High in the Costa Rican mountains, where the air is crisp and the emerald embrace of the rainforest reigns, a fiery wonder flits through the canopy. This dazzling resident is the aptly named Flame-faced Tanager, a vibrant jewel that inhabits the lush, montane forests surrounding our retreat.

For the avid birdwatcher, or simply those who appreciate a touch of the extraordinary, the Flame-faced Tanager is a sight to behold. While measuring a mere 5.5 inches in length, this medium-sized tanager packs a punch in the visual department.

A Fiery Mask and Opulent Plumage

The Flame-faced Tanager’s most striking feature is, of course, its namesake – the face. Adorning the forecrown, malar region, and ear coverts is a vibrant mask of deep red. This fiery splash of color contrasts beautifully with the jet-black upperparts, which shimmer with an opalescent green sheen.

But the visual feast doesn’t end there. The crown and nape of the Flame-faced Tanager burst forth in a sunny yellow, creating a stunning color block against the red and black. The underparts offer a mesmerizing display of opalescent green, subtly mixed with buff tones. The central belly boasts a touch of pale cinnamon buff, while the flanks and undertail coverts take on a darker shade.

The lower back and rump add another layer of intrigue, with their opalescent golden hue that often shimmers with a captivating bluish tinge.

A Life in the Cloud Forest

The Flame-faced Tanager is a resident of the subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, making the mountainous heart of Costa Rica its perfect habitat. Here, at our retreat nestled amidst the cloud forest, guests have a fantastic opportunity to spot these dazzling birds flitting through the trees.

Primarily insectivorous, the Flame-faced Tanager joins mixed-species flocks as they forage for insects and other arthropods in the forest canopy. They also have a sweet tooth and will occasionally indulge in fruits.

A Glimpse of Fire in the Mountains

While not as common as some of its brightly colored tanager cousins, the Flame-faced Tanager is a true avian gem. With its fiery mask, contrasting plumage, and preference for the upper canopy, spotting one can feel like a delightful discovery.

For those visiting our mountain retreat, keep your eyes peeled as you explore the forest trails. You might just catch a glimpse of this dazzling tanager, a fleeting spark of flame amidst the emerald embrace of the Costa Rican mountains.

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