High in the lush embrace of the Costa Rican mountains, a symphony of birdsong fills the air. Amongst this chorus, a flash of olive green might catch your eye, flitting through the leaves. This is the Lesser Greenlet, a tiny songbird with a big personality.

The Lesser Greenlet, aptly named for its diminutive stature, is a member of the Vireo family. This little wonder, measuring just 10 centimeters (3.9 inches) in length, is a common sight in the lowlands and foothills of Costa Rica, from northeastern Mexico all the way down to western Ecuador.

While small, the Lesser Greenlet is a marvel of color and form. Its upper parts are a beautiful olive green, a perfect camouflage against the verdant rainforest canopy. But take a closer look, and you’ll see a charming surprise: a pale grey head contrasted by a bright white eye-ring. The underparts are a soft white, with a hint of yellow on the breast and olive flanks, adding a touch of elegance to its attire.

These little acrobats are at home high in the trees, flitting through the forest edges and the crowns of tall second-growth forests and semi-open areas. Their preferred habitat includes the mountains you call home here at our Costa Rican retreat, making them potential feathered companions on your hikes and nature walks.

Listen closely, and you might be rewarded with the Lesser Greenlet’s delightful song. Their call is a simple, high-pitched “tsee-tsee-tsee,” often repeated in rapid succession. It might not be the most elaborate melody, but it adds a cheerful rhythm to the rainforest symphony.

The Lesser Greenlet is an insectivore, expertly gleaning insects and spiders from the leaves and branches. Their sharp eyesight and agility make them adept hunters, flitting from perch to perch in their tireless pursuit of prey.

These tiny songbirds are monogamous, and both parents work together to build a deep cup-shaped nest from dead leaves and spiderwebs. The nest is typically attached by the rim to branches high in a tree, at least 10-15 meters (33-49 feet) above the ground. The female typically lays two brown-marked white eggs, and both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks.

The Lesser Greenlet is a welcome sight (and sound) in the Costa Rican rainforest. Their vibrant colors, energetic movements, and cheerful song add to the beauty and wonder of the natural world. So, the next time you’re exploring the mountain trails around our retreat, keep an eye out for this little green wonder flitting through the trees. With a little patience, you might just catch a glimpse of this delightful resident of the Costa Rican rainforest canopy.

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

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