While the vibrant plumage of toucans and the piercing calls of macaws may steal the show, a quieter resident graces the mountain slopes of our Costa Rican retreat – the Clay-colored Sparrow. This small but spunky songbird might not be the most colorful, but its delicate features and unique habits make it a delightful discovery for birders venturing into the cooler highlands.
A Sparrow in Subdued Tones
As the name suggests, the Clay-colored Sparrow (Spizella pallida) boasts a plumage of light brown on its upperparts, transitioning to a pale buff on its underbelly. Streaks of a darker brown run along its back, adding a touch of definition. Unlike some sparrows with bold facial markings, the Clay-colored Sparrow presents a clean and crisp face. A white line stretches above its eye, contrasting with a dark eyeline that stops neatly at the front of the eye. A light brown cheek patch and subtle wing bars complete the understated elegance of this sparrow.
A Song Like a Buzzing Bee
The Clay-colored Sparrow might be small in stature, but its song is anything but meek. Perched atop a low shrub, the male belts out a distinctive melody that has earned it comparisons to a buzzing insect. This series of “Bzzzz bzzzz za za” notes is a characteristic sound of the shrublands and open areas that dot the Costa Rican highlands. If you’re patient and keep your ears tuned during your hikes, you might just catch this unique tune amidst the symphony of the mountain forests.
A Life Amongst the Shrubs
The Clay-colored Sparrow is a creature of the undergrowth. It prefers shrubby landscapes, field edges, and thickets, where it can flit between branches or forage on the ground beneath the protective cover. While exploring the higher trails of our retreat, look for these sparrows flitting about in the bushes or hopping on the forest floor in search of seeds and insects. They’re particularly active during the breeding season, which might be a good time to bring your binoculars for a closer look.
A Winter Flock Takes Flight
The Clay-colored Sparrow is a seasonal resident in the Costa Rican highlands. While some individuals may stay year-round, many migrate south during the winter months. During this time, you might spot them in flocks alongside other sparrow species like the Brewer’s Sparrow, Chipping Sparrow, and Lark Sparrow. Keep an eye out for these mixed flocks in open areas with brush or low shrubs during the winter season.
A Treasure of the Mountains
The Clay-colored Sparrow might be a subtle wonder, but its presence adds to the rich tapestry of birdlife that thrives in the Costa Rican mountains. So, on your next birding adventure at our retreat, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of this understated songbird. With a bit of patience and a keen eye, you might just discover the Clay-colored Sparrow flitting amongst the mountain foliage, its buzzy song a delightful melody amidst the tranquility of the highlands.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
