Here at our Costa Rican retreat, nestled amidst the verdant embrace of the mountains, nature puts on a daily spectacle. From the vibrant flash of the toucan to the melodic serenade of the wren, our grounds are a haven for an incredible diversity of birdlife. Today, we turn our gaze to a resident songbird, the aptly named White-shouldered Tanager.

A Tale of Two Plumages

The White-shouldered Tanager is a study in contrasts. This small passerine bird boasts a striking sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females look dramatically different. The male is a vision of elegance, cloaked entirely in glossy black plumage. But look a little closer, and you’ll see the star of the show: a bold white patch adorning its shoulder, like a miniature epaulet. This patch is what gives the White-shouldered Tanager its name and is a surefire way to identify the male.

The female White-shouldered Tanager takes a more understated approach. Her upperparts are a beautiful olive green, transitioning to a warm yellow below. Her head is adorned with a touch of gray, adding a touch of character. Despite their differing appearances, both sexes share a sturdy, pointed bill, a common feature among tanagers.

A Forest Dweller with a Flexible Diet

The White-shouldered Tanager is a creature of the forest. It thrives in the dense undergrowth and mid-story levels of rainforests and woodlands, preferring secondary growth and areas with plenty of vegetation. Here at the retreat, you’ll likely encounter them flitting through the trees surrounding your cabina.

These active birds are most often seen foraging in pairs or family groups. They’re not picky eaters – their diet consists primarily of insects, but they’ll also indulge in small fruits on occasion. This adaptability allows them to thrive in their forest home.

A Common Sight, But a Vocal Enigma

The White-shouldered Tanager has a wide range, stretching from Honduras down to northern Bolivia and central Brazil, with a healthy population throughout Costa Rica. They are particularly common on the Caribbean slope of Panama and the Pacific slope east of central Panama. Here at the retreat, located in the foothills, they are regular visitors to the gardens and forests.

While the White-shouldered Tanager is a common sight, its vocalizations remain somewhat of a mystery. Ornithologists haven’t documented their calls extensively, making identification by sound a bit of a challenge. But keep your ears peeled – with a little patience, you might just catch their song amidst the symphony of the rainforest.

A Glimpse into the Rainforest’s Tapestry

The White-shouldered Tanager is a fascinating little bird, a splash of black and white against the lush green canvas of the Costa Rican rainforest. Their presence adds another thread to the rich tapestry of life that surrounds our retreat. As you explore the trails and gardens, keep an eye out for these feathered gems – a flash of black and white might just be a White-shouldered Tanager flitting by, adding a touch of wonder to your Costa Rican adventure.

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