High in the Costa Rican mountains, where the air is crisp and the views are endless, you might catch a glimpse of a dazzling blue acrobat flitting through the air. This is the Tree Swallow, a beautiful and energetic bird that graces our skies during its migratory season.

While the Tree Swallow isn’t a permanent resident of our mountain retreat, it brings a touch of vibrancy during its visits. Here’s a closer look at this fascinating feathered friend:

A Dazzling Duo:

The Tree Swallow is a small songbird, measuring just 5.5 inches long. They come in a stunning two-toned plumage:

• Males: They boast a vibrant iridescent blue back that shimmers in the sunlight. Their underparts are a crisp white, creating a striking contrast.
• Females: While similar to the males, females have a duller blue hue, often appearing greener.

Both sexes have a small, dark bill and a slightly forked tail that helps them with their acrobatic maneuvers.

Life on the Move:

The Tree Swallow is a migratory bird, spending its summers breeding in North America and wintering in Central and South America, including Costa Rica. Here in the mountains, you can expect to see them from early September to late October and again from March to April.

Habitat Hunters:

The Tree Swallow thrives in open areas with water sources nearby. Look for them flitting over lakes, ponds, streams, and even pastures and savannas. They’re particularly fond of areas with tall trees, which they use for nesting.

Masters of the Skies:

The Tree Swallow is a true aerial artist. They have long, narrow wings that allow them to perform incredible feats of flight. They soar, glide, and dive with remarkable agility, snatching insects mid-air as they go. Their calls, a high-pitched “cheet” or “chi-veet,” add to the symphony of the mountain retreat.

Nesting Habits:

Tree Swallows are cavity nesters. They typically use natural cavities in trees or abandoned woodpecker holes. In some cases, they readily adapt to artificial nesting boxes, making them a welcome sight for birdwatchers who put up birdhouses.

A Glimpse of Nature’s Beauty:

The Tree Swallow is a fleeting visitor to our mountain retreat, but its presence adds a touch of magic to the landscape. If you’re lucky enough to spot this dazzling blue bird flitting through the air, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and the wonder of bird migration.

Keep an eye out for the Tree Swallow during your mountain retreat stay!

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

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