High up in the Costa Rican mountains, amidst the verdant embrace of the rainforest canopy, flits a bird as lively as its name – the Social Flycatcher. This little songbird, a member of the tyrant flycatcher family, is a common sight for our guests here at the retreat, flitting between trees and serenading the mornings with its cheerful melodies.

A Flash of Color in the Green Embrace

The Social Flycatcher is a small bird, measuring a mere 6.3 to 7.1 inches in length. Despite its diminutive size, it packs a punch in the looks department. Adults are adorned with olive-brown upperparts, contrasting beautifully with their bright yellow underparts. A stark white stripe encircles their eye, adding a touch of elegance. But the true showstopper lies hidden – a vibrant orange to vermilion crown stripe that peeks out when the bird is excited.

A Bird of Many Voices

While the Social Flycatcher might be small, its voice is anything but. These birds are true to their name, and their presence is often announced by a chorus of loud calls. Their repertoire includes a sharp “peeurrr” and a delightful dawn song described as a “chips-k’-cheery.” For our early risers, these morning serenades are a delightful way to begin a day immersed in nature.

A Family Affair

Social Flycatchers live up to their social moniker by being highly gregarious birds. They are often seen in pairs or small groups, flitting between branches and perching conspicuously on exposed twigs. Their gregarious nature extends to their nesting habits as well. They construct large, dome-shaped nests from grasses, twigs, and even bits of man-made debris, often placing them near beehives or ant nests for added protection.

A Bird of Many Hats

The Social Flycatcher is an adept insectivore, expertly hunting from perches and using a variety of techniques to snatch its prey. They might hover mid-air to glean insects from leaves, or take short sallies to capture them in flight. But their diet isn’t restricted to just insects. These versatile birds also enjoy a good helping of fruits and berries, making them a valuable disperser of seeds in the rainforest ecosystem.

Spotting the Social Flycatcher

The Social Flycatcher is a widespread resident throughout Costa Rica, particularly common in semi-open areas with trees, like the one surrounding our mountain retreat. So, keep your eyes peeled as you explore the trails or relax on your balcony. You might just spot this little ball of energy flitting by, its vibrant colors a flash against the emerald backdrop, its cheerful song a melody woven into the symphony of the Costa Rican rainforest.

Beyond the Mountains: A Widespread Resident

While the Social Flycatcher is a common sight in the highlands, its range extends far beyond the mountains. They can be found throughout much of the Americas, from Mexico and Central America down to large parts of northern South America. So, even if you don’t visit our mountain retreat, there’s a good chance you might encounter this delightful bird in your Costa Rican travels.

We hope this little introduction has piqued your interest in the Social Flycatcher. As you explore the wonders of Costa Rica, keep an eye out for this vibrant songbird, a true ambassador for the social and melodic spirit of the rainforest.

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

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