Hotel Rivel

A Crown Jewel of the Cloud Forest: The Wrenthrush

Costa Rica’s mountain ranges hold a wealth of unique avian wonders, and the Wrenthrush (Zeledonia coronata) is a definite contender for the title of most curious. Here at our Costa Rican mountain retreat, nestled amidst the misty heights, we’re lucky enough to have these captivating birds as frequent visitors.

A Misunderstood Moniker

The Wrenthrush’s name might lead you astray. Despite the moniker, it’s neither a wren nor a thrush! This little wonder belongs entirely to its own family, Zeledoniidae. Stocky and compact, with a remarkably short tail, it bears a superficial resemblance to both wrens and antpittas.

A Flash of Orange in the Emerald Realm

While their overall plumage leans towards a subtle, olive-gray, the Wrenthrush boasts a striking feature – a vibrant orange crown. This bright splash of color makes them unmistakable when you get a good look. Interestingly, both males and females share this fiery headwear.

Hidden in the High Places

Unlike some of the flamboyant birds that grace the lowlands, the Wrenthrush prefers the cool, damp embrace of the cloud forest. Here, at elevations between 1,500 meters (4,900 ft) and the treeline, they flit amongst the dense undergrowth, particularly favoring areas with stands of Chusquea bamboo. Their plump bodies and short tails make them perfectly adapted to navigating this tangled vegetation.

A Creature of the Understory

While spotting a Wrenthrush can be a delightful surprise, they’re not birds that readily announce their presence. These little denizens of the forest floor tend to be shy and elusive. Your best bet for catching a glimpse is to keep your eyes peeled as you explore the trails that weave through the understory. Patience and a keen eye are key!

A Song High in the Canopy

Despite their preference for staying low, Wrenthrushes are surprisingly vocal. Listen for their high-pitched, thin calls echoing through the damp forest air. These calls are a good indicator of their presence, even if you can’t quite spot the bird itself.

A Treasure to Behold

The Wrenthrush is a true emblem of Costa Rica’s unique biodiversity. For those lucky enough to encounter this little wonder, it’s a reminder of the hidden gems that lie tucked away in the emerald embrace of our mountain cloud forests.

Keep an eye out, and listen closely, on your next visit to our mountain retreat. You might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this crown jewel of the Costa Rican highlands!

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

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