High in the Costa Rican mountains, where the air is crisp and the emerald canopy shimmers with life, a fiery visitor flits through the trees. This vibrant songbird, aptly named the Flame-colored Tanager, is a dazzling resident of our wilderness at Hotel Rivel.

For those lucky enough to catch a glimpse, the Flame-colored Tanager is an unforgettable sight.

Dressed to Impress: A Tale of Two Plumages

The male Flame-colored Tanager is a vision in red-orange. His entire body, from his head down to his underparts, is ablaze with this fiery hue, earning him his namesake. This vibrant color is a bold statement, a sign of dominance and health that attracts potential mates.

Females, however, don a more subdued outfit. They are cloaked in a sunny yellow, with olive green backs accented by fine black streaks. This camouflage allows them to blend seamlessly into the foliage, keeping them safe while tending to their nests.

A Life Among the Leaves: Habitat and Habits

The Flame-colored Tanager is a resident of the mountain forests that cradle Hotel Rivel. They prefer the cool, mid- to upper levels of the canopy, flitting amongst the branches of oak and pine-evergreen trees. Their movements are deliberate, with pauses to meticulously search for prey hidden amongst the leaves.

A Feast Fit for a Firebird: What’s on the Menu?

Primarily insectivores, Flame-colored Tanagers are expert hunters. They meticulously explore the leaves and branches, their keen eyes searching for caterpillars, beetles, and other invertebrates. However, they are not above indulging in a sweet treat. During fruiting seasons, they’ll readily supplement their diet with berries and other juicy morsels.

A Song of Fire and Fury: The Melodies of the Mountains

The Flame-colored Tanager is not just a sight to behold, but a songster as well. Their song is a series of gurgling phrases interspersed with pauses, a melody that resonates through the mountain air. This vocal display is believed to be a way for males to attract mates and defend their territories.

A Rare Encounter in North America

While primarily found in Mexico and Central America, with their range extending to northern Panama, the Flame-colored Tanager is a very rare vagrant in the United States. Birders across the border eagerly await sightings of these fiery visitors. Here, at Hotel Rivel, you have the unique opportunity to witness them in their natural habitat.

Witnessing a Flame Amongst the Emerald Embrace

For bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, a sighting of the Flame-colored Tanager is a truly special experience. Their vibrant colors, fascinating behaviors, and melodious songs make them a treasure of the Costa Rican mountains.

So, keep your eyes peeled as you explore the trails around Hotel Rivel. With a little patience and a keen eye, you might just be lucky enough to encounter this fiery flash in the emerald embrace of our mountain paradise.

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

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