Meadowlark, a resident gracing the southwestern lowlands of Costa Rica.

A dapper fellow:

The male Red-breasted Meadowlark is a sight to behold. Unlike his more subdued female counterpart, he’s a true gentleman in a formal suit. Imagine a bird clad entirely in black, with a bright red waistcoat that extends from his throat to his belly. To complete the ensemble, a set of crimson epaulets adorns his wings. This striking plumage, particularly the “redcoat” effect, is the inspiration behind its scientific name, Leistes militaris.

A creature of open spaces:

While you might spot him here at our mountain retreat, the Red-breasted Meadowlark is more commonly found in pastures, cultivated fields, and moist grasslands. He thrives in open country, preferring areas with occasional bushes or fence posts. These elevated perches serve as his personal stages, where he delivers his melodious song.

A song to remember:

The Red-breasted Meadowlark’s song is quite distinct. Imagine a series of clear, metallic chips followed by a raspy, buzzing sound. This unique melody is a welcome addition to the Costa Rican dawn chorus, a reminder of the diverse avian life that thrives here.

A recent arrival:

Interestingly, the Red-breasted Meadowlark is a relatively new resident of Costa Rica. It wasn’t until recently that this dapper fellow colonized the southwestern Pacific lowlands. This expansion is likely due to the creation of open habitats through deforestation and ranching activities.

Spotting your red-breasted friend:

If you’re keen to see this charismatic bird during your stay at our retreat, keep an eye out in the pastures bordering the rainforest, particularly in the early mornings. Listen for his unique song, and with a little patience, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this striking visitor.

The Red-breasted Meadowlark is a vibrant addition to Costa Rica’s rich tapestry of birdlife. We hope this post has piqued your interest in this fascinating creature. Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we’ll explore another feathered gem of Costa Rica!

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

This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)